I have always had a good grounding in what Chile offers, from the Atacama Desert to Patagonia, but Carol’s personal insights, first-hand stories and depth of knowledge opened the country up in a whole new way. I came away feeling both reassured that I understood a lot already and genuinely excited by how much more there is to share with my clients. It is the kind of session that makes you fall in love with a destination all over again.

Atacama Desert - where Chile feels otherworldly

The Atacama Desert has long been on my radar as one of the most striking landscapes in South America, but hearing it described through real on-the-ground experiences brought it vividly to life.

Picture a place that feels almost lunar with vast salt flats shimmering in the sun, sculpted rock formations carved by centuries of wind, and geysers hissing and steaming in the cold morning air. Then, as night falls, the sky transforms into a blanket of stars so bright and clear that stargazing here is not just “looking up”, it feels almost spiritual.

I knew Atacama was world-famous for astronomy, but I learned so much more about how the local guides weave stories of the land, the constellations and their own heritage into each experience. It is this blend of nature and narrative that turns a beautiful view into a memory that really stays with you.

The Lake District - Chile’s softer side

Travel south and Chile changes character. In the Lake District, the landscapes soften into emerald valleys and deep blue lakes, ringed by snow-capped volcanoes and thick native forest. I have always thought of this area as perfect for those who like scenery and gentle adventure, but the webinar highlighted just how varied and flexible it can be.

You can drift across serene lakes by boat, pause at waterfalls and viewpoints, and spend unhurried days soaking up the peace and quiet. It is the kind of place where you can slow down, breathe deeply and feel wonderfully small in the middle of all that nature.

What I particularly appreciated learning here was how much local culture and food are part of the experience - family-run lodges, regional specialities and hosts who take real pride in sharing their corner of Chile with visitors. It made me realise how many different types of traveller I can confidently recommend this region to, from walkers and photographers to couples looking for somewhere tranquil but still adventurous.

Patagonia - where the wild takes over

Further south still, Patagonia rises up in all its wild, cinematic glory. I already knew this was a bucket list region for many of my clients, but Carol’s descriptions of being out on the trails, watching the weather and light shift across the mountains, added a very human dimension.

Think jagged granite peaks, immense blue-white glaciers, wind-sculpted steppe and vast open skies. Days here are spent hiking iconic routes, cruising past icebergs on glacial lakes, and standing at viewpoints that make you quietly catch your breath. It is not just dramatic for the sake of it, it is genuinely humbling.

Hearing how guides tailor the pace and difficulty to each traveller, and how lodges create warm, welcoming spaces to come back to after a day in the elements, has given me even more confidence in recommending Patagonia to the right clients. It is big, it is wild, but it is also incredibly well supported for those who want to experience it in comfort.

Culture, people and the heart of Chile

What ties all these regions together, and what came through so strongly in Carol’s presentation, is the warmth of the Chilean people. I loved hearing her personal anecdotes - sharing a glass of Chilean wine with local hosts, tasting regional dishes, and listening to stories that reveal what it is like to live in such remote and beautiful places.

I have always known Chile for its landscapes, but this webinar really reinforced how important the human element is. The culture, food, wine and hospitality turn a great itinerary into a truly meaningful journey.

Selling Chile with confidence (and planning my own trip!)

As a Travel Counsellor, ongoing learning is a huge part of how I serve my clients, and this webinar was a perfect example of that. I went in with a solid understanding of Chile, and came out with fresh ideas, richer detail and a much clearer sense of how to match different parts of the country to different styles of traveller.

It means I can now sell Chile not just confidently, but enthusiastically, with the reassurance that I am drawing on up-to-date, first-hand insight as well as my own expertise. And I will be honest, I cannot wait to visit for myself. The more I discover, the higher Chile climbs on my personal wish list.

If you have been dreaming of a journey that feels vast, immersive and genuinely once in a lifetime, Chile deserves a place at the top of your list. Whether you are drawn to star-filled desert skies, tranquil lakes and volcanoes, or the raw drama of Patagonia, I would be delighted to help you explore the possibilities and shape an itinerary that matches your style of travel.

Contact me to start planning your Chilean adventure:
caron.diggory@travelcounsellors.com
01789 659067