My favorite place in Viña del Mar has got to be the beach. There are several sections to it, each with their own unique aspects. As we are never more than a 5 minute walk from the coast, we often go to the beach just in between classes or to catch the sunset quick before getting dinner or as a spot to hang out during the day. There are always several groups of people hanging out at the beach as well as it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It is my favorite place because it’s a nice spot to escape the city a little bit and enjoy the breeze off of the ocean and the sunshine on your face.
We have taken a few class field trips, particularly in the beginning of the semester. We went to the neighboring city, Valparaiso, and did a walking tour there. There were also opportunities to go to a soccer game and other outings as well.
My friends and I have gone on several trips on our own however. We have been to La Serena and the Elqui Valley — a region north of Viña by about 6 hours that is renown for some of the clearest night skies in the world. We have crossed the Andes into Mendoza, Argentina and spent a weekend touring the beautiful countryside and sampling some of their famous Malbec wines. We’ve spent a weekend in Santiago as well, visiting the several art and cultural museums and touring the plazas. There is so much to see and do in Chile, it’s just a matter of finding the time — and money!!
