From Cusco to Santiago: Swapping Ancient Ruins for Urban Chic

After our incredible time in Cusco, it was time for the next leg of our adventure—Santiago, Chile. We swapped misty mountain views and ancient ruins for sleek cityscapes, buzzing neighborhoods, and a bit of luxury at the W Hotel. It felt like stepping into a completely different world, but that’s what we love about traveling—every destination has its own unique rhythm.

Leaving the Andes Behind

Flying out of Cusco, I couldn’t help but glance out the window for one last look at the mountains. Those peaks had been our companions for days, and it was bittersweet to leave them behind. But Santiago was calling, and we were ready to experience everything this modern South American city had to offer.

Our flight took us over breathtaking landscapes—snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, and finally, the sprawling metropolis of Santiago nestled against the backdrop of the Andes.

Arriving at the W Hotel: A Slice of Urban Luxury

The W Hotel in Santiago is everything you’d expect—modern, stylish, and effortlessly cool. After days of trekking through ruins and soaking in ancient history, it was nice to indulge in a bit of luxury. The lobby had that chic, minimalist vibe, and the staff welcomed us with warm smiles and a cocktail in hand.

Our room was stunning—a mix of sleek design and cozy touches, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the city and the Andes in the distance. Marc was already scouting the rooftop pool, while I admired the in-room espresso machine (priorities, right?).

Exploring Santiago

Santiago is a vibrant city that feels like a blend of old-world charm and cutting-edge modernity. We strolled through the tree-lined streets of the Las Condes district, where the W is located. It’s an upscale neighborhood filled with chic cafés, designer boutiques, and some seriously impressive restaurants.

We couldn’t resist heading over to Barrio Lastarria, one of Santiago’s artsy districts, full of street performers, independent galleries, and colorful markets. The energy of the city was infectious—completely different from Cusco’s serene vibe but just as captivating.

Sunsets and Cocktails at the W Rooftop

One of the highlights of our stay was the rooftop at the W Hotel. The pool area turns into a buzzing cocktail bar in the evenings, with the city lights twinkling below and the Andes glowing in the sunset. We sipped on Pisco Sours (because when in Chile!) and watched the sky turn shades of pink and orange over the mountains.

Marc was in heaven, taking photos of the cityscape while I just soaked it all in. It was one of those perfect moments where time seems to slow down.

A Taste of Santiago

Santiago’s food scene is something else. We discovered everything from traditional Chilean empanadas and fresh seafood at the Mercado Central to contemporary fusion cuisine at a stylish rooftop restaurant. Chilean wine was, of course, a big part of our experience—especially a rich glass of Carménère paired with a plate of local cheeses.

It’s hard to beat sipping wine with a view of the Andes in the distance.

City Meets Mountains

What makes Santiago so special is the way it blends urban life with nature. One moment, you’re in the heart of a bustling city, and the next, you’re gazing at the Andes or hiking up Cerro San Cristóbal for panoramic views.

As we stood at the top of Cerro San Cristóbal, looking out over the city, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for how varied this journey had been. From ancient ruins to chic city hotels, every part of our adventure had been filled with something new and unexpected.