Earlier this month, I travelled solo to Chile. I have done solo travel many times and have been to South America before. However, it was my first time visiting Chile where Spanish is the official language. Santiago, the capital of Chile, has seven million people, about 3.5 times more populated than my home city. So it's kind of daunting to think about how I'm going to navigate in and around the city without getting lost.
Upon arrival at Santiago's Comodoro Arturo Merino Benitez International Airport, I decided to get into the city centre in a frugal and adventurous way, i.e. Riding Santiago's airport bus and metro (subway). Most tourists would use a shared van service or a taxi which, for the convenience, of course, costs several times more but does not save the passengers any time since Santiago traffic is heavy everywhere.
I had read about Santiago's airport buses and metro system before leaving home. I have also used various public transit systems at home and abroad before. Still, when there was no English-speaking staff available, it was out of my comfort zone to converse with them using my basic Spanish. I managed to buy a Centropuerto bus ticket to ride from the airport to Los Heroes terminal, then got off the bus, went underground, bought a Bip card to ride the metro (subway) to Baquedano station, and walked a few blocks from the metro station to my hostel. It took me about an hour door to door. The airport bus ticket was 1800 CLP, the Bip card was 1500 CLP, and the metro ride cost 750 CLP. Total 4,050 CLP or about CAD$8 (US$6).
The Centropuerto bus stop is outside the airport terminal at exit #5. Tickets can be bought from the bus driver. There is a small luggage area behind the driver, or staff will stow luggage in the bus belly. There is a second bus company named TurBus that runs similar route and charges the same for the ticket. The Bip card is mandatory since the beginning of March 2018. It's named after the sound it makes when scanned at the turnstile. Card holder can load the card with the ticket costs as needed, for one rider or more on the same card.
I made it to my accommodation safe and sound! I was pleased with myself for being able to use another foreign transit system without getting lost. Success!
How useful was my new experience? The next day, I helped an American couple from San Francisco to buy a Bip card and tickets. I also loaded my Bip card and hopped on and off Santiago's metro like a pro :)
What to do with the money saved? Well, how about treat myself to a nice glass of Chilean wine, maybe two, and enjoy the view of San Cristobal Hill from the roof top patio of my hostel? Bring on another new adventure!
Your turn... What's your most recent new whirl? Please share.
Wow! Now that is really stepping out of your comfort zone Natalie! I remember once in Italy, my husband who is originally from Italy made me go into a bank and ask for a cash advance on my credit card. He had faith I could ask in Italian (I didn't) but I managed it and felt great afterwards! I wasn't going to take part in the series but Leslie has convinced me! Have a great week!
ReplyDeleteSo glad you're taking part in the series, Sue. The day-to-day transactions in a foreign language and country would certainly be out of our comfort zone but when we overcome the barrier, it feels great. Have a fabulous week!
DeleteNatalie - I am totally impressed with your risk-taking (and skill) at taking on an unfamiliar transportation system in a foreign language. Very well done!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Donna, for your kind comment. If I can do it, anybody can. It was a great learning experience which gave me more confidence for my next adventure.
DeleteWhat an adventure Natalie! I'm glad you enjoyed it all. I remember travelling to the UK from Australia on my own a few years ago and feeling proud of myself for managing so well. I'm hoping to join in the series too but haven't made a start just yet!
ReplyDeleteHi Debbie - Solo travel requires us to stay sharp while on the road, doesn't it? Well done with your solo trip to the UK! So glad you're planning to join us on this link up. Thank you for dropping by.
DeleteI am impressed that you solo travel, as I've yet to do so. And you've now given me something to think about!
ReplyDeleteI find adapting to different transportation methods to be the most stressful part of traveling, whether domestically or internationally, so good job, Natalie!
Hi Tamara - Most people I know are uncomfortable with solo travel and think it may be lonely. I've always enjoyed and learned a lot from my solo travel, plus I've met so many new people, some have become my friends. As to the different transportation methods, yes, they can be stressful especially in big cities. Preparation in advance is essential. It does give a real dose of how locals and the working class people live and get around. Thank you for stopping by. Look forward to your joining us in this series in April.
DeleteTaking public transportation and getting around like locals, while saving money as well is satisfying. The fact you managed while not speaking English is awesome. A little adventure, with new-found confidence! :-)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Liesbet, for your kind words. This kind of adventure surely keeps me grounded and alert.
DeleteYour travels are such inspiration! But navigating your way on public transit in a foreign country using other than your native language is quite the feat. Bravo, my friend. Well done. And how wonderful that you were able to help others. Yay, YOU!!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Leslie, for your kind words and for hosting the link up. You did very well flying solo while PC was away. Have a fabulous week, my friend!
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