A distinctive horizontal red stripe across the bank facade identifies member banks. Chilean ATM machines offer menus in Spanish and in English. Traveler's checks can be difficult to cash in Chile. For example, only VISA-franchised banks can cash VISA checks. The situation is similar for American Express checks.
Cash is always good but has no protection against loss.
North American Spanish speakers will notice a different pronunciation. Rates usually include breakfast. Most hotels accept standard credit cards. At larger hotels, foreign travelers can avoid the Chilean tax by showing their passport and paying with a credit card in dollars or other foreign currencies. Travelers should arrange such payments well before checking out because of the extra time and paper work involved.