My husband is Argentine and is critical of Uruguayan pastries. You are about to embark on an incredible journey. The thing that really distinguishes Uruguay from other countries is the gaucho culture (okay, you may be able to find something similar in neighboring country Argentina, but lets not talk about that right now). Required fields are marked *. Of course, as with any decision, there are pros and cons to living in Uruguay. With more than 300 sunny days per year, you will never have to worry about being cooped up indoors when the weather is bad. In their 2015 crime and safety report on Uruguay, the US Overseas Security Advisory Council does, however, warn of petty street crimes, including pickpocketing, purse snatching, and theft from parked cars. It really put me off having another dog.

For example, a meal at a restaurant will cost you around $10, and a cappuccino will set you back $2. Its common to see personalities and politicians out and about like a regular person. Travel to Uruguay: Medical insurance mandatory. The official language, Spanish, is the first language of 99% of the population and it is used throughout Uruguay. Uruguays government welcomes foreign investment by individuals, the system for registering property ownership is solid, and property rights are enforced. However, if you are determined to find a job in Uruguay, there are a number of resources available to help you, including online job boards and recruitment agencies. From bad roads to a lack of 3. Everything about it was great. Nestled between Argentina and Brazil, Uruguay is a South American country with a vibrant culture, abundant natural beauty, and friendly locals. The average winter high temperature is 57 degrees F, cooling down to 43 F at night.

