Day 5 delivered what might be the best sleep score of the entire trip. No alarms, no obligations, just blissful rest.

The morning began at Dosis Coffee, where we confidently ordered one latte and two cappuccinos. A slight misstep — oat milk. It didn’t taste like last time, but caffeine is caffeine, and we moved on.

After work, the group returned to Parque Metropolitano de Santiago. ES charged up the hill, NN followed with a heroic hobble (pausing for breathers here and there), while DU attempted the easier fenicular route. His strategy backfired when he accidentally purchased a senior’s ticket. Denied boarding, he had to buy again — but redeemed himself by arriving with empanadas and soda waters in hand.

The group descended together, turning the fenicular ride into a mock roller coaster experience. Sadly, the other riders — including a group of Chinese tourists whose photos we apparently ruined — did not share our enthusiasm. We regret nothing.

Back at the Airbnb, DU took a work call while NN and ES danced into the sunset, wine and music setting the tone.

Dinner was at Ambrosia Bistro, where we feasted on an impeccable lineup. Highlights included tiradito, parmesan oysters, confit duck, foie gras, and desserts ranging from lemon yuzu tart to pistachio frangipane. Quite possibly the best dinner of the trip — tied only with last night’s meal.

The night ended not with fatigue, but with the sense that Santiago was still offering more, and the evening was far from over.

The Chartered Traveller awards Day 5: Best Sleep, Best Dinner, and Best Roller Coaster Impersonation.

Yours in travel,
The Chartered Traveller