Thanks for your comments on Travellerspoint Bill, the view in the city itself was pretty good, just from elevation the smog effects things.
As far as your comments go you are right on with everything I have read and been told by others and am trying what Spanish I can, I do have a handy phrase book for South American Spanish and try when I can which is appreciated. Will be on a tour away from Santiago all day today so Airshow is unlikely.