Tips for a smoother stay
Monday, September 29th, 2008When going about your daily life, you want to know exactly what to do in unfamiliar situations to save face and time. So, here are a few tips:
In some shops and chemists you have to line up to take a number and then line up to pay at the cash register (caja). This applies at PreUnic chains, chemists and at some snackshops.
Bear in mind the word ¨snack shops¨ means a licenced drinking and eating place. Also, the word ¨nightclubs¨ means a brothel. To have a drink and dance you go to a “Discoteque” or a “Pub”.
You´ve done a good deed for the day if you tip the teenagers who put your stuff in bags at the shopping centre, usually about CLP$100 , as they are not getting paid.
When shopping at large supermarkets like Lider, Jumbo or Monserrat near our bed and breakfast, you get your bread or fruit weighed and tagged by the attendant before going to the register.
To get served at a delicatessen within the supermarket, you take a number and wait for your turn. The check out operator at the front of the supermarket will usually ask if you want to make a donation taken from your change, to donate to a certain charity organization.
Usually only give a tip of 10% in restaurants if it is not already added to your bill.
Taxi drivers do not expect tips, but if you want to, they´ll certainly accept it!