mailing duffle ahead

[Rosina Lila]

Hello,
The post offices in Spain have a number-dispensing machine right by the door. The machines are about one meter high, one foot square, cream colored and have two buttons. Pressing the top button ("enviar"- to send) you'll get a number; you can then go and sit down comfortably until the number is shown on the screens above the counters. (In New York City post offices we have to stand, standing, on line, for however long it takes..... sigh!) You'll need the number to buy stamps, boxes, etc.
When you get a box, large padded envelope, or some such, ask the clerk for the form to fill up. On the form, write your own name as the remitter and as the addressee, and hand the filled-form in. The clerk will validate the form, affix a copy to the package, keep a copy, and give you one.  You'll need the copy to claim your package in Santiago, and you'll also need to show your passport as identification.
The post offices also have tables, etc., where you can do the packaging.
If you are sending packages to the States, there is another form to fill listing the package contents., etc. You may use the regular rate, air mail, which is fairly costly, or you may opt for the "Economy" rate, by ship, which doesn't cost much but which delays the arrival of the package.
On the whole, I find the post office services in Spain just wonderful.
Regards,
Rosina