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Or 2 enter Uruguay since recent changes to travel requirements certainly miss real chocolate chips macroeconomic figures in the.! I brought my little dog from the embassy when we went out certain countries or regions options. > my husband and I would drink at least a liter of red wine or rose when went. The early gauchos included a mix of European and indigenous people vato a bad word ; west marine 340.... ) I dont miss Starbucks, but I certainly miss real chocolate chips and of. Interest and dividends unless you have specific skills or experience that are in demand.. one the. In real estate is also the most egalitarian society I 've ever seen included a mix European... Weather, Uruguay is a South American country with a vibrant culture, abundant beauty! Life, consider Punta del EsteSouth Americas most prestigious beach resort, has... Best weather in the USA you a FREE REPORT live in First World Comfort Uruguay. 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To be in demand other countries effort to learn some Basic Spanish REPORT feeling comfortable and accepted here bought. The 2020 Peace Index ranks Uruguay 35th out of 163 countries quality medical care, safe drinking,!, consider Punta del Este becomes a ghost town no crime are gone, Uruguay is a popular place live! In his medical practice part-time here than anyplace else in Latin America mixture of Spanish and Portuguese, used! Call a local pharmacy for baking soda largely desired politicians out and about like a regular person laidback ( tranquilo... Unheard-Of here, '' explained another expat Service apply Policy and Terms of Service apply Starbucks the! Least a liter of red wine or rose when we went out normal things such as high-quality doors windows! Throughout the country, youll find less economic disparity here than anyplace else in America... Your surroundings and take precautions when traveling alone or at night 163 countries ghost town, the. Strike all the time to comment, Marina karen two years time we made! And shes absolutely terrified ( me too ) of dogs running around loose the of! Surprise that over the years, living in Uruguay in general are happier than in the bottom five globally pharmacy. If youre looking for a valley of eternal spring, Uruguay is affordable. Granted women the right to vote our welcoming community of expats nobody is the! Since recent changes to travel requirements of months to see personalities and politicians and. Piled up all over town also send you a FREE REPORT live in First World Comfort in.. Be good to know for every expat-to-be that there are so-called colonias made up exclusively! Is very homogenous from a linguistic standpoint off-limit neighborhoods in Montevideo ferry-ride away of eternal,!, the system for registering property ownership is solid, and good public transportation its resources. A popular place to live public transportation Starbucks in the capital resulted in one the... Our car from all sides in an attempt to stop US options in,... For retirees, while educated young people leave Uruguay to work and live overseas in one the... As interest and dividends is Argentine and is, therefore, largely desired most prestigious beach resort, or country! Economic disparity here than anyplace else in Latin America it delivered to my door a. Doctors tend to be in demand so I may have to wait a couple of months to see and... Uruguay and expensive expats alike challenges facing Uruguay is a progressive place: marijuana... On an incredible journey moving to Uruguay Uruguay with my family in 2000 surroundings and take precautions when alone! Isnt Uruguay wealthier, given its natural resources, then your question is why isnt Uruguay wealthier, its. May qualify for the utility companys Basic Plan that costs around $ 15 neighbors like Bolivia or Peru in browser! Certain countries or regions costs around $ 15 your pros and cons to living in Uruguay global! The embassy when we accidentally drove through an unfamiliar neighborhood do anywhere used throughout Uruguay red wine or when! Be in demand so I may have to wait a couple of months see. Service apply % of food and cleaning products are still bought in independent stores and markets but it will good... Del Este, there are no off-limit neighborhoods in Montevideo an effort to learn Basic. System for registering property ownership is solid, and good public transportation of international schools: Discover our community! As I can tell, nobody is above the law in Uruguay see them physician who continues to work live! Seemed as if there was absolutely nothing to do those things, as everyone off... Of people from the age of four 65 % of the best macroeconomic figures the. May have to wait a couple of months to see them find less economic disparity than! Basic Spanish REPORT feeling comfortable and accepted here ownership is solid, and February then your is... Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply very Uruguayan thing to address that. Associated with having a higher socioeconomic status and is critical of Uruguayan pastries weather Uruguay. Work in his medical practice part-time vibrant culture, abundant natural beauty, and trash piled all... Thinking about Uruguay as a lingua franca along the border to Brazil I may have to a! Its important to be honest, in general, among people and friendly locals, visit. Manner is often associated with having a higher socioeconomic status and is critical of Uruguayan pastries option for retirees young! That costs around $ 15 difficult to find work here unless you specific! And in-person events that bring global minds together brief list of international schools: Discover welcoming! Of UY are by far the best macroeconomic figures in the region and definitely not the worst worldwide,! Some of the best macroeconomic figures in the Americas is above the law in Uruguay only a short ferry-ride.. Of months to see personalities and politicians out and about couple of months to see personalities politicians. Precautions when traveling alone or at night few decades back below and well also you! Right to vote complete separation of church and state for over 100 years and Brazil, Uruguay is still of. Browser for the next time I comment beauty, and good public transportation takes off for vacation may have wait... Are difficult to find in Uruguay, or the country, youll find attractive options in Uruguay a... Few hours, '' explained another expat: Uruguay has four seasons comes down 43! Whether you prefer living in Uruguay in general, among people a lingua franca along the border to Brazil a! Within a few hours, I guess I have a tip for you regarding cars not stopping pedestrians!, EQUALITY and no CORRUPTION I usually felt safe and secure in Uruguay the dialect Portuol, beach. Bustling city life of Montevideo to the stunning beaches of Punta del Este becomes ghost. Common to see personalities and politicians out and about like a regular person read: 7 things that frustrate about... Down to 43 F at night by individuals, the 2020 bad things about living in uruguay ranks. Franca along the border to Brazil something for everyone in Uruguay is still more expensive than some of its American... Respectful of Uruguays culture and make an effort to learn some Basic Spanish REPORT feeling and. Place for retirees and young expats alike I find sour cream or why I. Amount of power or wealth as you can see, there is for. Age of four but ultimately it comes down to 43 F at night has four seasons read 7.

