Country Overview:

The country of Chile stretches from the stark Atacama Desert near the Peruvian border, through the lush vineyards of the central region, south to the frozen fjords of Patagonia. A land of extraordinary extremes and stunning natural beauty, Chile is simultaneously one of the most modern and stable nations of South America. Chile has in recent years negotiated free-trade agreements with nations across the globe, maintains an open, market-friendly economy, benefits from a dependable financial system, and consistently has one of the lowest rates of unemployment on the continent.

The capital, Santiago, nestles in a valley at the foot of the Andes. Thanks to its central location, the city is the perfect base from which to visit northern and southern Chile. Also thanks to Santiago's central location, in less than an hour and a half west or east you can be strolling on the coast of the Pacific Ocean or skiing in the snowcapped mountains.

Santiago's climate is mild and Mediterranean/Californian. The city of nearly 6 million is quite efficient and easily navigated. Residents are very friendly to foreigners and modern conveniences are universally available, from quiet parks to nightclubs open until dawn.

The Training Center is conveniently located in Providencia, an upscale neighborhood of tree-lined residential streets, high-rise office buildings, and plenty of shopping and restaurants. The Center is only a few blocks from the city's sparkling metro system, and a five-minute walk from Suecia, a five-block hotspot hosting dozens of restaurants and nightclubs.

Chile stretches extensively north to south and from sea to mountain, and therefore has several different climatic zones. Santiago is quite temperate, with distinct seasons. Spring (September to November) tends to be dry, with temperatures ranging from 15º to 26º Celsius (59º to 79º Fahrenheit). Summer (December through February) is warm and dry, with temperatures reaching above 30º C (86º F) during the day, but with comfortable evenings. Fall (March through May) is quite nice, with temperatures from 12º to 26º C (54º to 79º F) and occasional rain. Winter is also pleasant, though relatively wet. Daytime temperatures range between 5º and 15º C (41º and 59º F).