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Santiago Travel Resources

Santiago Travel Resources

Santiago Santiago Metropolitan, Chile Travel Guide

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for Travel

  • Google Maps

    Navigation, attraction location, and public transport routes. Download offline maps for use without internet.

  • Moovit

    Real-time public transport information for Metro and bus systems.

  • Uber/Cabify/Didi

    Widely used ride-sharing apps for convenient and open transportation.

  • Google Translate

    Download the Spanish offline language pack. Camera translation helps with menus or else signs.

  • WhatsApp

    Commonly used messaging app in Chile for personal and business communication.

Online Planning & Content

  • Sernatur

    Chile's official tourism website. Look for Santiago-specific content.

  • Santiago Metro Official Website

    Detailed route maps, schedules, and information on costs and accessibility.

  • Costanera Center Official Website

    Information on shopping, dining, and events at South America's largest mall.

  • Sky Costanera Official Website

    Purchase tickets and find out the opening hours for the observation deck.

  • Turistik.cl

    A tour operator with hop-on-hop-off bus tours and various excursions from Santiago.

Print Resources

Recommended Maps

National Geographic Adventure Map Chile North & Central offers a wide overview.

Chilean Literature

Immerse yourself in Chilean culture through works like 'The House of the Spirits' by Isabel Allende.

Local Publications

National newspapers like El Mercurio or La Tercera provide local insights. Cultural centers offer event guides.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Police (Carabineros): 133
  • Ambulance (SAMU): 131
  • Fire Services (Bomberos): 132
  • Private clinics are generally higher standard for travelers.

Important Procedures

  • Lost or stolen documents: Immediately report to the local police for a "denuncia" (police report).
  • Contact your embassy or consulate after obtaining a police report for document replacement.
  • Natural disasters: Chile is seismic. "Drop, Cover, Hold On" during an earthquake.
  • Follow hotel evacuation plans and local emergency instructions.

Further Reading & Exploration

Films & Documentaries

  • 'No' (2012): A compelling film about the 1988 plebiscite.
  • 'Machuca' (2004): A drama set before the 1973 coup.
  • Documentaries on Pablo Neruda's controversial death.
  • Visual insights into Chilean history and society.

Music & Art Appreciation

  • Listen to Victor Jara and Violeta Parra (Nueva Canción Chilena).
  • Explore Los Jaivas for progressive rock with folk roots.
  • Discover Inti-Illimani and Quilapayún for folk revival music.
  • Research Chilean painting and sculpture.

Online Communities & Language

  • Reddit's r/chile for local discussions and questions.
  • Travel forums for Santiago or Chile.
  • Facebook groups like "Expats in Santiago" for the local community insights.
  • Babbel for basic Spanish, or online tutors for Chilean Spanish.

Traveler's Safety Notes

Security Reminders

Awareness in Crowds

  • Maintain awareness of your surroundings.
  • Pickpocketing can occur in busy tourist areas.
  • Keep bags secured and in front of you.
  • Avoid carrying significant amounts of cash.

Nighttime Precautions

  • Keep to populated-lit and inhabited areas.
  • Take a ride-sharing apps or pre-booked taxis after dark.
  • Avoid walking alone late at night.
  • Trust your intuition regarding unsafe situations.

Digital Security

  • Use a reputable VPN service on public Wi-Fi.
  • Protect your devices having robust passwords.
  • Watch out for unsolicited messages or calls.
  • Avoid sharing sensitive personal information online.

Health & Wellness

General Health Guidance

  • Carry a basic first-aid kit with any kind of personal medications.
  • Use sunscreen and drink plenty of water, especially during summer months.
  • Bug spray is useful for outdoor activities.

Vaccination & Consultations

  • See your doctor about recommended vaccinations for Chile.
  • Some vaccinations require multiple doses over several weeks.
  • Carry copies of your medical prescriptions if you have chronic conditions.

Transportation Network

Metro System

  • Santiago's Metro is efficient and covers much of the city.
  • The Bip! Card is essential for all Metro and bus rides.
  • Avoid peak hours for a more comfortable journey.

Buses & Taxis

  • Santiago's bus system extends Metro reach to other neighborhoods.
  • Official cabs are yellow. Negotiate fares or ensure meters are used.
  • Ride-car-sharing apps give a convenient alternative to street taxis.

Money Matters

Currency & Exchange

  1. The local money is the Chilean Peso (CLP).
  2. Exchange houses (casas de cambio) are common in central areas.
  3. Compare rates to get the best bang for your buck for your currency.
  4. ATMs are widely available for cash withdrawals.
  5. Notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid card freezes.

Payment Methods

  1. Plastic money is widely accepted in retailers and restaurants.
  2. Carry small denominations of Pesos for smaller purchases or tips.
  3. Some street sellers or small businesses accept only cash.
  4. Tipping in restaurants is customary (roughly 10%).
  5. VAT (IVA) refunds are not generally open to visitors in Chile.

Cultural Etiquette

Greetings

A single kiss on the right cheek for ladies, handshakes for men.

Dining Norms

The evening meal is typically later, from 8 PM onwards. Lunch is usually a "Menu del Día."

The local population is typically friendly. A few Spanish phrases make a difference.

Important Note

Always maintain vigilance, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transport, to keep personal belongings secure.

Exploring Chilean Culture

Art & History Immersion

Museum Highlights

  • Museo Histórico Nacional

    Discover Chile's rich history, from pre-Columbian times to the present.

  • Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

    Explore Chilean and international art holdings.

  • Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral (GAM)

    A modern cultural hub with diverse artistic performances and exhibitions.

Historical Landmarks

  • Palacio de La Moneda

    The presidential palace. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony.

  • Santiago Metropolitan Cathedral

    A historic landmark at The main Plaza.

  • Cerro Santa Lucía

    An urban park and historical hill with panoramic city views.

Literary & Poetic Santiago

La Chascona

One of Pablo Neruda'the house of-museums, located in Bellavista.

Chilean Nobel Laureates

Chile has produced two Nobel Prize in Literature winners: Pablo Neruda and Gabriela Mistral.

Literary Cafes

Visit delightful cafes in neighborhoods like Lastarria, commonly attended by writers and creative individuals.

Contemporary Art & Design

Street Art & Urban Galleries

  • Barrio Bellavista showcases street art and murals.
  • Barrio Lastarria features numerous independent art galleries.
  • Look for public art installations throughout the city.
  • Guided street art tours often provide insights.

Architectural Marvels

  • Barrio Concha y Toro is known for its unique European-style mansions.
  • Templo Baháʼí de Sudamérica features stunning contemporary design.
  • Modern skyscrapers in Las Condes reflect Santiago's growing skyline.
  • Explore diverse architectural styles from colonial to modern.

Music & Performance Scene

Concerts & Live Venues

  • Teatro Municipal de Santiago hosts opera, ballet, and symphony concerts.
  • Smaller venues in Bellavista feature live music, from jazz to rock.
  • Keep an eye on local listings for international and Chilean artist performances.
  • Festivals of the season bring diverse musical acts to the city.

Performing Arts

  • GAM (Centro Cultural Gabriela Mistral) has contemporary theater and dance.
  • Smaller independent theaters across Santiago offer intimate performances.
  • Look for 'Santiago a Mil' (January) for an international theater and dance festival.
  • Performance art and experimental works are commonly found in cultural spaces.