Budget Hotels in Santiago

By Leslie Brown

Inexpensive digs are not hard to come by in Santiago’s barrios. However, dishing out an extra few dollars will get you more comfortable and safer options.

Santiago’s center provides a plethora of accommodations. Younger travelers and the young-at-heart should head to areas Barrio Bellavista and Barrio Brazil for hostels filled with people who tend to get a little lively. Travelers on a budget should know that in the center of the city you can find a bed for piddles or a better room with a kitchen, continental breakfast and decent bath for an extra $15 or so. Higher-end accommodations lie to the east. In neighborhoods like Provencia and Las Condes, chic hotels ranging from $130 to over $200 a night are abundant.

Skiers hoping to find an economical stay before hitting the slopes will have to settle for a tiny room or have to allow time for a short stint on the metro before taking one of the ski buses that leave from ski rental shops in Provencia.

Many hostels offer discounts for larger groups, students with ISIC cards and those staying extended periods. Some mid-range hotels charge taxes, so be sure to ask about final prices.

Those staying for longer than a few weeks may want to rent a room or stay with a local family. Santiago’s periodicals El Mercurio and El Rastro give listings for apartments, rooms and family residencias. Notice boards at the tourist office may also give you leads.