From Panama to Chile: Our First Taste of Chile in Valparaíso

On Sunday, December 14, 2026, as my sister Denise was returning to New York City, Wayne and I were boarding Copa Airlines Business Class, headed to Santiago. This was our first time visiting the country, and we were truly excited for what lay ahead.

We arrived late in the evening, and while there wasn’t much to see at that hour, the anticipation was still there. After landing, we met our private driver and began the approximately two-hour journey to Valparaíso—a coastal city we had long wanted to experience.

🌊 A Warm Welcome by the Sea

For our stay, we chose the Sheraton Miramar Hotel & Convention Center, perched beautifully along the coastline near the port. Despite our late arrival, the staff welcomed us with such warmth and kindness that we instantly felt at home. To top it off, they surprised us with a charcuterie board and a bottle of champagne—such a thoughtful touch after a long travel day. It set the tone for what would be a truly relaxing stay.

🌅 Morning Views That Steal the Show

The next morning, we took our time waking up and strolling around the hotel before heading to breakfast. While the food itself was fairly standard, the views were anything but.

Floor-to-ceiling windows surrounded the dining area, ensuring that no matter where you sat, you had a front-row seat to the Pacific Ocean. We found a table by the water and simply took it all in. The morning staff continued the trend—friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming.

After breakfast, we wandered the hotel grounds, soaking in the scenery. The sky and water were a clear, brilliant blue. Waves gently crashed against the rocks below, while the city framed the coastline in the distance. Between the outdoor pool and the sitting areas, every angle felt like a postcard moment.

🧘🏽‍♀️ Choosing Rest Over Rush

We had initially planned to explore more of the city, but truth be told, we were content right where we were. After spending such meaningful (and full!) time with Denise and Lorraine during their visit, we were ready for a slower pace. Sometimes, the best decision you can make while traveling is to pause, rest, and simply enjoy where you are.

That said, Chile definitely left us wanting more. We’ve already promised ourselves that we’ll return one day and give it the full, land-based exploration it deserves 😅.

🚢 Pre-Cruise Connections & Shared Journeys

During our stay, we met several fellow travelers who were also preparing to board Viking Jupiter for the South America & Chilean Fjords cruise.

One couple we met at the hotel would become familiar faces throughout the voyage. We even participated in a cooking demonstration together onboard—proof that sometimes, the journey begins well before you ever step on the ship.

✨ Final Thoughts on Our Stay

All in all, our stay at the Sheraton Miramar was truly enjoyable. The location, the views, and especially the hospitality made it a memorable start to our Chile experience. It’s a place we would absolutely return to if our travels bring us back this way.

But if we’re being honest… we were more than ready for what came next.

🚢 Embarkation Day: What We Came For

The next day, we embarked on Viking Ocean Cruises’ Jupiter ship, and let’s just say—our “guaranteed cabin gamble” paid off in a big way. This was the moment we had been waiting for… and it did not disappoint.

💬 Let’s Talk Travel

Do you also like to arrive a few days early before a cruise?

What hotels have you stayed in that helped you ease into your journey?

⛵ Coming Up Next…

Embarkation day, our cabin surprise, and the beginning of an unforgettable journey through South America.

Buckle up—the journey is just beginning.