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Chile appeals for tourists to return

Fri, 05 Mar 2010

The earthquake that hit Chile last weekend hasn’t affected many of the country’s tourist attractions according to the tourism authorities there.

The tourism infrastructure has suffered little damage due mainly to the anti-seismic building codes and the emergency services swift response which helped to minimise the devastation.

Pablo Moll, executive director of Turismo Chile said, "The people are working hard to get the country back on its feet quickly. We look forward to continuing to welcome travellers and are making every effort to make them feel safe and secure."

The Foreign Office however are still warning against travelling to the region Maule and Biobo south of Santiago unless its essential. This is also one of the areas closest to the epicentre of the earthquake including Concepción which is still subject to a dusk to dawn curfew as there has been widespread looting.

A tourist board spokesperson said that electricity and phone lines had been restored in Santiago and the city’s transport system was fully functional. The Foreign Office however say that the electricity and water supply were sporadic and communications not fully operational.

The passenger terminal of Santiago airport was damaged but the runways escaped damage. Some airlines such as Air France, Tam Airlines and LAN Chile have resumed services.

British travellers in Chile at present should check with their airline or tour operator before setting off to the airport. Travel companies are doing their utmost to fly travellers back home.
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