1. Despite a low crime level tourists should be aware of cheaters and fraudsters in the streets of the city. One should not use services offered by strangers no matter how profitable these services may seem. Currency should be exchanged only in specialized establishments and financial institutions meanwhile jewelries should be bought only in stores. Tourists are strongly recommended to avoid buying jewelries and gems at the market places.
2. One should not touch upon politics and political life during communication with local folks. The Pinochet Regiment should not be touched under any condition otherwise the debate may last for hours and may grow into a true rally.
3. Drinking of alcohol is allowed only in specially designated establishments. Smoking is as well banned in public places. As a rule close to all the restaurants, bars, cafes as well as close to shopping and entertainment establishments tourists will find special smoking areas.
4. Tourists should keep in mind that a usual day off of every entertainment and public establishment is considered to be Sunday. Public institutions are commonly closed on great holidays. On holidays and weekends the city turns quiet. Checking in a hotel or buying flight tickets on Sundays is almost impossible.
6. A small cash reward should be given to a taxi driver. In this case a total sum according to the counter should be round up to any convenient amount. A hotel maid waits for 0.5 -1USD tips which will depend on a class of a hotel.
7. Local markets and private shops welcome bargaining as this helps to sufficiently reduce a price for desired goods. Bargaining will be inappropriate in large shopping centers and supermarkets. Shopping addicts are recommended to always be backed up with enough of small change and cash.
Discovering the architecture of Santiago from bird's eye view! Cathedral of Santiago, Gran Torre Santiago, Estacion Mapocho, Entel Tower, all those monuments are defining the image of Santiago … Open
Chile: travelling advices
5. Politeness requires smokers lighting up a cigarette to offer one to each friend - except for minors, of course.6. Chilean men often stare at women. Here it looks like an innocuous compliment, so you shouldn't focus on this, be frightened or insulted.
7. Pointing a finger at someone or something is bad manners; you should not call a person with a finger.
8. In Chile, some gestures normal for a European or an American may be perceived as vulgar and rude. Therefore, you should try to avoid active gesticulation during a conversation. … Open