Traditions and customs in Santiago

1. Once

Afternoon tea with bread, avocado and ham at around six — many households eat it instead of dinner.

• Best time: 18:00–20:00

2. Cueca

The national dance, performed with handkerchiefs, and unavoidable around Fiestas Patrias.

• Best time: September

3. Terremoto

White wine, pineapple ice cream and grenadine, served in the old city taverns. The name means earthquake.

4. Lapis lazuli

Chile is one of two significant sources, and the blue stone is worked into jewellery here.

5. Weekend to the coast

Santiago empties toward Valparaíso and Viña del Mar, ninety minutes west.