Looking at a map of Chile, you cannot but feel a touch of amazement: what an exceedingly long, narrow strip of land, stretching along the coast of southern South America. Tucked between the towering Andes Mountains and the endless Pacific Ocean, it seems Chile has no much room for anything. However, this region offers an overwhelming variety of natural contrasts in such a compact space. Cactus deserts, savannas and the beginnings of the rainforest, active volcanoes, huge glaciers and endless beaches - they are all available here with a sunny Mediterranean climate.
Chile is also a land, full of archeological and cultural wealth. The geoglyphs at Cerro Pintado and the pukaras (fortresses) of Quitor and Lasana are the indicators of the degree of civilization, attained by the original peoples of the area. Every city and village of the region is an inheritor of this past. Add to this a prosperous economy, some of the best telecommunications in the world, good tourist infrastructure, including fine Chile hotels and health services, friendly people and a total absence of poisonous plants or insects and you will have a destination that is hard to outclass.
Diversity is Chile's peculiar feature, not only regarding nature and culture, but it is a specific characteristic of the country's cities and towns. There are some, such as San Pedro de Atacama and Putre, surrounded by kilometers of the desert, which pace and rhythm of living differ greatly from those cities, located along the shoreline. The majority of Chile hotels options in such a remote areas range from basic bed and breakfast to a mid-level.
Conversely, Arica, Iquique and Antofagasta were created due to the mining activity in a mineral pit, and seaside cities offer the biggest part of the most comfortable Chile hotels and entertainments. You can find beaches, nightlife and casinos here. During summer months, they are very popular and consequently packed with holidaymakers. Indeed, Chile today is one of the most modern and convenient travel destinations in South America. In many places, it has a European feel along with European-style prices that are high in comparison with the rest of the continent.
The capital, Santiago de Chile, is quite different to other Chile cities in terms of living conditions, accommodation and entertainment options. You can find a wide choice of first-rate Chile hotels here, ideally centrally located. Subway stations, banks, shopping centers and restaurants are all easily accessible. Alongside they offer a direct access to the main business, cultural and financial districts of the city and the most important ski centers in South America. Most hotels, like the Crowne Plaza hotel in Chile, Santiago, for instance, have excellent facilities, as well as comfortable guest rooms and public areas. Accommodations feature a high-speed Internet data ports upon a request, a free connection to dial up the Internet, a two-line telephone, restaurants and bars, fitness centers and outdoor pools. All the services are sure to meet the needs of both business and leisure travelers.