1000 Days of Travel: Top Highlights, Lowlights & Tips from Days 901-1000 in Costa Rica, Argentina, and Chile
Yesterday, we marked our 1,000th day of full-time travel. Today, we're reflecting on the highs and lows from days 901-1000 across Costa Rica, Argentina, and Chile—including standout food experiences—plus practical recommendations for Buenos Aires and Santiago to enhance your own South American adventures.
Top Travel Moments
Celebrating our 1,000th day at a rooftop pool party in Santiago
Among countless memorable moments in these 100 days, nothing topped watching the sunset from the GEN hotel rooftop in Santiago, a hub for Dakar Rally participants. We mingled with locals and fellow travelers, sipped champagne, and savored an unforgettable evening.
Fully immersing ourselves in Buenos Aires life
From our detailed guide "33 Things We Love About Buenos Aires," it's clear we dove headfirst into the city's vibrant scene. We forged friendships, explored iconic sights and neighborhoods, dined at diverse restaurants, and absorbed its rich, unique culture.
Favorite Destinations
Buenos Aires, Argentina
After visiting 20 cities in 100 days, Buenos Aires stands out as our clear favorite—a rare place that captured our hearts completely.
Arenal, Costa Rica
Between our Costa Rican house-sit and flight to Buenos Aires, we escaped to La Fortuna (Arenal area), dominated by its majestic volcano. Despite prior extensive Costa Rica travels—including a long Osa Peninsula stay—this region surprised us with epic waterfalls, national park hikes, a relaxed mountain atmosphere, and our indulgent soak at Tabacon hot springs.
Most Disappointing Spot
Nosara, Costa Rica
Not every place wins us over, and Nosara's beaches fell short for relaxation despite ideal surf conditions. During low season, many eateries were shuttered, and expat influence inflated prices in the "American Sector." Still, we cherished stunning sunsets, beach walks with our dog, and our private infinity pool.
Worst Travel Moments
The Toxic Cloud Incident
Unaware of a port fire in Buenos Aires releasing toxic pesticides for over two hours, I worked with windows open, mistaking the foul odor for something minor while editing our book Break Free. It triggered severe skin irritation resembling chickenpox, lasting three weeks.
Top Travel Mishaps
Remarkably, no major mishaps in these 100 days! Here's hoping the streak continues.
Top Food Moments
Pizza in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires pizza wasn't just our highlight of the last 100 days—it's among the best from our entire 1,000-day journey.
Travel Recommendations
Join a free walking tour
We've become enthusiasts of free walking tours, where tip-based guides deliver passionate, knowledgeable experiences. Skipping group tours usually, we joined BA Free Tours in Buenos Aires for neighborhood deep dives and iconic sights, gaining rich cultural insights. In Santiago, we explored offbeat Barrio Yungay and Barrio Brazil, uncovering gems like Peluqueria Francesa—an historic barbershop beside a French restaurant.
Free tours are booming globally: Sandeman's in Europe (London, Edinburgh, etc.) and beyond; Free Tours by Foot in U.S. cities like New York and D.C.; plus independents worldwide.
If you enjoyed this, explore our previous Tops and Flops:
Our Tops and Flops of 900 days: Mexico and Costa Rica
Our Tops and Flops of 800 days: Cambodia, Singapore, India, USA, Mexico
Our Tops and Flops of 700 days: Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia
Our Tops and Flops of 600 days: United States, Thailand, Laos
Our Tops and Flops of 500 days: Portugal, Canada, USA
Our Tops and Flops of 400 days: Panama, Germany, Italy, Spain
Our Tops and Flops of 300 days: Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica
Our Tops and Flops of 200 days: Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador
Our Tops and Flops of 100 days: Las Vegas, California, Arizona, Mexico
