- Santiago is one of South America's main cities and, as such, has a very complete urban and tourism infrastructure, designed to make your stay a pleasurable and unforgettable experience.

- Santiago city also has a complete network of hospitals and private clinics, as well as medical "postas" (outposts), most of them attending emergencies on a round-the-clock basis.

- Public telephones in Santiago -abundant and easy to find- enable local and international calls using coins, cards, pre-payment, and even credit cards. As regards Internet, there are a good number of cyber cafés at different points in the city, and hotels give this service as well.

- The Chilean postal service is very efficient. The main Post Office in Santiago is in the Plaza de Armas. Post offices attend the public from Monday through Saturday from 8.30 a.m. through 3 p.m. Further information on postal services can be obtained from 800-362236.

- Santiago is a "disabled-friendly" city. Most streets, especially in the higher districts have sidewalk ramps for wheelchairs. Chilean legislation specifies that new buildings must be appropriately equipped; malls also have exclusive parking and specially equipped restrooms and telephones.

- For any further information you may require, please contact the Servicio Nacional de Turismo de Chile (Chilean National Tourism Service

- Sernatur), a government entity with branches all over the country. In Santiago, the Sernatur branch is located at the Santiago International Airport (phone 00-56-2-6019320), and open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. through 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9.30 a.m. through 1.30 p.m.

- The Santiago arts and crafts markets are located in the Providencia, Vitacura and Los Dominicos municipalities.