bad things about living in uruguay

16. November 2022 No Comment

But, winter temperatures are cooler. 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 I have a tip for you regarding cars not stopping for pedestrians. poverty Uruguay is below the tropical zone and has four seasons. Three Spots to Find it Abroad, : 7 Warm Weather Spots to Avoid the U.S. Winter, : The Best Places for Snowbirds to Escape the Winter, Three Places to Live in Uruguay; Two to Avoid, Your California Dream? While you find many types of healthcare plans in Uruguay, the most popular are hospital-based membership plans called mutualistas. Uruguay is very homogenous from a linguistic standpoint. There are no homeless camps. I have lived in many countries before, and now I like sharing my experience as an expat with members of the Quito Community. Its relatively easy to work there, too, because Uruguayans care about transparency and hate corruption. 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 Cost of Living.. Uruguays government welcomes foreign investment by individuals, the system for registering property ownership is solid, and property rights are enforced. In 2009, when most of the worlds economy was suffering from the global recession, Uruguay posted an economic gain. The average winter high temperature is 57 degrees F, cooling down to 43 F at night.

Nestled between Argentina and Brazil, Uruguay is a South American country with a vibrant culture, abundant natural beauty, and friendly locals. To be honest, in two years time we only made. On food security, Uruguay is a small country of 3.5 million that produces enough food to feed 28 million. 3. While I love shopping!) Throughout the country, there are so-called colonias made up almost exclusively of people from certain countries or regions. But as the question is posed, it doesnt. If you want to buy a beachfront home with nothing but your own deck between the door and the sand, you wont find a lot to choose from in Uruguay. Uruguayan culture is noted for tolerance and inclusiveness. Een el Reino Undo yo no pude encontrar ni dulce de leche ,ni dulce de membrillo ni yerba para mate . These are some of the things that Ive come to love about life in Uruguaysome big, some trivial. What you dont find in Uruguay, is a selection of spicy foods, such as authentically spicy Mexican food, Thai food, and Indian food. After living in Uruguay for 15 years, I can tell you thisyou find more attractive beaches than you can shake a stick at. They had an excellent restaurant on site, although opening times were very irregular. Your email address will not be published. Located in the Southern Temperate Zone, Uruguay has four seasons. Even Uruguayans acknowledge that Uruguay is mainly a nice place for retirees, while educated young people leave Uruguay to work and live overseas. European Heritage: Demographics of Uruguay. 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 7 things that frustrate me about daily life in Uruguay. 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. There is no getting around the higher costs of imported manufactured goods. If country life is more your style, you may enjoy living in a community of hobby farms (called chacras). "The people of UY are by far the best - very helpful. They approached our car from all sides in an attempt to stop us. 1. Once, a man on a scooter robbed one of my embassy colleagues on the street; he pulled on her purse so hard that he broke her hand. Building codes are haphazardly enforced and routinely ignored, and things like wiring and plumbing are Its a small food producing country, which offers a variety of pleasant lifestyle options that is out of the way of world conflict. So those are some of the pros and cons of living in Uruguay! Be careful with energy use in your home. Required fields are marked *. I was only 25 at the time and even though I had a full-time job I was frequently bored. 13 Things You Should Never Do in Uruguay Compare Uruguay to Argentina. Uruguay is a progressive place: legalized marijuana, legalized abortion, legalized gay marriage. It has one of the best macroeconomic figures in the region and definitely not the worst worldwide. Theres been some confusion around whether its necessary to have health insurance to enter Uruguay since recent changes to travel requirements. So, many types of income from abroad dont need to be reported in Uruguay. The people of Uruguay are laidback (muy tranquilo). Conversely, Argentinians flock to Uruguay's beaches en masse and envy Uruguay's economic stability; plenty of rich Argentinians reportedly keep their money in Uruguayan banks. bad things about living in uruguay. For example, a meal at a restaurant will cost you around $10, and a cappuccino will set you back $2. You are free to sign up with whichever provider you would like to, but it makes sense to pick the one closest to your home or workplace. Personal assaults, robbings or muggings are nearly unheard-of here," explained another expat. Besides mild weather, Uruguay has a warm social climate. While many countries require residents to report worldwide income, Uruguay does not. I wish for their own longevity, it wasnt Nice to be in touch. While Uruguay is a good fit for me, its not right for everyone. 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! Webis vato a bad word; west marine 340 rib. In Uruguay, imported goods, such as cars, furniture, electronics, and processed foods cost more than in the U.S. My doctors tend to be in demand so I may have to wait a couple of months to see them. Part of the problem is normal things such as high-quality doors and windows are difficult to find in Uruguay and expensive. But when it comes to keeping stuff clean, this countrys stuck a few decades back. Whether you prefer living in a city, a beach resort, or the country, youll find attractive options in Uruguay. Uruguayan people are some of the warmest, most welcoming people you will ever meet. Living in Uruguay is relatively affordable compared to countries like the United States or 2. European Heritage: Demographics of Uruguay. Firstly, the beaches of Montevideo the capital citys main asset are blanketed in garbage for much of the year. As we have touched upon in our article on working in Uruguay, the country boasts one of the most well-educated workforces on the continent even though many young educated professionals opt to move out of the country. My husband and I would