The three resorts of El Colorado, Valle Nevado and La Parva are (sometimes!) linked, you can buy a pass for all three. We mostly spent our time at El Colorado, there's lots of lovely off-piste, and a few fun black runs as well as plenty of reds and blues. There are no trees to crash into (you're more likely to find cacti), and you get an amazing view of Santiago from the slopes! Beware of altitude sickness on the way up, its an extremely steep and windy road (don't eat your lunch just before going!!)

Prices for hotels, lift passes etc are about the same as in France, equipment rental is a bit cheaper. You can find second hand shops in Santiago selling all the clothes and if you're lucky you might find some second hand boots in your size.