Writing this review is bittersweet; it means I get to look back on the -hands down- absolute, best time of life, but it also means I am home and no longer slaying powder runs in Chile with the most epic crew.
Ian Gil in all seriousness, is one of the most fun-loving, passionate, creative, and kind individuals I have ever had the pleasure of meeting and spending time with! SND’s mission is to share that passion for Chile, snowboarding, and fun all rolled into one life altering trip. every expectation I had for this 10 day adventure was exceedingly shattered from the moment I was met at the airport in Santiago. SND Tours custom curated tours around multiple chilean cities, mountain towns, and beaches left my heart overflowing with gratitude for the history, culture, beauty and [OMG] food of this wonderful place!
embarking on an all girls snowboarding camp in another country, SOLO, gave me that nervous excitement. my goal was to leave with some lifelong friends, and i can confidently say that i checked that box. our girl gang varied in ages, locations, and backgrounds, yet we all fit together like puzzle pieces. The BTBOUNDS coaches and SND Tours made sure we were safe at all times while teaching us about the mountains, and encouraging us to try new things and become better riders. My skills were challenged, and I learned a ton all while having a blast with a bunch of like-minded badass ladies. Farellones, Ski Arpa, empanadas, familia, pisco sours, Valparaiso, seafood, Chile dogs, laguna del inca, 5 am dancing, unreal sunsets, powder turns, smiles for days, pebre, and even the Tres Puntas poma lift - so beyond grateful to have experienced you! And thankfully, Ian is a BOSS with his cameras, capturing your memories the whole way through. His photos make the best souvenirs!
and lastly the wine. I had to segregate it because it deserves its own review; CHILE HAS THE BEST VARIETAL OF WINE. EVER. I will never get enough Carmenére!
If you are reading these testimonials and you HAVEN’T committed to this trip yet, stop right here and go sign up. it will be the best decision you have ever made for yourself.
If anyone sees my heart down in Chile, I definitely left it there. but I’m coming back to make more memories soon!
- Monica Poehner
Professional Travel Nurse