Modern Day Santiago: A Global City with a Low Profile

Posted in Modern Culture, Santiago by www.artourismchile.com on August 30th, 2010

When you think about global cities across the world, perhaps Santiago, Chile, isn’t the first locale to cross your mind. This better reflects Santiago’s status as a hidden gem on the worldwide stage as opposed to any shortcomings or inadequacies you might expect from the lesser known metropolitan area. Without the profile of New York or London, visitors can enjoy the bountiful attractions and resources the city has to offer without having to fight through throngs of tourists.Santiago is Chile’s capital and largest city, with a population of more than 5 million, located in the country’s central valley. With a storied history dating back to the 1540′s, one might expect a city like Santiago to be defined by the old world, both in look and feel. Quite to the contrary, Santiago boasts a full range of new age technology and first class amenities. The Andes Mountains set a picturesque backdrop for the city’s skyline, highlighted by modern high-rise architecture. The skyline continues to expand, with construction currently underway on Gran Torre Costanera, a towering skyscraper that is planned to rise for 984 feet, which will make it the tallest office building in all of South America when it opens in 2011. The city also enjoys a functional and still expanding underground rapid transportation network, Santiago Metro, similar to what you would find in most major U.S. cities.Extensive development throughout the area has helped Santiago achieve elite status as a financial and industrial hub, not to mention headquarters for many multinational corporations, but that’s not to say Santiago is all work and no play. After all, the Andes do more than accentuate the skyline, serving as mountain playground for Santiago’s residents and visitors. The easy access to top notch ski resorts is one of many draws to the Greater Santiago area.