So my first impression of Santiago was tainted by the fact that it was a national holiday. The streets were mostly empty. Stores were closed. Not much to do really.

We wandered around downtown, through a plaza and down a pedestrian shopping mall where we eventually found people. This cute dog started following us. The cynic in me figured it was because tourists probably feed street dogs more often than locals, so the little guy figured he could score a meal from us.

Eventually we came upon this triangular park. Essentially a steep hill with a castle-esque building on top, we climbed to the top - losing our travel companion. Pretty cool views from the top, though Santiago as a whole still didn't impress me much. Some cool older buildings - true. Distant mountains, yes - though I expected them to be closer and more dramatic (there is great skiing nearby apparently).

I convinced Kip to ride the subways, despite his insistence that we should just take a taxi. This debate permeates much of my international journeys. I don't take taxis in the US, and therefore why should I in other countries just because it's relatively cheaper? While traveling, I still try to be frugal, but as important is the fact that taking the bus is more genuine way to experience the culture.

I do understand the concept that it's emotionally "safer" taking taxis everywhere...but that misses the spirit of your adventure!

We took the subway (which was nice, modern, and clean) to the bus terminal (a behemoth twisting mass of terminals and shops) and were able to buy a ticket to Villirrica for the next day. Why Villirrica? My crazy uncle lives there for half of the year!