Chile was one of Latin America’s best kept secrets until it earned the distinction of Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel for 2018. The country’s capital, where nearly half of the population call home, is drawing in newcomers from all over the world. Safe, economically thriving and with a view of the Andes mountains, there’s much to love about Santiago, Chile. So with no further adieu, here are our 7 reasons to live in (or visit!) Santiago.
1. Safety and stability
Chile has made real strides in development in the last few decades. Parts of Santiago could be mistaken for the United States, as tall skyscrapers have popped up along the Andes-filled city skyline. One of the best reasons to live in Santiago, Chile is the country’s economic stability and freedom from political corruption. Chile has also been recognized for its security, ranking as the 30th most peaceful country in the world and the most peaceful in Latin America, according to the Positive Peace Index (2022).
2. Proximity to mountains and the beach
The long and narrow country of Chile is characterized by over 6,000 kilometers of coastline and two parallel sets of mountain ranges: the Andes mountains and the Chilean coastal range. Chileans like to say that in Chile you can ski and go to the beach in the same day. And that’s just the start of it. From the snow-capped mountains of Patagonia to the other-worldly lakes of the Atacama desert, living in Chile offers a whole host of stunning natural beauty to explore.
3. Job opportunities
Santiago, Chile is a place an international professional can genuinely launch their career. The city has ample job opportunities for English speakers. Plus, the city’s growing technology and financial sectors often seek bilingual employees who can use their experiences back home to help improve and grow strategic international relationships. Gaining professional experience abroad in this Latin American job hub is one of the best reasons to live in Santiago.
4. A growing international community
From the Andes mountains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, Chile is a small country separated from the rest of the world. “Chile is an island” you’ll hear locals say. But all of that has been changing rapidly over the past decade, thanks to the influence of expats and immigrants from around the world. As the country becomes less homogenous and more international, Santiago is embracing multiculturalism, including interns abroad.
5. Avocados and more
Way before avocado toast became a thing, Chileans were sipping tea and making delicious “pan con palta” (bread with avocado), a favorite local snack. The country is a major export of this fruit, along with a great deal of other produce, which makes a trip to the famous “La Vega” central market a chef’s paradise. Beyond the fresh market produce, the country also serves a great deal of fresh seafood, thanks to its miles of coast. A tangy ceviche served along with a pisco sour is the best way to enjoy one of Santiago’s many restaurant patios.
6. Chilean Spanish
Although it’s definitely not the easiest Spanish to learn – Chilean Spanish is definitely the most fun. With endless slang and jokes, Chileans really enjoy their word play. Plus, once you master the fast Chilean dialect, you’ll never have trouble understanding Spanish again.
7. Ability to travel around South America
Having Santiago as your base city makes it easy to see other countries nearby. Take a weekend trip to Mendoza or Buenos Aires to get to know Argentina. History and hiking lovers can cross off their bucket list goal of hiking Machu Picchu when their internship ends. Whatever travel fits your taste, living in Chile gives you easier and more affordable access to it all.
Would you like to visit Latin America while doing your internship abroad? Medellin could be the perfect location for you! Read all the reasons why we love Medellin, Colombia and see it for yourself.