Vina del Mar—Valparaíso, nestled on the Pacific coast to the west of the capital, Santiago, is a charming city known as the “Garden City.” It is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush gardens, luxurious resorts, and vibrant cultural scene. The name “Vina del Mar,” which translates to “vineyard of the sea,” reflects its early history of grape cultivation, with the urban and coastal areas designed in a picturesque southern European style.

The city is a hub for international music, film, and art festivals, drawing artists and tourists from around the globe.

I’ve had the pleasure of exploring most of Chile’s main attractions, with one notable exception: Easter Island. While the idea of seeing the iconic stone statues was tempting, the thought of an additional six-hour flight just for the scenery made me reconsider. In the end, I decided it wasn’t worth the extra travel. But rest assured, you can still find plenty of fascinating stone statues scattered throughout the other parts of Chile, adding a touch of mystery and history to your journey! 😂





