An Expat Talks about Living in San Salvador, El Salvador

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

San Salvador

How long have you lived there?

2.5 years

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

I recommend checking into the listing on this web site under El Salvador.

William Russell
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

Catholicism dominates in El Salvador, but Protestant churches have been established under the Evangelicals. There is a Jewish presence that developed under European immigrants. There is a small enclave of Palestinians, but they have been absorbed in the Catholic ranks, however the segregation they have suffered over the years has served to keep their heritage alive. One of the interesting city landmarks is a monument to Yassir Arafat on Jerusalem Blvd.

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

The apparel manufacturing industry is the largest employer now that agriculture is no longer predominant. Dell has a large call center in San Salvador that is a place of employment for a lot of younger Salvadorans. Jobs are hard to come by, so a lot of Salvadorans are leaving the country for jobs in the U.S., Canada and Europe.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

Family life is very important to the Salvadorans. Work dominates during the week and Saturdays for those that have to put in a 6 day work week, but you see families spending time together whenever possible. It's one of the things I like most about living in Latin America. I am very fortunate that I have been dating a Salvadoran for most of my stay. She has a large extended family which I have been adopted into.

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Have a job before you arrive. Ex-pats have a hard time finding work.