What part of Santiago? At this moment, I'm staying at a hotel in Las Condes. This part of the city seems very safe, but I've taken the subway to other parts of the city, and never felt unsafe in those other places either. Part of my strategy is to blend in with my attire, mannerisms, and attitude. My Spanish is currently rudimentary at best, but I still manage not to stick out like a sore thumb and "shout" that I'm a tourist with my actions.
If you stand out like a tourist, it seems like no matter where you are in the world, you will be taken advantage of.
If you stand out like a tourist, it seems like no matter where you are in the world, you will be taken advantage of.