Santiago Is Pleasant Adjunct to Skiing

Where to stay: Hotel Plaza San Francisco, Avenida Libertador O’Higgins 816, is the newest downtown hotel, run by German-owned Kempinski chain. From $110 U.S. for two. Call (800) 426-3135.

Hotel Carrera, Calle Teatinos 180, is a traditionally elegant hotel on Plaza de la Libertad overlooking the presidential palace. From $150 for two. (800) 448-8355.

Sheraton San Cristobal, Avenida Santa Maria 1742, along the Mapocho River near the shopping district. From $135 for two. (800) 334-8484.

Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza, Avenida Libertador O’Higgins 136, is an ultra-modern hotel. From $139 for two. (800) 465-4329.

Hostel Foresta, Victor Subercaseaux 353, has small, elegantly furnished rooms overlooking Santa Lucia Park at $45 double.

Orly, Avenida Pedro de Valdivia 27, is an intimate, European-style hotel in the heart of the Providencia shopping district. Rate: $45 double.

Where to eat: Giratorio, 11 de Septiembre 2250. In Santiago, telephone 232-1827. Elegant revolving restaurant on top of a 16-floor high-rise. Dinner about $20 per person.

Venezia, Pio Nono 200. Phone 370-900. Haunt of the Bohemian crowd; guitar music most evenings. Under $10 per person.

Chez Henry, Portal Fernandiz Concha 962. 696-6612. Great desserts. Under $10 per person.

Martin Carrera, Isidora Goyenechea 3471. Call 231-2798. Reportedly one of Chile’s best restaurants, specializing in international and local cuisine. Dinners from $20 per person.

Enoteca Restaurant de Turismo, Cerro San Cristobal Park. 232-1748. Lunch and dinners feature Chilean and international dishes; evening folklore music show. From $15 per person.

Cafe Torres, Avenida Libertador O’Higgins 1570. Informal dining in Santiago’s oldest coffeehouse/bar. Good spot for a cocktail, light meal or flaming desserts; tango shows on weekends. Dinner under $10 per person.

Los Buenos Muchachos, Avenida Richard Cumming 1083. Call 724-637. Traditional Chilean dishes, including seafood, and live Latin American music. Dinner about $15 per person.

(Prices above do not include beverages.)