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Study Abroad in ChileStudying Abroad in Chile is available in a variety of different forms.Chile OverviewThe South American country of Chile stretches 2,800 miles from the Atacama Desert in the north to glaciers and fjords in the south. About 125 miles wide, Chile lies between the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Andes to the east. Although its population is mainly European in origin, there remains an indigenous presence a few hours south of Santiago. Gaining its independence from Spain in 1818, Chile’s agriculture and mining industries have helped Chile be an economically dynamic country from early in its history. In 1973, Santiago was the hub of the military coup that brought General Augusto Pinochet to power. While his 17-year dictatorship brought brutal repression to the country, today Chile is a prosperous democracy. Chile is well-known for its wines, skiing and beaches. Santiago de Chile - stretches across the fertile Santiago valley, 100km (62 miles) from the Pacific coast, dominated by the Andes to the east and a smaller coastal mountain range to the west. Santiago’s valley setting -- coupled with its being a modern city -- means that smog can sometimes cloud the view of the mountains, especially in winter. Santiago’s city center boasts modern structures, colonial buildings, lively markets, a colorful street scene along with great restaurants and nightlife. Traditional Chilean culture lives on in handicrafts of copperware, jewelry, alpaca woolen articles and more. Vina del Mar and Valparaiso – Just two hours from Santiago is the 'Garden City' of Vina del Mar on the Pacific coast. You travel through the wine country region to reach Vina del Mar, one of South America’s premier beach resorts. Not far away is the bohemian town of Valparaiso, unlike any other Chilean city! Vineyards of the Colchagua Valley – Most of Chile’s vineyards are in the Central Valley, where Santiago is located. Visits to the boutique vineyards of Chile, where you can sample the wines and find great meals, make a delightful day-trip from Santiago. Isla Negra: Pablo Neruda Museum – Chilean poet Pablo Neruda won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1971. One of his houses still stands on the coastal town of Isla Negra, and is a museum featuring some of his belongings. Nearby, you can also visit the village of Pomaire -- renowned for pottery, sculptures and handicrafts –- as well as wineries or a visit to the historic Colchagua Museum featuring pre-hispanic art and artifacts from the Chilean colonial period. The Chilean Lake District – A popular destination with beautiful lakes, forests and snow-capped volcanoes, this area boasts great fishing, sailing and rafting during Chile’s summer and skiing during winter. Portillo and Valle Nevado Ski Resorts – Many of Chile’s best ski resorts are only 1-2 hours from Santiago. Portillo is Chile’s best-known ski resort where many downhill ski records have been set. Whether visiting in summer or winter, you’ll have breathtaking views of Laguna del Inca. Valle Nevado, in the heart of the Andes, is the largest ski resort in the Southern Hemisphere. Amazing views, great skiing, crisp mountain air -- even spotting local wildlife -- are part of this experience year-round. Remember, Chile’s winter is during North America’s summer! 
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