About Chile

Yes, it's considered polite to wait until everyone at the table has their meal before starting to eat, especially in formal settings or family gatherings.

Tipping 10% is customary in restaurants, but it's often included as a 'servicio' charge on the bill, so check before adding extra.

Always ask for permission before photographing indigenous communities, as some may consider it disrespectful or intrusive.

Use the BIP! card for buses and the metro; avoid rush hours (7-9 AM and 6-8 PM) when trains and buses are extremely crowded.

Drinking alcohol in public spaces is illegal, and smoking is banned in all indoor public areas, including restaurants and bars.

Chileans often eat a large lunch (almuerzo) around 1-3 PM and a lighter dinner (once) around 8-10 PM, so plan meals accordingly.

Use long-distance buses instead of flights; they're affordable, comfortable, and offer scenic views of Chile's diverse landscapes.

Try curanto, a traditional dish from Chiloé made with seafood, meat, and potatoes, cooked in an earth oven.

Support local artisans and markets, avoid single-use plastics, and respect protected areas like national parks by staying on marked trails.

A single cheek kiss (right cheek) is common between women and between men and women, while men usually shake hands or hug if they're close friends.

In Santiago, cars with certain license plate numbers are banned from driving during peak hours on specific days to reduce traffic congestion.

Visit between November and March for milder weather, but be prepared for unpredictable winds and sudden temperature changes even in summer.