Tourist Information Chile - A |
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Accommodation
From fancy hotels to simple hostels, you will find a range of accommodations in all major cities and the vacation areas. In recent years, new hotels and bungalows complexes have been built in remote areas and in National Parks. The latter - so-called cabañas - are fully equipped small buildings that include kitchenette, a cheaper alternative for families then hotels.
Hotels
The price-quality ratio can vary considerably among hotels (hotel, hostería). There is no general classification system, and claims to so many stars do not say anything about the quality of a place. When making one's selection, it's always a good idea to look at size and location of a room, private bathroom (baño privado), necessities (TV, phone), and service. Breakfast is usually included, but it's only worth mentioning when it's designated as desayuno americano or buffet. In high season (December to February), prices for medium and top hotels can be compared to European ones (starting at about USD 40 for a medium category single). Single rooms are usually not much cheaper than double.
Hostels
Simple hostels (residencial, Hostel, hostería, casa de familia) offer inexpensive accommodations, but you will have to make allowances when it comes to comfort. The closer to the bus station, the simpler the room, and the more questionable its cleanliness. There are very few youth hostels, and they are open only in mid-Summer (January / February).
Motels
Those travelling by car will find many motels along the Panamericana where guests usually stay in small bungalows. This discrete arrangement is not surprising given the these hotels are socially acceptable, sometimes quite fancy, locations for undisturbed sexual encounters, which often also function as normal hotels outside the big cities.
Reservation & Taxes
Room reservations are only necessary during high season and in tourist areas. Starting from medium category up, you can use credit cards for paying. International tourists need not pay the 18% value-added sales tax when paying in USD (cash or traveler's' checks), but this discount is not always applied automatically.
Long-term Housing
For longer stays in Santiago, the agency Contactchile offers housing alternatives with families or students.
Airport Shuttle
Santiago
Safe and comfortable vans run from door to door taking several people to the requested address for USD 5.00-7.00 each. This service can also be requested by phone for pick-ups from your Santiago address when leaving by plane: phone 777 77 07. For two people, a taxi can be cheaper (negotiate the price beforehand). Airport buses run between the airport and Metro Los Héroes (about USD 1.50).
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