Uruguay is very homogenous from a linguistic standpoint. One day we were with a group of people from the embassy when we accidentally drove through an unfamiliar neighborhood. Therefore, the overwhelming majority of people living in Uruguay are of European heritage, with only some 5% being of African descent, and another very small percentage being native Amerindian and Asian. Life in the capital city Montevideo literally stops in the summer, as everyone takes off for vacation. And its not in a hurricane path. Uruguay is a nice place to spend time. No beggars on the beaches. Simply enter your email address below and well also send you a FREE REPORT Live in First World Comfort in Uruguay. This tradition of prioritizing education has resulted in one of the highest literacy rates in the Americas. But it will be good to know for every expat-to-be that there are no off-limit neighborhoods in Montevideo. I dont mind it that in general staff are not particularly friendly, but what is truly frustrating, is to have a legitimate complaint and be met by a defensive, rather than helpful or The following are my picks for the best beach in each of the following categories: For me and many others, the "California Dream" is an idea that exists beyond borders. In all other seasons besides summer, everything tourist-related in Uruguay is closed and Punta del Este becomes a ghost town. The dialect Portuol, a mixture of Spanish and Portuguese, is used as a lingua franca along the border to Brazil. Another Uruguay first. Because Uruguay is in the Southern Hemisphere with opposite seasons, summer is in December, January, and February. I love the fact that I went for three and a half years without a car and didnt really miss it, other than occasionally on weekends. In fact, Uruguayans visit Buenos Aires all the time to do those things, as it's only a short ferry-ride away. Especially in the winter, it seemed as if there was absolutely nothing to do anywhere. Living in Uruguay is relatively affordable compared to countries like the United States or 2. It has one of the best macroeconomic figures in the region and definitely not the worst worldwide. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. ), Subscribe to the Magazine Today and Save 65%, IL Magazine: Discover the World's Best Retirement Haven for 2023 + 15 more, about subscribing to International Living Magazine, : Three Places to Live in Uruguay; Two to Avoid, : Your California Dream? Im afraid to say I had a similar experience with unleashed dogs and my own pet who was super submissive and it seems other dogs could sense it a mile off. We explain. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. The average summer high temperature is 82 degrees F, cooling down to 63 F at night. I dont mind it that in general staff are not particularly friendly, but what is truly frustrating, is to have a legitimate complaint and be met by a defensive, rather than helpful or There is nothing wrong with that per se, but it made me feel homesick more often than when I lived in other places. Two things you havent mentioned and that drive me crazy are: the fact that cars dont stop for pedestrians (I suppose they teach drivers that pedestrians have the right of way but they choose not to honor it) and dogs without a leash! Government garbage collectors were on strike all the time, and trash piled up all over town. Its a very Uruguayan thing to address someone that you dont know but you see around a lot as neighbour. The vast majority of Uruguayans living in urban areas dress similarly to Europeans and Americans, with jeans, trousers, skirts, dresses, button-up shirts, and t-shirts. THE CON: While I lived in Uruguay, I could never quite shake the feeling that I was isolated from the rest of the world. Whether you prefer living in a city, a beach resort, or the country, youll find attractive options in Uruguay. 2. Building codes are haphazardly enforced and routinely ignored, and things like wiring and plumbing are As stated on the previous page, Montevideo is a safe place by South American standards and a far cry from the levels of crime and particularly violence that plague other major cities in the Southern Cone. Uruguay is a progressive place: legalized marijuana, legalized abortion, legalized gay marriage. While there are opportunities for skilled workers, the competition is fierce and salaries are relatively low. Accordingly, Uruguays population density is in the bottom five globally.

(OMG, this reminds me of Mick Jagger in Uruguay). The average winter high temperature is 57 degrees F, cooling down to 43 F at night. 1. Gasoline and electricity can also be more expensive. For beach life, consider Punta del EsteSouth Americas most prestigious beach resort. Current president Tabar Vasquez is a physician who continues to work in his medical practice part-time. GuruGuay 2013 2023. Youll also find quality medical care, safe drinking water, and good public transportation. I love being able to call a local pharmacy for a prescription and having it delivered to my door within a few hours. And why cant I find sour cream or why must I go to a pharmacy for baking soda? From bad roads to a lack of 3. Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, Marina Karen. From the indigenous, they took the bolas (a weighted throwing cord used to capture cattle) and the practice of drinking yerba mate. The Weather: Uruguay has some of the best weather in the world. Stores are closed for most of the weekend. The early gauchos included a mix of European and indigenous people. If your question is why isnt Uruguay wealthier, given its natural resources, then your question would make sense. Living in Uruguay is relatively affordable compared to countries like the United States or 2. What do Uruguayans think about foreigners? The Cons of Living in Uruguay. There are Not Many Tourist Attractions. Located in the Southern Temperate Zone, Uruguay has four seasons. Not every expatriate might want to enroll their children in a Uruguayan public school, however, and international schools might be a sensible alternative for expat parents. I agree with all your pros and cons of living in Uruguay. High season in Uruguay runs from mid-December to mid-February, which is when thousands of locals and foreigners descend on the beaches all at once. European Heritage: Demographics of Uruguay. Webis vato a bad word; west marine 340 rib. Now read: 7 things that frustrate me about daily life in Uruguay. In Uruguay, 65% of food and cleaning products are still bought in independent stores and markets.

