El Tunco, El Salvador
Last updated on Jul 10, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees discuss what it is like to live in El Tunco, El Salvador: Cost of living, Finding a home, Meeting People and more.
What do I need to know before moving to El Tunco?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to El Tunco, they said:
"El Tunco is a popular destination for expats, particularly those who enjoy surfing, as it is known for its world-class waves. The cost of living in El Tunco is relatively low compared to many Western countries, but it's important to budget for unexpected expenses. Spanish is the official language of El Salvador, so learning the language will make your life easier and help you integrate into the local community. El Tunco is a small town, so while it has basic amenities, it doesn't have the same level of services or variety of goods as a larger city. Healthcare facilities in El Tunco are basic, so for serious medical issues, you may need to travel to the capital, San Salvador. Safety can be a concern in El Salvador, so it's important to take precautions, such as avoiding certain areas at night and not displaying signs of wealth. The climate in El Tunco is tropical, with a wet and dry season, and it can get very hot, so it's important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. The local cuisine is a mix of indigenous and Spanish influences, with a focus on fresh seafood, beans, and corn. El Salvador uses the US dollar as its currency, which can make financial transactions easier for American expats. It's also important to understand the local customs and etiquette, such as greeting people with a handshake and maintaining eye contact during conversations. Lastly, while El Salvador has made strides in improving its infrastructure, power outages and water shortages can still occur, so it's a good idea to be prepared for these eventualities," wrote one member in El Tunco.
How do I find a place to live in El Tunco?
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to El Tunco?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in El Tunco?
- What is the average cost of housing in El Tunco?
- How do I meet people in El Tunco?
- What do I need to know before retiring in El Tunco?
- What should I pack when moving to El Tunco?
- Where should I setup a bank account in El Tunco?
- Will I be able to find a job in El Tunco?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about El Tunco?
- What type of social life can someone expect in El Tunco?
- What is the social scene like in El Tunco?
- What advice to expats in El Tunco have about housing?
- What are medical services in El Tunco like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in El Tunco?
- Is the cost of living in El Tunco high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in El Tunco?
- Why do people move to El Tunco?