It was a strange time to be in Santiago. The riots had died down, but the city was still scarred. That being said, the city is currently safe, and you should still go. •• Anti-police, anti-President, anti-government graffiti covered every building, every museum, every doorway. Every building in our neighborhood had wooden panels covering the ground floor windows, either to cover smashed glass or prevent further smashing. •• It’s a strange feeling to be in a city on the tail end of such an upheaval. The population of Santiago, and Chile in general, won an important concession though: there will be a nationwide referendum on the Constitution this April. I hope those who have felt marginalized, displaced, and otherwise excluded from the gains of the country fare better under it. •• Traveling to Chile was one more reminder that we are living in a newly unstable time. Many people view travel as an escape, but I rarely think this is accurate. I more often find that travel, done with an open and curious mind, makes one further aware of the problems, discontent and struggles of people around the world. And awareness is an uncomfortable but eye-opening necessity. . . . . .