I did have contacts in Chile, but didn't use them. I forgot to take an address of an old friend and found that her emailaddress I had was outdated. I didn't want to bother a niece of a colleague on short notice, as I had never met her. So yes, a travel guide, a map, local newspapers, travellers stories and old info in my head have guided me throughout my trip.

I actually quite liked Santiago, so the two days I spent there were nice imho.

My trip was brilliant, just came back showing the pictures to my parents. Someday I have to enter your country from upnorth and see the rest.

(I am Dutch)