82 CultureShock! Chile
coastline commonly known as la cuna (the cradle). It is a
comfortable space for two people to lie in without being seen.
The name refers to the number of babies conceived here.Hotels and Motels
The difference between a hotel and a motel in Chile is not
so simple. A hotel is a hotel, but a motel—unless clearly
marked motel de turismo—is strictly for lovers. Since many
people lived with their parents until they got married, couples
needed a place to go to be intimate. People having affairs
also needed somewhere private to go. These needs were met
by the motels. It is quite a fascinating set-up. Upon entering
a motel in your car, you see no one and no one sees you. A
voice tells you which room is yours and the door is opened.
After parking, a huge curtain is pulled closed, hiding your
car so that other patrons will not recognise it or note your
license plate number. Once in the room, you order room
service and pay through a revolving window in the wall.
Some motels are just rooms, others have hot tubs, heart
shaped beds, porn, etc.Make sure you know the difference between a hotel and a motel!