Spring has sprung in Chile while us at home shift toward fall in search of scenic mountain roads, vibrant foliage photo-ops, and anything pumpkin.
Who am I kidding?
Every season is beach season for Americans, which is why much of South America makes for an epic fall adventure from Colombia, Brazil, and yes, even Chile.
That being said, the U.S. Embassy recently issued a new travel security alert for Americans visiting this vastly underrated country brimming with awesome beaches, astounding culture, and far less crowds than your run-of-the-mill South American vacation.
The Embassy’s new alert covers 3 specific regions tourists should be extra wary of when visiting, although the U.S. State Department still has Chile listed as’ Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution‘ as of today.
Chile Is Kinda Awkward, Yet Incredible to Visit
Chile might just be the most awkwardly shaped country in the world.
One could wonder if Chile is Exhibit A for Saudi Arabia’s vision of the much-hyped ‘The Line’. Stretching 2,653 miles north to south, and just 276 miles across at its longest width, Chile is truly one of a kind.
Although unique, Chile still manages to fly well under the radar.
In fact, its biggest claim to fame might be shared with its neighbor, Argentina, who, like Chile, recently received a travel security alert of their own.
Sharing is caring, I suppose…
Patagonia may be the big draw, except for those who just wear Patagonia-branded zip-ups to impress their frat bros, but yes, it’s a real place and incredible at that!
However, there’s much more to explore beyond glacial fjords and staggering mountains; travelers should definitely check out their own slice of paradise along the beautiful 4,000 miles of coastline.
And for those impromptu mathematicians who think they caught me slippin’ – yes, there is more coastline than there is north-to-south distance, including the very mysterious Easter Island! 🗿🗿🗿
Vibrant Valparaiso: Chile’s Top Beach City
Valparaiso translates to “Valley of Paradise”, and it is paradise indeed. Well, except for the recent uptick in violent crimes…
The U.S. Embassy is warning Americans about visiting Valparaiso, one of the 3 regions of Chile seeing a discomforting amount of robberies and assaults.
Perched along some of the prettiest waters in the nation and oozing European vibes dating back to its heyday as an immigration hotspot, you won’t be able to resist the temptation to explore all the sites.
Just keep your head on a swivel at all times, but particularly at night.
Like Argentina, the Embassy reports that bars and nightclubs are common targets for “spike” unsuspecting tourists’ drinks.
Vina Del Mar: Valparaiso’s Stunning Coastal Neighbor
Practically next to Valparaiso is the lovely seaside town of Vina Del Mar, home to one of the area’s top attractions: the historical Wulff Caste, which overlooks the South Pacific Ocean.
However, the gorgeous beaches are more enticing as they’re less crowded than Valaparaiso city beaches, where locals hang loose.
Although pretty, don’t let the looks fool you. Crime is running rampant here too.
Good news is there’s a multitude of nice beachfronts hotels here to keep safe as Vina Del Mar is known more as a “resort city” per se.
For something familiar, check out the Sheraton Miramar Hotel & Convention Center under $200 per night this fall.
Santiago: Chile’s Sprawling Capital City
Most Western travelers’ gateway into Chile will be through the sprawling city of Santiago, Chile’s capital, filled with modern urban explorations and cultural delights as a vastly underrated foodie destination.
A mix of old and new, right now, travelers should be focused on getting here safely.
Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport is conveniently located to the city, but also just so happens to be immediately surrounded by a dangerous neighborhood with high criminal activity as of late.
So, what’s a traveler to do?
Your best bet is to plan ahead, book reliable transportation, and avoid renting a car.
Why? Because rental cars are tagged with stickers, making them easily identifiable by criminals seeking out tourists.
Once you arrive safely, it’s also important to know pickpocketing is widespread, including in popular tourist areas, so it’s best to secure valuables at all times.
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