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Chile: Background and Travel Essentials

Both in its geography, culture and people Chile is a unique and diverse land to visit. It has the largest European community of all the countries in South America as well as a surviving indigenous tradition in the Andean foothills. Chile’s capital city, Santiago, is full of museums, art galleries and theatres and its literature and music have been recognised internationally. Chile is also a mecca for extreme sport seekers, said to be the only place in the world where it is possible to snow-board and surf in the same day. On top of that, the country is home to one of the driest deserts in the world, dense rainforests and spectacular volcanic terrain.

How is it that Chile is such a land of extremes? Take a look at any map and you'll see that it is a thin snake-shaped land approximately 2650 miles in length but averaging only 110 miles in width, which passes through a number of different climates. It's dominant features is the Andes mountain range which extends the entire length of the country and provides some of the best trekking and wildlife in the world. Add the warm and welcoming character of the Chilean people and Chile makes an ideal travel palate for all interests.

Climate

Because of its huge length Chile has a diverse climate. The north is made up entirely of extremely dry desert and rainfall increases further south with the central region having a Mediterranean climate, where rain falls in the winter months from May to July. The southern region is much cooler and has year round rainfall.

Language

The national language is Spanish with a few native languages spoken including Mapuche, Aymora and Rapa Nui. Visitors would be advised to learn a little Spanish as English is rarely spoken

Cash

Local currency is the peso (Ch$). Tourist sector inflation and the revaluation of the peso have made travelling in Chile more expensive than it used to be.

A budget meal can cost anything between $2-$10 with accommodation between $10-$20. Expect a mid-range meal to be between$15-$20 and accommodation $20-$40.

Food

Beef, seafood, vegetables and fresh fruit all feature in Chilean cuisine, asis a variety of potato and flour based breads.

Travel

Chile is an easy place to get around, with a quick and reliable bus system operating around the country. Domestic air fairs are cheap and it is possible to buy air passes to lower the cost even further. There is a tax of $5 on domestic flights.

Visa

Members of western European countries do not require a visa. This also applies to citizens of Australia, USA and Canada. New Zealander’s however do need one. US citizens do pay a US$20 levy.