Argentina, Chile and Uruguay FAQs (2)

By: Wayne Bernhardson

Is driving safe? Are rental cars expensive?

All three countries have extensive road systems, but in some rural areas roads are rough and bumpy. Highway safety is probably better in Chile and Uruguay than in Argentina, which has many "individualistic" drivers and ineffective police patrols.

Car rentals are more expensive than in North America, but in some cases less so than in Europe. Taking rental cars across borders, most commonly from Chile to Argentina, requires additional paperwork and fees.

Gasoline is most expensive in Uruguay at about US$1 per liter; in Chile and Argentina it's cheaper at about 55 to 70 US cents per liter. Fuel prices fluctuate with the international oil market.

Is it safe to travel in these countries?

In a nutshell, yes, but with some discretion. Chile is probably the safest of the three, with a stable government and economy, and a highly professional police force. Outside a handful of outer neighborhoods in the capital of Santiago, even petty crime is unusual. The same is true of Uruguay, though its economy is not quite so robust.

From late 2001, Argentina experienced several months of political and economic instability, but even this did not endanger visiting foreigners, and most neighborhoods in Buenos Aires and elsewhere are safe at any time of day or night. It is better to avoid political demonstrations unless you are confident that you understand the situation.

How are the people? What about etiquette?

It's hard to generalize without stereotyping, but Argentines have a reputation as extroverts, while many Chileans and Uruguayans tend to be a bit more reserved. But people from all three countries generally welcome foreign visitors, and treat them with interest and great respect.

When dealing with people in general, and government officials in particular, it's polite to preface your question or request with the appropriate salutation: buenos días (good morning), buenas tardes (good afternoon) or buenas noches (good evening).

Do they speak English?

English is widely understood in the Argentine capital of Buenos Aires, the Chilean capital of Santiago, and the Uruguayan capital of Montevideo, and in the principal tourist destinations in all three countries. But in more remote areas it's rewarding, and often essential, to make an effort to speak Spanish. Italian is widely understood in Argentina.

Is it safe to travel with children?

All three countries are child-friendly, and public health standards are high enough that ordinary precautions should be sufficient. The presence of children often makes it easier to meet and talk with people.