The Singular Santiago, Lastarria Hotel Merced 294, 8320000 Santiago, Chile

This neighborhood was expanded in the early nineties, when the first influential families began to migrate, leaving their spacious houses, which then were transformed into boutiques, restaurants and clothing or decor shops. Basically, it cover 6 blocks and is designed for those who are seeking exclusivity when shopping in Santiago. Furthermore, it brings together prestigious international brands and fine boutiques with unique accessories.

Start the day with a brunch in one of the many cafes in the Bellas Artes district. Stop at the museum Bellas Artes to admire its elegant 100 years old architecture and rotating exhibitions from all over the world. To enjoy a taste of the Chilean design go to the fashion boutiques along Merced Street. Address: Jose Miguel de la Barra 650; Telephone: (+56-2) 2499 1600. www.mnba.cl

This is the perfect spot for small celebrations. The place to meet for tourist and local wine lovers. It is situated just a few blocks away from the hotel in one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the city. Run by its owners and a well trained group of someliers who will guide you to a true wine experience. Their selection of 400 bottles of wine has been prized for third consecutive year by Wine Spectator as one of the best in the world. Address: Jose Victorino Lastarria 276; Telephone: (+56-2) 2638 9893. www.bocanariz.cl

This award winning restaurant, where innovative chef Rodolfo Guzmán has brought the endemic flavors of Chile to life for four years in Santiago´s most creative tradition-oriented kitchen. This is definitely a must in Santiago´s visit. Here you will find Chile´s endemic ingredients and often unique to this corner of the world. Berries from Patagonia, Fis h from Easter Island and herbs from Santiago´s mountainsides, makes this wild, rustic and innovative kitchen an incredible gastronomic experience. Address: Av. Nueva Costanera 3467; Telephone: (+56-09) 9538893. www.borago.cl

This neighborhood has a medieval like street plan, whose design was influenced by the ideas of Camilo Sitte. The houses are built on the former site of the Diaz Gana Palace´s Park, which was divided into lots in 1915. The districts boundaries are defined by Brasil Ave., Ave. Libertador Bernardo O´Higgins, Cumming Ave., Romero Street, Maturana Street and Erasmo Escala Street.

This is the classical continental institution of renowned chef Carlos Meyer who started Santiago culinary´s revolution 20 years ago. He turned-out some of the Santiago´s finest food, prepared in the classic styles of Europe´s great kitchens. Address: Alonso de Córdova 2417, Vitacura; Telephone:(+56-2) 208 3603. www.europeo.cl

Alpaca shawls are very good quality, normally made in Perú, after 5 or 10 years they are still good. Lapis Lazuli is an endemic mineral only found in Chile. It is possible to find good quality in the Bellavista Neighborhood and the duty free airport shops. Other very nice souvenirs are the wooden bowls made of native wood. These are typical of the south but can be found in most places which sell handcrafts in Santiago.

Just few blocks away from the Hotel, near to Mapocho River stop by the Mercado Central to admire the fresh seafood and enjoy a classic Chilean seafood dish at one of the small restaurants on its periphery. The historic barrios Yungay & Brazil, home to some of the city´s most attractive and interesting architecture, and a melting pot for Santiago´s young bohemian artists and musicians, is part of Santiago´s most romantic streets. Alternatively, for shopping galleries and the highest concentration of street art, wander the quiet streets where Pablo Neruda kept on of his three houses.

If you want to know a little bit more about Chile´s recent history, this is an unmissable visit. By subway to the Quinta Normal station (Line 5), you will find the stunning modern structure of the newly inaugurated Museum of Memory, documenting the history of Chile under the Pinochet regime from 1973 to 1990.
Address: Matucana 501; Telephone: (+56-2) 2365 1651

This is the highest View Point in Latinamerica. At 300 meters, Sky Costanera has the most impressive 360° view of the City. This is world class experience, where you can see the city with new eyes and feel the world at your feet. This attraction is open everyday from Monday to Sunday from 10:00 to 22:00 hrs. www.skycostanera.cl

This Valley is close enough to Santiago for a Day Trip, but far enough to feel fully immersed in a deep-rooted wine country. Covering an area highly celebrated for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrahs and Cermeneres. Along the way, stop at Neyen Winery to sip their signature Bordeaux style blend and sit down for a gourmet lunch at family run Viu Manet Winery or admire the architectural beauty of LaPostolle´s cellar. www.upscapetravel.com