Spanish is not necessary to survive traveling in Chile, but the more you speak the more you will get out of the experience. People in the service industry in Santiago and tourist towns in the south usually speak some English and are happy to practice. You will be able to get from place to place and order food, etc. You won't be able to get too far off the beaten path or share in the stories that really enrichen a trip to a place like Chile.
I speak fluent Spanish, specifically Chilean. It's full of slang and sarcasm and the Chileans love to joke around. I make a point of sharing this with my guests and will often spend an evening translating stories while enjoying a meal and wine. Chileans are the nicest people I have ever met and whenever my clients get to experience this first hand I feel like the trip is much better.
I speak fluent Spanish, specifically Chilean. It's full of slang and sarcasm and the Chileans love to joke around. I make a point of sharing this with my guests and will often spend an evening translating stories while enjoying a meal and wine. Chileans are the nicest people I have ever met and whenever my clients get to experience this first hand I feel like the trip is much better.
