Santiago, Chile

What type of social life can someone expect in Santiago?

When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in Santiago, they replied:

"Generally fine, but as an expat one must acknowledge that FAMILY to Chileans is the most important thing. So, with large families, they often do not have the inclination or time to meet with others. Unlike in UK, where the cameraderie centres around the local sports club, pub, community activity," remarked another expat in Santiago.

"See earlier comments about importance of FAMILY to Chileans, to detriment of mixing with other persons or foreign nationals. The wealthier Chileans usually speak english as a natural course from their better schooling, past professional experiences overseas, etc. Conversely, the less wealthy masses have little contact with english, making friends with this sector harder. Chilean Spanish is also unique, with a different vocabulary to mainstream Spanish, and spoken very fast with a strong local accent," remarked another expat in Santiago.

What advice to expats in Santiago have about housing?