I usually stay in Providencia, and it is quite central. As for the time change, it will be +2 to 5 hours from the continental US in January. Uber is usually fine, street taxis are generally fine and I don't avoid them, except in the Bellavista neighborhood at night),
https://santiagoando.com/centro-arte...-los-dominicos is a nice place to spend an hour or so - it is at the end of the
#1 metro line (and you'll likely be staying close to a station on this line). Lots of artisan craftwork. Also, if the day is relatively clear (and you'll likely have a lot of haze), the views from the Costanera Center tower are spectacular. This is probably a short walk from your hotel. If your room isn't ready yet, it is a good nearby activity.
Costanera Center You can't miss it. Plenty of other things to see/do (most located toward the city center - opposite the direction of the Pueblito los dominicos.)