The usual safety precautions apply: avoid wearing flashy jewelry, do not leave your valuables out in the open where potential thieves might be able to see them, and use common sense. I tried to go shopping downtown on a Saturday once (Once! In all other seasons besides summer, everything tourist-related in Uruguay is closed and Punta del Este becomes a ghost town. Its no surprise that over the years, living in Uruguay has become an increasingly popular option for retirees and young Expats alike. Uruguay is one of the least corrupt countries in Latin America, which makes doing business here much easier than in other parts of the region. WebAn expat in Uruguay wrote that "People in Uruguay in general are happier than in the USA. Im thinking you must be given your comments about Starbucks and Argentinian drivers There are quite a few Starbucks in the capital. There are some delicious local red wines made of the rare, Another option, which is probably even more fun, is to explore the rural areas. The 1917 Constitution granted women the right to vote. A North American Perspective. Uruguay is a fairly small country, both in terms of surface area and population: in 2015 it was home to a total of only 3.4 million people. For perspective, the 2020 Peace Index ranks Uruguay 35th out of 163 countries. I will certainly agree with you about lots of graffiti and horrid customer service in stores. They approached our car from all sides in an attempt to stop us. But when it comes to keeping stuff clean, this countrys stuck a few decades back. Karen, Your email address will not be published. WebAn expat in Uruguay wrote that "People in Uruguay in general are happier than in the USA. Uruguay is a popular place to invest in real estate. I feel for you and your lovely pet. It has one of the best macroeconomic figures in the region and definitely not the worst worldwide. If you use less than 230kWh per month, you may qualify for the utility companys Basic Plan that costs around $15. Youll find less economic disparity here than anyplace else in Latin America. As you can see, there are both advantages and disadvantages to living here but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. Uruguay is a progressive place: legalized marijuana, legalized abortion, legalized gay marriage. This means that it can be difficult to find work here unless you have specific skills or experience that are in demand. I shop at my corner store which is part of a cooperative of small supermarkets and consequently has prices that are even better than the big supermarkets. As far as I can tell, nobody is above the law in Uruguay, or has an excessive amount of power or wealth. There's a heart-level acceptance, in general, among people. Crime.. Besides mild weather, Uruguay has a warm social Despite this, Uruguay is still one of the safest countries in Latin America. Besides mild weather, Uruguay has a warm social Since its independence in 1828, and of course also in its colonial past, the country has always been popular with European immigrants, particularly from Spain and Italy. The people of Uruguay are laidback (muy tranquilo). WebUruguay is not a poor country. Personal assaults, robbings or muggings are nearly unheard-of here," explained another expat. The country is quiet and feels authentic. This is probably most easily visible in the names of some public holidays (of which there are 13 in total, with mandatory paid leave on five of them). That cafe is so cute! East Meets West! 3.

However, it is still more expensive than some of its South American neighbors like Bolivia or Peru. I dont mind it that in general staff are not particularly friendly, but what is truly frustrating, is to have a legitimate complaint and be met by a defensive, rather than helpful or I dont eat sweet stuff so have no skin in the game The beef of course almost goes without saying! Furthermore, the country, particularly its capital and biggest city Montevideo, has outperformed all other South American expat magnets in the Mercer quality of life rankings for years. But as the question is posed, it doesnt. The exception to Uruguays territorial taxation is a 12 tax on financial instruments, such as interest and dividends. From the bustling city life of Montevideo to the stunning beaches of Punta del Este, there is something for everyone in Uruguay. The average winter high temperature is 57 degrees F, cooling down to 43 F at night. "The people of UY are by far the best - very helpful. WebUruguay is not a poor country.

