The Trip
For spring break, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Santiago and Easter Island, an experience I will never forget. Our journey began at Dulles Airport on February 27th, where we boarded our flight full of excitement for the adventure ahead. After several hours of travel, we arrived on Easter Island on February 28th. We stayed at the Tupa Hotel, a charming spot with beautiful ocean views, and made it our home base until March 4th. During our time on Easter Island, we explored the island’s rich cultural heritage, visiting famous sites like the Moai statues at Ahu Tongariki and the volcanic crater at Rano Raraku.
After several incredible days on the island, we departed Easter Island and flew to Santiago, the vibrant capital city of Chile. In Santiago, we stayed at the Hotel Plaza San Francisco, a beautiful hotel located right in the heart of the city. Our stay there lasted until March 8th, giving us plenty of time to experience Santiago’s bustling streets, historic landmarks, and lively culture. When March 8th came around, it was sadly time to head home, but we carried back countless memories and experiences.
The main purpose of this trip was to learn more about the history and culture of Chile, especially Easter Island’s unique place within it. Along the way, we engaged in many activities that tied back to digital storytelling. We practiced capturing the essence of our experiences through photography and videography, and we even had the opportunity to conduct interviews with local residents to gain a more personal perspective on life in Chile and Easter Island. These experiences helped bring the history we were studying to life and allowed us to create meaningful digital stories that we could share with others.
Overview
During our stay on Easter Island, we immersed ourselves in the island’s unique culture and history. We explored iconic sites such as Rano Raraku, where almost 900 Moai statues were carved, and Ahu Tongariki, the island’s largest restored ceremonial platform featuring 15 statues. We also visited Anakena Beach, the archaeological site of Orongo, and hiked up Rano Kau volcano to witness stunning views of the island. We also had the opportunity to visit local craft markets to deepen our understanding of Rapa Nui culture.
On March 4th, we returned to mainland Chile, arriving in Santiago, where we stayed at the Hotel Plaza San Francisco. Over the next few days, we experienced a variety of cultural excursions. Highlights included a day trip to the coastal cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar, where we admired colorful street art, rode a traditional funicular, and enjoyed a wine tasting in Casablanca Valley. We also explored Cajón del Maipo in the Andes Mountains, taking in breathtaking natural scenery while enjoying local Chilean wine and empanadas. In Santiago itself, we took a full-day guided tour, learning about the city’s rich history and visiting major landmarks like San Cristobal Hill, accessed via a cable car. Our final day offered free time to explore Santiago’s vibrant neighborhoods and local shops as well as doing a guided wine tour through a vineyard to experince Chilean wine.
The trip offered a perfect blend of cultural exploration, historical learning, and adventure. From the ancient Moai statues of Easter Island to the colorful hillsides of Valparaíso and the vibrant streets of Santiago, every experience deepened our understanding of Chile’s rich heritage. The people we met, the landscapes we explored, and the traditions we witnessed made this journey truly unforgettable. It was an incredible opportunity to experience Chile’s history, beauty, and culture firsthand.
Highlights
In my blog post “Highlights of Spring Break” I dive into what some of the higlights of the trip were for me. One of the most unforgettable parts of my trip to Chile was seeing the incredible moai statues on Easter Island. It wasn’t just standing in front of the famous 15 moai at Ahu Tongariki — although that moment, with the Pacific Ocean behind them, was completely surreal — it was seeing moai all over the island, each with its own story. Some were still standing proudly, some were half-buried at Rano Raraku where they had been carved, and others had fallen over time. Learning about the history of the Rapa Nui people made the experience even more powerful. Later in Santiago, I had the chance to interview one of our tour guides, a man from the city, who shared even more about the island’s past and how Easter Island fits into the larger story of Chile. Hearing his perspective made me appreciate everything we had seen on the island even more. Every evening on Easter Island, the sunsets were absolutely breathtaking, lighting up the sky with unbelievable colors. Then in Santiago, we had a totally different but equally amazing set of experiences, like visiting a vineyard where I got to feed alpacas while sipping local wine, which was such a fun and random highlight. Even small things, like trying McDonald’s in Santiago and noticing how much fresher and better the food tasted, made the trip feel extra special. Between the unforgettable historic sites, the people I met, and the little moments that made me smile, this trip gave me memories I’ll never forget.
Growth
As I reflect on my recent trip to Easter Island and Santiago, Chile, I’m struck by how much this journey has impacted me both personally and academically. The trip was not only a chance to explore new places and cultures but also an opportunity for personal discovery and academic growth.
From the stunning landscapes to the rich history, every moment was an invitation to learn and evolve in ways I didn’t expect.One of the most profound personal experiences I had was standing with the Moai statues at Ahu Tongariki. There’s something incredibly humbling about standing next to these ancient, towering figures that have weathered centuries of wind and rain. I felt a deep sense of connection to the history of Easter Island, and it reminded me of the resilience of human creativity. Hiking around the Rano Rarku quarry, where the Moai were once carved, gave me a sense of awe for the island’s inhabitants and their ability to create something so lasting.
Beyond the historical sites, the natural beauty of Easter Island left a lasting impression on me. Watching the sunsets, exploring the extinct volcano at Rano Kau, and breathing in the fresh island air made me realize how vital it is to appreciate the simple things in life. In Santiago, feeding alpacas at a vineyard brought a lighthearted joy that balanced the deeper moments of reflection.
