Staying out of hostels has been one of my goals for this portion of my trip. I spent almost my whole trip in south east Asia in hostels, with other back packers. And while this is definitely an experience, it wasn’t the experience I wanted for South America. Before going to Santiago I had stayed in one hostel, one farm, a friend of a friend’s place, and one hospedaje (homes of locals that rent out some of the rooms). In Santiago I decided to find a place through Air BnB. I found a single room rented out by another woman and her two female roommates. Over our email communication I felt a connection with her because she was also a solo female traveler.  Booking a night with her has been one of the best decisions I’ve made on my trip. 

I arrived in Santiago in the morning of February 26 with 20 hours before I had to catch my next flight to Peru. I took a bus and then with the help of a very nice local gentleman, the metro. I got off the metro and walked about twenty minutes before arriving at the apartment.

That afternoon I met one of the roommates and we instantly hit it off. Somehow crossfit came up in the conversation and to my complete surprise she also did crossfit. Not only did she know of a box, she was going to one that afternoon, and I could come! We had a really good time talking about our lives and our different adventures. Her box was really great, and all the people welcomed me with open arms. I even got a free shirt and a free session at the box! 

We spent that night laughing and getting to know each other. I wish I would have had more time in Santiago. I guess that just means I’ll have to come back one day:).