Pencil-thin Chile may be one of the longest and narrowest countries in the world, but this does not stop the country from boasting a broad array of attractions and a thriving business climate. Therefore, with the increasing availability of serviced apartments, Chile is gradually becoming one of the top business travel locations worldwide.
Chile is based along the western coastline of South America, sharing borders with Peru, Bolivia, Argentina. The 2,700 miles long coastline looks out onto the Antartic Ocean in the south and the Pacific Ocean in the west. Chile’s eighteen million population occupy a 300,000 square miles landmass packed with terrain diversity. It is home to the driest hot desert on the planet, the Atacama, in the north contrasting to the extreme Antarctic conditions southwards, and the landscape is influenced greatly by the dominant Andes mountain range. by the Andes, the capital Santiago is Chile’s largest city and undoubtedly the biggest contributor to the country’s annual six million tourists. Santiago also sets a benchmark to other countries regarding the successes of the economy, business and serviced accommodation.
Many believe Chile to be the oldest inhabited land of the Americas, with questionable evidence dating back thirty-three thousand years ago. The indigenous American population maintained a hold over the land until the European exploration era emerged. Spanish began expeditions into Chile began in the early sixteenth century. Encomiendas dominated Chile as Spaniards grew a lust for American gold and wealth. Struggles for independence finally materialised in the early nineteenth century, with independentists eventually overthrowing the Spanish Crown. Independence from Spain was recognised in 1818, but followed was a period of Chilean state reformation. The new Republic prioritised the economy, but it took annexation of neighbours, civil war and enduring military dictatorship in order to for Chile to bare the fruits of the wealthy potential. Democracy and liberal economic policy followed, and have been the main features of modern-day Chile.
Chile’s economic performance is impressive, ranking third and twentieth in the region and world respectively concerning economic freedom. Its world-leading copper production is vital for the national economy, and exportation of material and food products are essential drivers of GDP growth. As a matter of fact, trade, on the whole, equates to just over fifty per cent of the GDP. Whilst there is a sense of dependency on these exports, international demand from the likes of China have been reliable. Chile’s population has benefited as a result of economic success. Poverty has declined by 20% since the turn of the century and GDP per capita stands highest in the region. If these successes are to continue, Chile’s economy must continue to diversify and function through stable macroeconomic management.
Invest Chile has been at the forefront of inspiring foreign investment into the country. Their efforts have been worthwhile too, as an increase in projects has led to a significant increase in overseas investment in the last few years. It is evident that the Chilean government realise the importance of foreign investment into the country, shown by its creation of the Chilean Economic Development Agency (CORFO) and integration into the World Bank’s ‘Innovation Policy Platform’ (IPP). Consequently, these agencies and policies enable foreign corporates to be eligible for certain taxes and support for project implementation. The general business environment is supportive too. Chile ranks third in the world for technological connectivity and boasts a vast network of modern transportation facilities. Economic activity is simple in Chile, and the increasing number of corporate accommodation options make business travel here easier than ever.
There are ninety-two countries whose residents can enter Chile visa-free. This includes citizens of the EU, US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Residents almost all South American countries are eligible for ‘ID Card entry’. On the other hand, most African and southern Asian residents will require a visa for trips to Chile. Be sure to contact the Chilean Embassy or high commission for more visa requirement information.
Travellers do not always view Latin American countries as the safest places in the world to visit. However, the Global Peace Index puts minds at ease. According to this index, Chile ranks as the number one safety country in South America. Fears are usually borne out of the fact that travellers are visiting somewhere completely unique to them. Chileans, however, have collectively contributed to the research that the country ranks well-above average on a ‘happy’ way of life index. Ultimately, travelling to Chile can be straightforward, hassle-free and relaxing trusting you respect the local culture, social customs and avoid attracting unwanted attention.
Compared to other South American states, driving in Chile is undemanding. We advise that you obtain an international or local driving license and prepare to drive on the right-hand side. Be aware also of numerous toll roads and potentially unamended road surfaces following an earthquake in 2010. Other than that, driving in Chile is relatively routine. It enables visitors’ access to some of the untouched secrets which public transportation cannot fulfil. Car hire can be stressful though, requiring a credit card guarantee and 20% added tax. Alternatively, you could book taxis through your serviced accommodation. Fixed start fees are typically around CH$300, but fares are generally negotiable for longer-distance travel.
Chileans take incredible pride from their country being crowned the World’s Best Adventure Tourism Destination for the last three consecutive years. Opportunities for explorative travel are endless in Chile. Sightseeing extravagance is embodied through the National Parks, including Lauca, Torres Del Paine and Pumalín. These parks are all wonderfully-well preserved and almost completely untouched by human development, allowing their beautiful sceneries, wildlife and accompanying picturesque views to do the talking for them. Unlike anywhere else as well is the Atacama Desert, and its central Moon Valley. Tourists are intrigued by its juxtaposing moon-like remoteness, yet visitor popularity. Overall, there is almost an indescribable amount of activities to do in Chile. However, staying in city apartments enable all travellers the best opportunity to see everything Chile has to offer.
Besides Chile’s incredible natural beauty, the country has prime locations for business conduct. The first location that comes to mind is obviously the financial and business capital Santiago. Many expats choose to reside in this city and its serviced apartments, aware of its centrality and useful transportation links to the country’s best attractions. It is worth exploring the capital first though. Popular attractions include the Centro Cultural Palacio La Moneda, the Chilean National Museum of Fine Arts and the fascinating Museum of Memory and Human Rights. All these amazing attractions radiate Chilean nationalism and surround the main square and centrepiece, Plaza de Armas. The best way to top off a day exploring is taking an aerial tramway to the top of San Cristóbal Hill. Visitors can end a great day with fantastic overlooking views of the captivating Chilean capital.
In summary, it is easy to see the appeal of business travel to Chile. With combing good reputations for adventure exploration and promising economic climate, the demand for more corporate accommodation in Chile is understandable.
Serving the country’s capital and named after the founder of the Chilean Air Force, Santiago’s airport is the busiest and sixth busiest in Chile and South America respectively.
The airport is located just over nine miles northwest of central Santiago. Ordinary buses, minibuses and taxis all enable easy access to serviced accommodation near the airport. This airport will most likely put further distance between itself and other international airport competitors, such as Cerro Moreno or Carriel Sur, when a new terminal is constructed in 2020.
Despite being historically very important, Chilean railways have become gradually more and more abandoned. The tracks have been neglected, leaving only one route available throughout Middle Chile.
As the only subway system in the country, Santiago’s metro is one of the world’s busiest. Expansions have been recent to accommodate the growing number of passengers and battle the slight problem of overcrowding the metro faces.
Punctual and inexpensive are the two best words to describe Chilean buses. Despite the limited funds pumped into the bus system, schedules are well-organised, seats are pretty comfortable, and fares are reasonably priced. Responsible for most bus services in Chile is TurBus, followed by its main competitor company Pullman.
Bear in mind that the quality of services ranges vastly, so consider paying that little bit extra to avoid the worst bus journeys.
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