Academically, my trip to Easter Island and Santiago has opened up new ways for me to approach digital storytelling. One of the most exciting aspects of my journey was how the experiences I had—whether exploring historical landmarks or immersing myself in local culture—gave me fresh material to weave into my creative projects. As I’ve been studying how to craft compelling digital narratives, this trip provided an opportunity to see firsthand how different elements, from sound to visual design, can come together to tell a powerful story.
Cultural Insights
During my trip to Easter Island and Santiago, Chile, I gained valuable cultural insights that have inspired my digital storytelling projects. One of the most intriguing aspects of my visit was the mystery of the Moai statues on Easter Island. These towering figures are shrouded in questions—why were they built, how were they transported, and what do they truly represent? Standing before them, I felt a deep sense of wonder and curiosity about the history and spiritual significance of these statues, which inspired me to explore how mystery can be conveyed through digital stories.
In Santiago, I noticed a fascinating blend of modern life and respect for tradition. The city’s vibrant energy and rich history—evident in its architecture and cultural practices—gave me a deeper appreciation for how cultures evolve while maintaining strong ties to the past.
These cultural experiences have deeply influenced my current digital storytelling projects, particularly one focusing on the Moai statues. I invite you to explore this story further in my blog post “The Mystery of the Moai” , I delve into the mystery of these statues, using visuals and sound to evoke curiosity and wonder. My goal is to capture not just the history of the Moai but to play on the questions that may never be fully answered with different pices of digital art that include the Moai.
Overall, my time in Easter Island and Santiago left me with a deeper appreciation for the mysteries that places hold and the way history continues to shape the present. It’s a reminder that there’s always more to discover, whether in the ancient statues of Easter Island or the streets of a modern city like Santiago.
Recommendations
If you’re considering a study abroad trip to Chile, I can confidently say that you’re in for a life-changing experience. From the mysterious Moai statues on Easter Island to the vibrant energy of Santiago, Chile offers a wealth of culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are a few key recommendations based on my own experience that I hope will help future students make the most of their time abroad.
First, embrace the rich culture and history of Chile. This country has a deep, fascinating history that you’ll want to dive into, whether you’re exploring the ancient Moai statues on Easter Island or soaking in the modern-day vibrancy of Santiago. . Learning about the traditions, historical landmarks, and local customs will not only deepen your understanding of the places you visit, but it will also make your experience more meaningful.
In my blog post “Rachel’s Recommendations,“ I go over my suggestions for a trip to Easter Island and Santiago, including what to pack, discovering history, and my personal recommendations based on my own experience.
Equally important is connecting with locals. One of the most rewarding parts of studying abroad is engaging with people from a different culture. In Chile, the locals are incredibly welcoming, and I recommend striking up conversations whenever possible—whether in a café, while exploring the city, or when visiting a local market. Santiago, in particular, is full of energy and life, and talking to residents will give you a unique perspective on Chile’s culture and lifestyle. These connections will enhance your experience and create lasting memories.
Studying abroad in Chile will give you the opportunity to grow in ways you never expected. From the history of Easter Island to the cultural pulse of Santiago, there is so much to learn, explore, and experience. Soak it all in, connect with the people around you, and most importantly, enjoy every moment of your time in this fascinating country.
The Food
For one of my blog posts, I wanted to dedicate it specifically to the food I tried in Easter Island and Santiago. While there didn’t seem to be a single “national food” or signature dish that stood out, I found that Chile’s cuisine was diverse and flavorful, with regional variations offering unique tastes and experiences. It was fascinating to see how different foods were influenced by the geography and history of the country. In each city, I had the opportunity to sample a range of dishes, from fresh seafood to hearty traditional meals, and each bite told a story of local culture and culinary traditions.
What I loved most was how every meal felt like an adventure. Despite there being no clear-cut “national dish,” the variety of flavors and the importance of fresh, local ingredients made every meal memorable. In my blog post “Cuisine of Chile,” I reflect on the best foods I tried, from the vibrant poke bowls to the savory lasagna with white sauce and chicken. I also rank some of the dishes I found most exciting, comparing flavors, textures, and the overall experience of enjoying them in their authentic setting.
Documenting my food experiences not only gave me a deeper appreciation for Chilean cuisine, but it also allowed me to share my personal favorites with others. It was fun to explore the culinary side of both Easter Island and Santiago.
Closing Thoughts
As I reflect on my study abroad experience in Chile, I find myself reflecting on all that I’ve learned, both personally and academically. This journey has been more than just a chance to travel to a new country—it’s been an opportunity to dive deep into a rich culture, discover the beauty of unfamiliar landscapes, and grow in ways I never expected.
One of the most rewarding parts of this trip was how it allowed me to see the world from different perspectives. Whether standing in awe before the Moai statues on Easter Island, experiencing the energy of Santiago, or tasting new foods that expanded my palate, every moment felt like a step into something new and exciting. I feel grateful for the chance to document these experiences and share them through my blog, knowing that these reflections will stay with me for years to come.
Overall, this study abroad experience has been transformative. It’s not just the sights I’ll remember, but the connections I’ve made, the lessons I’ve learned, and the personal growth that came from stepping outside of my comfort zone. I would encourage anyone considering a study abroad trip to go for it. It’s an experience that will challenge you, surprise you, and most importantly, open your eyes to the world in a way you never imagined.