Surrounded by a wealth of rare natural beauty, Chile’s capital, Santiago offers travellers the chance to slip effortlessly from the sandy beaches of the Pacific to the world class ski slopes of the splendid Andean Mountain Range.

Everything you could possible need is right there on your doorstep in this vibrant metropolis which boasts a range of all star hotels, economical bed and breakfasts, restaurants of every ethnic background, discos, clubs, museums, a theatre, malls, fun parks, a modern subway system and a whole lot more.

That’s one of the greatest perks of travelling to Santiago; this bustling city is conveniently located right in the ‘thick of things’.

Santiago is only 60 km away from the main South American ski centres, and an hour’s drive to the north west of the beautiful beaches of the Pacific.

The beautiful vineyards of Maipo Valley, which is one of the world’s most esteemed wine producing regions is just south of Santiago.

The city is bisected by the Rio Mapocho, which gently weaves through from East to West, before descending to the flood plain below.

The Mapocho marks the northern border of the city’s centre, which is defined on the west and south by the Via Norte Sur and the Avenida Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins.

This area is the cultural centre of the city where tourists can admire the major museums, monuments and architectural sights.

The Plaza de Armas is the very heart of Santiago, which lies along the Alameda about five blocks south of the river.

The Parque Forestal, which was designed by a French landscaper on the model of Parisian parks, highlights the city's European heritage.

Across the river, the Bellavista neighbourhood is the city’s culinary enclave, with the Como Agua Para Chocolate restaurant rating a mention for its unique part restaurant part theme park design, which was inspired by Laura Esquivel's romantic 1989 novel Like Water for Chocolate.

The Parque Metropolitano is Santiago's playground, where travellers can enjoy a peaceful day of relaxation with a leisurely stroll along the parks walking trails, yummy lunches in the picnic areas or an interesting look at the country’s wildlife in the regions zoo.

For stunning views of the city, visitors should head to the steps of the Virgen de la Immaculada at the top of Cerro San Cristòbal, which is accessible by bus, funicular, or by an energetic hike.