Chile – Santiago

NEW CONTINENT. New city. It was not love at first sight. But among all the depressing and ugly concrete towers we found interesting, charming and friendly neighborhood like Barrio Italia and Barrio Lastarria.

Especially we were impressed by all the street art, nice restaurants and museums. The beautiful food, tasteful drinks and lovely wines and last but not least the very friendly Chilean people. We spend a full afternoon at the very interesting museum for “memory and human rights”. 17 years (1973-1989) with dictator Pinochet is a part of history that forever will be like an open scar in the history of Chile and its people. Dictatorship and tortures are still taken place all over the world. We were reminded being Danes, living our life in a very privileged part of the world.

We did a very informative 4 hour “free walk for tips” tour in Santiago. The young student shared information about the history of Chile and more importantly shared insights and the full story about the current situation in Chile. Mass demonstrations and tough confrontations between the Chilean and the police / army. Lack of social security, poor healthcare and almost non existing pension are the main reason why the protests will not stop. The gap between rich and poor is huge. 1% of the population owning 50% of the value.

We saw demonstrations in the streets from our apartment on the 23. Floor. We were told to stay away, as it is easy to get caught in between the “protesters” and the police.  We never felt insecure but whenever we went out in the city at night, we planned our route and tried to be home before dawn! We felt that the city was trembling and experienced how the people in the street were reacting when an armed police car passed by. People running towards the car jelling and lifting their arms to show their anger and frustration. A.C.A.B. (All Cops Are Bastards) are painted all over the city.

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