Page 39 - Across the Andes: Chile’s Atacama Desert & Argentina’s Northwest

Chile: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in large cities for major purchases and in
shops associated with the tourist trade (souvenirs, museum gift shops, etc.), but may not
be accepted by smaller shops or restaurants. Some businesses add a surcharge of 2-4% to
use a credit card. Credit cards are generally not accepted in more remote locations, such as
Easter Island.

Argentina: Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Buenos Aires for major purchases and
in shops associated with the tourist trade (souvenirs, museum gift shops, etc.), but may not
be accepted by smaller shops or restaurants. Some businesses add a surcharge of 5-10% to use
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Uruguay: Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. Some smaller
Mom-and-Pop type establishments may not accept credit cards, so it’s always a good idea to
have some cash.

Notify Card Providers
Many credit card companies and banks have fraud alert departments that will freeze your card
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an accidental security block, it is a good idea to notify your credit card company and/or bank
you will be using your cards abroad. You can do this by calling their customer service number
a week or two before your departure. Some banks or credit card companies will also let you do
this online.
You should also double-check what phone number you could call if you have a problem with a
card while you are abroad. Don’t assume you can use the 1-800 number printed on the back of
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Tipping Guidelines

Of course, whether you tip, and how much, is always at your own discretion. Listed below are
our recommendations for the tips that are not included in your tour price:

O.A.T. Trip Leader: It is customary to express a personal “thank you” to your O.A.T. Trip
Leader at the end of your trip, especially if he or she has provided you with individual
service. As a guideline, many travelers give $7-$10 USD (or equivalent in local currency) per
person per day.

Housekeeping staff at hotels: $1 per night

Waiters: Your Trip Leader will tip waiters for included meals. If you are dining on your own,
10-15% is customary, and tips are usually left in cash. Most restaurants charge a table fee,
called servicio de mesa, which is not a tip, but more like a cover charge.

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