opushomes Thanks for your detailed report and response.. I detect some disappointment about your trip to Salta.
From your experiences, for me, the take home points are: language will likely be a barrier and that services during the off-season may be limited even at "luxury" properties even if the rates are pretty high. I am not expecting the train to be running- so that is a good thing and I may choose to stay at more inexpensive places to help manage my expectations.
And thanks for the airport fare information!!