Travel Tips From the End of the World

Okay lots of professional development talk lately.

Yes- it’s a big part of my life and my passion is truly connecting with people. However, this can be done outside of the networking space and all over the world. Which is another true love of mine… travel. 

I didn’t want to be too preachy about traveling and seeing the world after I got back from my recent-ish backpacking adventures, because I understand how a) annoying that can be and b) what a privilege it is to experience. 

But, as travel and global adventure are key aspects of who I am, with my experiences and connections abroad playing major roles in my personal and professional goals, I feel like it’s time I share a bit more about this part of my life with you! 

(This is also as close as I will get (right now) to achieving my childhood dream of writing for Nat Geo)

I must say, this adventure took months of saving and planning and turned out to be one of the most life changing experiences- which is a moment of pride I hold with myself for the rest of my life. If Chilé is not on your bucket list- I hope this post changes your mind! 

Enjoy my travel tips from the end of the world!

PATAGONIA 

1. The O or W Trek’s when visiting are ESSENTIAL. You have options to sleep in cabins, mini hotels, and tents, food is available along the trail, and trails are extremely well marked. The views are emotion evoking and completing the difficult trek is one of the most rewarding experiences you can offer yourself. I went with an incredible company called ChileTour Patagonia who arranged transportation to and from the airport, amazing meals at all points of the trek, and amazing guidance and instructions prior to the hike (oh and a hot tub for your use before and after your trek!). I had the utmost incredible experience as a solo traveler all thanks to them.

2. Hiking in Patagonia? Here are some things I didn’t bring… but I wished I had! MUST PACL for your trek: Baby wipes, bug spray, powdered coffee, extra socks, power bank, winter hat and baseball cap, towel, binoculars, wind breaker

3. Puerto Natales will be your starting point for your Patagonian adventure! This small town is truly at the end of the world, and is one of the final destinations before you reach Antarctica. The weather changes extremely quickly, so I would highly recommend taking advantage of exploring the town on a rainy day when you can pop in and out of shops and try incredible restaurants (Patagonian lamb is INCREDIBLE).

CHILOÉ

1. RENT. A. CAR. yes it’s an island, but boy is it a big one! You can get around by bus with tour groups and public transit, but for more reliable transit times, rent a car! This will allow you to explore all that the island(s) have to offer, the incredible culture of Chiloé, amazing seafood, and incredible nature. Most notably the palafitos (stilt homes) and Parque Nacional Chiloé!

2. English is not the most widely spoken language in most of the remote areas on the island, so it may be a good idea to brush up on your spanish! Extremely friendly locals, but very different vibes from mainland Chilé, which is such a unique experience! 

3. TOURIST TRAP (in my opinion)- many of the tour groups take you to a lookout point called ‘witches point’ for a costly photo op experience. You simply are paying for a picture with a broomstick- maybe I’ve been off instagram too long to see the vision! Keep in mind when you arrive and they ask you to pay for entry, you can simply decline and take in the beautiful view from the parking lot! 

PUERTO VARAS

1. Don’t be afraid to explore beaches outside of the city (i.e., Ensenada just over 45 minutes away), the main beach in the city is packed with tourists and boats- not the most ideal place for a beach walk or swim. The city is quite busy with tourists, to escape the crowds it is best to explore what is just outside of town! 

2. Want the best view of the array of snow capped volcanoes this region has to offer? GO RAFTING! The beautiful Petrohué River weaves its way through the volcanos while you get splashed with refreshing cool water! Highly would recommend adventuring with Alsur Expediciones, a very reliable tour group that serves hot coffee and tea with snacks after you are done with your time on the river! 

3. EXPENSIVE… this town knows it is a gem for tourists, and the restaurants price their food accordingly. For fellow budget travelers- your best friends will be the local markets and grocery stores- keep in mind getting an airbnb or hostel with a partial/full kitchen!

FRUTILLAR

1. For short visits, very much a weekend town- get your fix of the volcano view, delicious cafes and German influence of this quaint cute town! The safety and security of a small town vibe, but with lots to do!

2. Visit Teatro del Lago- a beautiful modern theater with incredible plays and shows, oh and Volcano Orsono!

3. Flying in- you will land at the Puerto Montt airport, which is just under an hour drive. I would recommend either renting a car or if your flight arrives later in the evening, hiring a driver as the country roads twists and turns mixed with unfamiliarity may be difficult to navigate in the dark!

SANTIAGO

1. FREE activity within the city- visit all of Santiago’s beautiful parks (i.e., Parque Bicentenario, Araucano park, Cerro Santa Lucía (but don’t go here at night!!), etc.)

2. Not really travel advice, just my favourite barrios- must visit neighborhoods within the incredible city located in the heart of the Andes mountains! Specifically areas I would spend time alone as a female solo traveler and felt safe.  Barrio Italia, Las Condes, and Vitacura (just to name a few!).

3. You are not completo without trying a completo! A must-try Chilean take on the hot dog- trust me you will want to hike Patagonia 10x over after getting your hands on these dangerous dogs (que the most mayo you will ever eat in your life!!). Ask for “uno completo italiano por favor” and thank me later!