Santiago, Chile

• Santiago sits in a valley with the Andes as a backdrop. The city is relatively safe compared to other South American capitals, though petty crime is common in tourist areas. The eastern neighborhoods (Las Condes, Providencia, Vitacura) are wealthier and safer, with more of a financial district feel. Bellavista has the nightlife and street art but gets sketchy after dark.
• People sit alone in cafes here without it being weird. English gets spoken in tourist spots like Lastarria and the upscale eastern areas, but you'll want at least basic Spanish for most places.
• The Metro has 7 lines and works well. Stick with Uber or Cabify instead of street taxis. The eastern neighborhoods stay lit and active later, so they're better for going out at night.
• Watch out for pickpockets downtown and on packed Metro trains. Phone theft happens regularly - keep your devices out of sight. The eastern side is much safer than downtown or the southern areas.

Spanish is the main language. English is spoken in tourist areas like Lastarria, Bellavista, and upscale neighborhoods like Providencia, Las Condes, and Vitacura. Tourist Police (+56-2-2922-7700) have English speakers. Emergency services (133, 131, 132) may have limited English, but help is available.

• People dress more conservatively here. Shorts and sneakers mark you as a tourist. For restaurants or going out, jeans or trousers are better than super casual clothes. Churches want shoulders and knees covered.
• Not much English outside tourist zones and wealthy areas. Learn a few basics - hola, gracias, por favor, disculpe. Keep Google Translate handy.
• Lunch runs 1-2 PM and it's the main meal. Dinner starts late, usually after 8 PM. Tip 10%. First time meeting someone, shake hands. In social settings, women do a single air kiss on the right cheek. Give up your seat for elderly people, pregnant women, or parents with kids on transit.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Police (Carabineros): 133. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• The Metro has 7 lines that cover most places you'll want to go. Get a BIP! card at any station (100 CLP to start) and reload it as needed - works for buses too. Free transfers between Metro, buses, and MetroTren. Rush hour (7-9am and 6-8pm) is packed and pickpockets work the crowds.
• Use Uber or Cabify, not street taxis. Check that the driver photo and license plate match before getting in. If you need a regular taxi, have your hotel call one - don't flag them down on the street.
• The eastern areas (Providencia, Las Condes) are fine for walking during the day. Downtown and Bellavista work for daytime but take a car after dark. The city is mostly flat, which helps.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Santiago with local guides and curated experiences.