Vacation season often becomes hunting season for Europeans on the hunt for sunshine, vibrant culture, bright food, and an overall amazing experience to capture on Instagram- often leading to Latin America. Chile being your first and possibly most exciting adventure may have you wondering where to start. Here are few important things to consider as you make your way to Chile.
Documents.
You need a valid Passport. If it’s been awhile, check your expiration date-wouldn’t want that to creep up on you at immigration. You will not need a visa to enter Chile. Upon arrival during immigration processing you will receive a 30, 60, or 90 day tourist card, often in the form of a passport stamp, with 90 being the most common. This is similar to a “visa upon arrival” concept. I like to also keep a copy or two of my passport on my person. This can be helpful when renting a vehicle or providing a copy for your Airbnb host. Either way-good to have on hand.
Packing. Spending. Lodging.
For a list of specifics, check out 25 things to pack for Chile. Weather plays a huge role in what you put in your suitcase. Chile is long and thin, and contains a wide range of micro-climates. Keep in mind the seasons – July and August being prime cool weather for tourists looking to evade the heat. Check your specific locations in advance and pack versatile. Hot or cold the UV rays that fall on Chile are no joke, so carry sunscreen no matter the season. Include an adapter for your plugins. Voltage and shape requirements vary among Europe and Chile-THIS SITE helps allocate which adapter you may need. Also, be prepared for earthquakes, usually small but frequent. You can’t really pack for this but at least you have a heads up! As for your spending pleasure, currency exchange rates are in your favor so bring cash, but keep in mind Credit Cards are widely accepted throughout Chile. Before you blow your vacation money on hotel stays, check out Airbnb. Hosts are located all over South America and Europe.
Food.
Chileans are tremendous carnivores- that being said you can still always expect corn and potatoes. Depending on which part of Europe you are coming from, you may be used to spuds, but you’ve never had papas the Chilean way. Seafood is an obvious must-have along with bright and fresh produce. There is no shortage of dining options throughout Chile, but don’t expect the most international of menus, most local restaurants consist of different versions of similar dishes. My advice, make friends with a neighbor who will invite you for dinner – and vice versa! Drink wine, in every city, whenever possible, really! A visit to Chile is incomplete without a wine tour.
There is so much to discover coming from Europe to Chile. It’s a whole new world. Brush up on your Spanish, check out our blogs, and get TheBesty App for free in the App Store or on Google Play, and have a personal concierge in your pocket for your trip that will answer your questions in a live chat, or help you book tours, activities, and local experiences- all in Latin America.
