My son and his wife want to go to Chile next December. They need tips about how to get the best airfares. Does anyone know of any package vacations that would save them money? <BR> <BR>They want to see many areas in the country. Are there any special deals on air travel WITHIN Chile? What are typical budget hotel rates? My son speaks Spanish well. <BR> <BR>Any advice on not-to-be-missed areas? Thanks so much to anyone who responds!

Hi Diane, <BR>An airfare consolidator should be able to beat regular published fares. How much time will your son and his wife have in Chile? That would determine how much of that wonderful country they can explore. I'd suggest they browse in a few guidebooks from a library for info. There is supposed to be a Lan Chile air pass but I heard it's not that great. If they have the time, buses are wonderful and cheap for distance travel. Budget hotel rates can be $10 and UP, depends what amenities they'll want; the bigger cities and resort areas will be pricier, of course. <BR>I spent 2+ months in Chile last winter and would be happy to share further details. I'm sure they'll love it! <BR> <BR> <BR>

Economic air tickets for travel in chile must be reserved some weeks before depending on trip dates. For large weekends the reservations must be made some months before. <BR>There are some tours that may be very convenient(only a few). A cheaper alternative is to lodge at goods B&B. <BR>A US$ 10 rate for an hotel looks very low, it is wrong. Goods B&B can be reached for about US$ 16. <BR>The musts in Chile are: san pedro de atacama, easter island, valparaiso, lakes district, fjords zone, torres del paine park and antarctica. <BR>for specific information do not hesitate to contact me

Hi Diane, <BR>Re the $10 and UP budget hotels, that's a rockbottom, very basic place. They do exist, but expect to pay more. <BR>I stayed at a great B&B in Santiago in a nice neighborhood for less than $30US, breakfast, private bath, clean.

An outfit called experiencechile.cl offers interesting tours. Don't know about price though. Check out etn.nl/bucketshops/ for consolidator tickets. I have no personal experience with etn, has anybody gotten good deals from them?