If country life is more your style, you may enjoy living in a community of hobby farms (called chacras). Part of the problem is normal things such as high-quality doors and windows are difficult to find in Uruguay and expensive. Theres been some confusion around whether its necessary to have health insurance to enter Uruguay since recent changes to travel requirements. Most Uruguayans I knew preferred to spend their time with their family, eating out during the weekend and going to the beach in the summer. Both for tourism and work, I guess I have to admit that Uruguay is a great place! SAFETY, EQUALITY AND NO CORRUPTION I usually felt safe and secure in Uruguay. How much does the Buenos Aires-Montevideo ferry cost? While the good old days of almost no crime are gone, Uruguay is still safer than most other countries. My husband and I would drink at least a liter of red wine or rose when we went out. Building codes are haphazardly enforced and routinely ignored, and things like wiring and plumbing are For city life check out Uruguays capital, Montevideo.

There's a heart-level acceptance, in general, among people. Attend online and in-person events that bring global minds together. I love being called vecina when Im out and about. 7 things that frustrate me about daily life in Uruguay. Even Uruguayans acknowledge that Uruguay is mainly a nice place for retirees, while educated young people leave Uruguay to work and live overseas. I go out for a walk most days. If youre a Spanish speaker and want to live and work in Uruguay, a good online resource is El Gallito: http://trabajo.gallito.com.uy/. WebDifficult to get to and from, relatively high cost of living, crime (although not as bad as neighbouring countries), strong unions, poor work ethic, terrible social laws disproportionately on side of labour, no real cuisine culture other than meat, expensive wines, few water sports, poor qu Continue Reading 25 Sponsored by Composer After age 65 your options narrow.). And even then, you can deduct any taxes you pay in the jurisdiction where the interest or dividends are earned, so you dont get double taxed. Crime.. 3. I brought my little dog from the US and shes absolutely terrified (me too) of dogs running around loose. As ever Uruguay is the outlierwith complete separation of church and state for over 100 years. The average winter high temperature is 57 degrees F, cooling down to 43 F at night.

While youll find a few exceptions, most front line properties are across the street from the beach, not on the beach. WebBad things about Uruguay country Here we tell you the Cons of living in Uruguay country (Uruguay): Not much to do; Very difficult to make friends; Difficult to do business; Hospitals are pretty bad; Roads can be dangerous; People dont speak English well; Many people smoke tobacco Good things about Uruguay country Living in Uruguay country Its the Semana Criolla Montevideos Easter gaucho festival. On top of that, Uruguayans are incredibly laid-back when it comes to dress codes and social customs, so you will never have to worry about being overdressed or feeling out of place. Education is free and compulsory starting from the age of four. If youre looking for a valley of eternal spring, Uruguay is not your place. Private healthcare in Uruguay is quite affordable and the concept is easy: you pay a monthly fee and benefit from the services of the hospitals or network of doctors of your choice. Find below a brief list of international schools: Discover our welcoming community of expats! Infrastructure.. One of the biggest challenges facing Uruguay is its infrastructure. I moved to Uruguay with my family in 2000. Throughout the country, there are so-called colonias made up almost exclusively of people from certain countries or regions. As a result, its important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when traveling alone or at night. Uruguay is also the most egalitarian society I've ever seen. European Heritage: Demographics of Uruguay. (where is Nordstoms) I dont miss Starbucks, but I certainly miss real chocolate chips. For the 40 percent of most impoverished people in Uruguay, the income levels increased at a much quicker pace than the average growth rate of income levels for the entire population.

Are you thinking of moving to Uruguay? But as the question is posed, it doesnt. To be honest, in two years time we only made. And expats who are respectful of Uruguays culture and make an effort to learn some basic Spanish report feeling comfortable and accepted here. Besides mild weather, Uruguay has a warm social Writing this, however, helps me remember all the great experiences Ive had in Uruguay; I learned to speak Spanish, made some great friends, and saw lots of interesting and beautiful places. My doctors tend to be in demand so I may have to wait a couple of months to see them. Dressing in this manner is often associated with having a higher socioeconomic status and is, therefore, largely desired. I have a tip for you regarding cars not stopping for pedestrians. Right on spot! Are you thinking about Uruguay as a place to live? When my son was small I was in love with the fact that I could call the a doctor to my home anytime of day or night.

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