The city of Santiago

Santiago is the capital and largest city of Chile – with over 5,000,00 inhabitants - and the political, commercial, and financial center of the nation. Much of Chile’s industry is distributed among other cities, but Santiago is an active manufacturing center. Textiles, foodstuffs, clothing, footwear, and other goods are produced. There are also large iron and steel foundries in the city, which has a subway and an international airport.

The city was founded and named Santiago de Nueva Extremadura on February 12, 1541, by the Spaniard Pedro de Valdivia. Laid out according to Valdivia’s plan in a gridiron pattern between the Santa Lucía Hill and the Mapocho River, a mountain torrent, Santiago has spread over a broad valley plain and is today one of the largest cities in South America. Low foothills surround the valley, and the snowcapped Andes, forming a superb background, rise in the eastern distance. For most of the year the capital has an ideal climate, with warm days and cool nights.

While some structures from the colonial era remain, the atmosphere of Santiago is very modern (much construction took place in the late 19th century), with neoclassical government offices, modern office buildings, and sumptuous residences. Spacious parks, plazas, gardens, and wide avenues are characteristic features. The city also has a zoo, camping grounds, and several sports stadiums.

Official Language
Spanish






Climate
Chile experiences many different climates, as its territory stretches from the desert in the North to Antarctica in the South. Nonetheless, in general, the climate in the north is dry, in the central and central south regions is mild and temperate, with rains in winter, and cool and rainy in the far south.

Average temperatures in Santiago are a minimum of 13°C(55ºF) and maximum of 32°C(90ºF) in summer, and a minimum of 0°C(32ºF) and a maximum of 15°C(59ºF) in the winter.
Visitors from most countries require only a current passport and a tourist entrance card, which is valid for 90 days. No vaccines are necessary.


Transportation within Santiago
Santiago’s transportation system is extensive, fairly cheap and modern.
There are three main public transportation options: the Metro (subway system), buses and taxis.




Currency / Currency Exchange
The Chilean currency is the Chilean Peso ($). Its equivalent value with the dollar currency varies dailly so you should inform yourself before traveling. Currently,a of , January 15, the exchange rate was $ 570 per dollar.

Banking hours are from Monday to Friday, 9 am – 2.00 pm. However, ATM machines are however widespread and operate 24 hours a day. Travelers checks and foreign currencies may be exchanged at banks (best rates), currency exchange houses and hotels.


Credit Cards
All major credit and debit cards are accepted in hotels and also in most shops and restaurants. The most accepted ones are Visa, MasterCard and Diners, and to a lesser extent, American Express. Travelers checks / cheques are widely accepted.




Passports and Visa
A valid passport is required for entry into Santiago. Please check your visa requirements with your travel agent or airline.





Electricity
Santiago uses a 220 volts AC system.






Tipping
Restaurant waiters look forward to receive tips in the range of 10 per cent. Normally they are not included automatically in the bill.