According to forum posts, taxis are available at Santiago airport and can be booked at official taxi desks located before the customs area. Payments can be made with credit cards, and prices are fixed by area, ensuring there is no need for negotiations.

Travelers have mentioned that shared shuttles are also accessible at the airport. These services can be cheaper than private taxis and are booked at the same official desks. Shared shuttles like TransVIP offer both shared and private options.

Some users discussed using airport buses as a transportation option. The Centropuerto bus is highlighted, which starts at Los Héroes, close to La Moneda, and can be accessed by a short walk or a metro ride to Pajaritos station where the airport bus can be taken.

For those considering different transport modes, forum contributions suggest using Uber as a viable alternative in Santiago, although confirmation might be required if it can drop off directly at hotel areas like the airport hotels.

According to forum posts, travelers can exchange currency at casas de cambio in Santiago, particularly around Agustinas and Bandera streets in the city center. These exchange offices are noted for offering good rates for US dollars and do not typically charge a commission.

Some travelers have mentioned that banks like Banco de Chile and Scotia Bank do not allow tourists to exchange currency unless they are clients. Therefore, it's less convenient for visitors to rely on banks for currency exchange.

Travelers have called out the Santiago airport exchange rates as unfavorable, describing them as significantly lower than the official rate. It's recommended to avoid exchanging large amounts of money at the airport due to these poor rates.

For many users, withdrawing cash from ATMs appears to be a viable alternative, though it involves fees. Some banks, like Banco Estado, charge a withdrawal fee, but ATMs generally offer rates close to the official exchange rate.

According to forum posts, some travelers recommended staying at the Le Reve hotel and the Solace Hotel in Providencia for their excellent location and services. Both hotels are near good restaurants and shopping areas, enhancing the convenience for visitors.

For many users, staying within a budget while enjoying quality accommodations is crucial. The posts suggest that most hotels in Santiago charge well below $400 per night, with some luxurious options like the Mandarin offering rooms at around $196.

Travelers have called out Providencia and Las Condes as preferred neighborhoods for staying in Santiago. These areas are appreciated for their safety, accessibility to public transport, and proximity to various dining and shopping venues.

Some travelers also discussed the benefits of staying in boutique hotels for a more local flavor or using services like Airbnb to potentially arrange more flexible check-in times, which can be beneficial for early arrivals.

According to forum posts, there is no place to buy a SIM card directly at Santiago International Airport. Travelers have indicated that they must purchase SIM cards in the city after their arrival.

For many users, the most common locations to purchase SIM cards are phone accessory stores, supermarkets, and kiosks throughout Santiago. Entel and Claro are frequently recommended for their wide coverage, especially in remote areas like Patagonia. Some travelers have also mentioned purchasing SIM cards at specific stores like Casa Royal, located in the Costanera Center.

Travelers have called out Entel for providing the best coverage in remote regions, making it a preferred choice for those traveling to less urban areas. Claro is also a popular choice, with some users purchasing SIM cards directly from Claro stores in the city.

Forum posts suggest that after purchasing a SIM card, the store staff can often help with the activation and setup. Prepaid plans, known as bolsas, can be bought and recharged at various retail locations, offering a mix of data and call services.

According to forum posts, buses from Santiago to San Antonio are a popular option. Some travelers have recommended taking the Tur-Bus or Pullman Bus from Terminal Alameda in Santiago directly to San Antonio. Buses generally cost around $8 USD, but prices can vary during holidays.

For many users, private transfers are preferred due to convenience, especially when traveling with luggage. Travelers have called out local companies like PuertoSanAntonioTours.com for offering direct transfers and additional sightseeing options. Prices for private transfers are generally quoted in local currency, with typical rates around 100,000 Chilean pesos.

Some forum posts suggest using taxis or rideshare apps like Uber, although there are warnings that Uber might underprice long-distance trips, making it difficult to find drivers willing to accept the journey. The standard taxi fare from Santiago to San Antonio could be around $90-$100 USD.

Some travelers have decided on a day trip to Valparaiso from Santiago, opting for a guided tour as they are traveling solo. Valparaiso offers a rich cultural experience and scenic city views, making it a popular choice for a quick visit.

According to forum posts, another highly recommended day trip from Santiago involves visiting the local wine regions. Travelers often choose guided wine tours as these do not require renting a car, and companies like Uncorked Tours have been recommended.

For nature enthusiasts, some users have suggested considering day trips to nearby hiking spots such as Cajon del Maipo, where you can explore outdoor activities like trekking to El Yeso Dam or the El Morado glacier, and even relaxing in the Colina Hot Springs.

Some travelers mentioned two bus services from SCL airport to the city center: Centropuerto and Turbus. Centropuerto drops passengers one block from La Moneda Palace, while Turbus goes to the main bus station, close to the city center.

According to forum posts, there is an official taxi booking desk inside the terminal at SCL airport, just after customs. Travelers can book a taxi here, and the prices are fixed. Payment options include credit cards. For early morning flights, taxis from hotels to the airport were recommended, costing between CLP$15,000-25,000.

For travelers concerned about taxi costs, shared shuttle services like Transvip were mentioned for airport transfers. These tend to be more economical but require more time as they stop to pick up other passengers.

Some users also discussed using apps like Uber for transportation to and from the airport, suggesting it as an alternative to taxis and public buses.

On Christmas Eve in Santiago, most establishments are open but close early to allow staff to celebrate in the evening, with some restaurants closing around 7 pm and supermarkets around 6 pm. On Christmas Day, almost everything is closed except for a few establishments like Starbucks and some restaurants, usually those in hotels which cater to visitors.

For New Year's celebrations, many choose to view the fireworks in Valparaiso or participate in parties with music and DJs in Santiago. On New Year's Day, it's common for most tourist attractions to be closed, but some restaurants and tours remain operational.

During Easter, travelers can attend church services at places like Santiago Community Church or the Catholic Cathedral. Masses are often available in both English and Spanish, and they take place in various significant locations, including the summit of San Cristobal Hill.