Bellavista

wall artwork in Bellavista

By Zenan Delaney

Host to the zoo, Cerro San Cristobel and La Chascona (The Santiago home of Pablo Neruda) the area itself is a tourist attraction of Santiago. The area is adorned with some beautiful architecture and is full of life, both night and day. Every kind of restaurant and bar are strewn through the streets and with many gay friendly places, the barrio is the gay center of the capital. Nightclubs and discos spring to life in the evenings that are popular with both locals and tourists. The Cable car and Funicular located on San Cristobel Hill gives a great view of the city, at an affordable price. Bella vista (meaning beautiful view) is a place to spend the whole day and enjoy the ambience. If staying for the nightlife, avoid crossing the bridges to Providencia after midnight unless in large groups, as there can be security issues, taxis are a wise choice. There are many craft shops and stalls in the area which remain open into the evening, selling the famous lapis-lazuli and Chilean copper.