Valdivia: The Gem of Southern Chile's Rivers

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeAdiós
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• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [pohr fah-vohr/de nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
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• Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh see-ehn-toh]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byehn. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
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• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseQuisiera ver el menú, por favor
  [kee-syeh-rah behr ehl meh-noo, pohr fah-vohr]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-loohd]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe gustaría pagar, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah pah-gahr, pohr fah-vohr]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
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• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
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• I'm illEstoy enfermo
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• I'd like to buy...Quisiera comprar...
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• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
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• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
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• That's too expensiveEstá muy caro
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• Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
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• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
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• It's one o'clockEs la una
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• Half past (10)Y media (10)
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• MorningMañana
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• AfternoonTarde
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• EveningNoche
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• TodayHoy
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• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
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• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
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• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
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• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
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• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah ....)]

Valdivia was founded on February 9, 1552, by Pedro de Valdivia, a Spanish conquistador. The city was named after him and quickly became one of the most important Spanish settlements in southern Chile. Its strategic location near the confluence of the Calle-Calle and Cruces rivers made it a key site for trade and defense.

The initial establishment of Valdivia was met with strong resistance from the indigenous Mapuche people. The Arauco War, which lasted for several centuries, saw numerous raids and attacks on the city. Despite these challenges, the Spanish fortifications and the resilience of the settlers helped maintain Valdivia as a prominent outpost in the region.

In 1643, a Dutch fleet led by Hendrik Brouwer attempted to capture Valdivia. The Dutch saw the city as a potential base for controlling the Pacific coast and disrupting Spanish trade routes. Although they managed to occupy the city briefly, they were eventually driven out by the Spanish forces, who reinforced their defenses even further after this event.

On May 22, 1960, Valdivia was struck by the most powerful earthquake ever recorded, with a magnitude of 9.5. The earthquake caused widespread destruction and triggered massive tsunamis that affected coastal areas around the Pacific Ocean. The city faced significant rebuilding efforts in the following years, which reshaped its infrastructure and landscape.

Valdivia has evolved into a vibrant cultural hub, known for its rich history and diverse heritage. The city hosts numerous festivals, including the International Film Festival of Valdivia, which attracts filmmakers and enthusiasts from around the world. The presence of the Austral University of Chile also contributes to the city's dynamic cultural and academic scene.

In the mid-19th century, Valdivia experienced a wave of German immigration, which left a lasting impact on the city's culture and architecture. The German settlers introduced new farming techniques, brewing traditions, and architectural styles. Many buildings in Valdivia still reflect this German influence, making it a unique blend of indigenous, Spanish, and German cultures.

Valdivia is located in the Los Ríos Region of southern Chile. The nearest major airport is Pichoy Airport (ZAL), situated about 32 kilometers northeast of the city. Several domestic flights connect Pichoy Airport to Santiago, Chile's capital. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to reach the city center. Alternatively, you can reach Valdivia by bus from major Chilean cities such as Santiago, Concepción, and Puerto Montt. The bus terminal is centrally located, making it convenient for travelers.

Public transportation in Valdivia includes buses and taxis. Buses are affordable and cover most areas of the city, including popular tourist spots. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the streets or booked via phone. Renting a car is another option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. For a unique experience, take a boat ride along the Calle-Calle River to enjoy scenic views of the city and its surroundings.

The official currency in Chile is the Chilean Peso (CLP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Valdivia. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are plentiful in the city, but be aware that international transaction fees may apply. Currency exchange services are available in banks and specialized exchange offices.

Valdivia is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Valdivia doesn't have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 133 for police assistance, 131 for medical emergencies, and 132 for the fire department. Valdivia has several hospitals and clinics, including the Regional Hospital of Valdivia. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid overly casual or revealing clothing when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers and avoid eating or drinking on buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a friendly 'Hola.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as 'curanto' and 'crudos.' Don't refuse food offerings, as it can be considered impolite.

To experience Valdivia like a local, visit the Feria Fluvial, a bustling riverside market where you can buy fresh seafood and local produce. Engage with local artisans at the Mercado Municipal, where you can find handmade crafts and souvenirs. Don't miss a visit to the Kunstmann Brewery for a taste of Valdivia's famous craft beer. For outdoor enthusiasts, a walk through the Valdivian Coastal Reserve offers stunning natural landscapes and wildlife.