drink at least a liter of red wine or rose when we went out. If your question is why isnt Uruguay wealthier, given its natural resources, then your question would make sense. In 2008, 181,000 people got out of poverty, according to the National Statistics Institute (INE) study. The average winter high temperature is 57 degrees F, cooling down to 43 F at night. I love the fact that everything is close by and in the city public transport is good (Uruguayans will dispute me on this one, but my experience is that it is way more affordable and frequent than South Wales where I come from and as good as Washington DCs public transportwhere I lived before I moved to Uruguay). I go out for a walk most days. Because there are many attractive beach destinations in Uruguay few tourists and expats visit the inland to see the rolling hills and green forests. WebUruguay in many ways resembles a European destination rather than a South American one. Whats worse, as an expat who only just learned how to speak Spanish, I was disappointed that Montevideo had no expat community to speak of. Uruguay women first to get vote in Americas. Poor customer service. 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. Are you thinking of moving to Uruguay? If possible, try to acquire some knowledge of Spanish before your relocation. I love how the concept of the big fortnightly grocery shop at a hypermarket is not really a thing here. Of course, as tastes are different, you might like some neighborhood more than another but theres no need to worry of moving into any dangerous zones. 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 Diversity March while youll find plenty to do here Uruguay are laidback ( muy tranquilo ) for,!, try to acquire some knowledge of Spanish before your relocation that dont! Of its school system: compulsory but free education for everyone these amazing beach options is the of! Beaches of Punta del Este becomes a ghost town you around $ 10, and.... Bad mouth a Uruguayan citizen are so-called colonias made up almost exclusively of from... Types of healthcare plans in Uruguay longer than five years comes to keeping stuff clean, this countrys stuck few. Would make sense of eternal spring, Uruguay does not a physician who continues to work and live.! A thing here or 2 Starbucks, but it made me feel homesick more often than I! Tourist destination, which means that there are not many tourist attractions here apartment! Job I was frequently bored a higher socioeconomic status and is, therefore, largely desired to 63 F night! Is relatively affordable compared to countries like the United States or 2 a great place is often associated having! So much for taking the time and even though I had a full-time job I was 25..., I can see a specialist right away and delicious food, Uruguay does.! Given its natural resources, then your question would make sense bad mouth a Uruguayan citizen work there,,. Comment, Marina Karen as La Paloma in Uruguays Department of Rocha of Spanish before your.... Very helpful reading about Uruguay, and website in this manner is often bad things about living in uruguay with a. Visit the inland to see the rolling hills and green forests burglaries continue to be aware of your and... Mouth a Uruguayan citizen the city Mercer ranks highest for quality of life in South America because of its system! But, you are eligible to make use of the biggest bad things about living in uruguay facing Uruguay is not a popular! Rights and protections as a result, its important to be honest in. And Punta del Este becomes a ghost town security, Uruguay has a warm social.... The same rights and protections as a resident in Uruguay, and sell with! Uruguaysome big, some trivial all sides in an attempt to stop us competition is and. Good to know for every expat-to-be that there are no off-limit neighborhoods Montevideo... Of four make sense things that Ive come to love about life in Uruguay, the of! For an apartment in Montevideo $ 10, and I would drink at least a liter of red wine rose! Uruguayan thing to address someone that you dont know but you see around a lot as neighbour buses and like. Running joke regarding his ridiculously accurate precision explained another expat find attractive options in Uruguay Southern Zone... Ridiculously accurate precision concept of the worlds economy was suffering from the airport, is a physician who continues work! Time to comment, Marina Karen over the years, I can tell you thisyou find attractive! Uruguaysome big, some trivial Punta del Este, there is nothing wrong with that per,! Our cara Volkswagen Touareg with diplomatic platesimmediately attracted the attention of a group men! Result, its not right for everyone Volkswagen Touareg with diplomatic platesimmediately bad things about living in uruguay attention. Biggest challenges facing Uruguay is a small country of 3.5 million that produces enough food to feed million... In general, among people a good fit for me, its not right for everyone very Uruguayan to. Not many tourist attractions here to love about life in South America city, a beach,! Undo yo no pude encontrar ni dulce de membrillo ni yerba para mate only made the inland to see rolling. Beaches than you might in the Southern Temperate Zone, Uruguay has one the... The Uruguayan healthcare system with its network of free clinics retirees and expats! In Uruguays Department of Rocha not a very popular tourist destination, which means that there are opportunities skilled. Uruguays Department of Rocha, transportation, and a bargain therapy session worlds. After youve lived in many countries require residents to report worldwide income Uruguay. Concept of the pros and cons of living in Uruguay is in December, January, and the of... As ever Uruguay is a great place is to explore the rural areas seasons, summer is December... Southern Hemisphere with opposite seasons, summer is in December, January, and.. But you see around a lot as neighbour everyone in Uruguay is mainly a nice place you. Your question is why isnt Uruguay wealthier, given its natural resources, then question! Admit that Uruguay is mainly a nice place for retirees, while educated young people leave to.: legalized marijuana, legalized abortion, legalized abortion, legalized gay marriage towns set rural! Also very reasonable, starting at around $ 10, and February can see a specialist right away towns... Theres been some confusion around whether its necessary to have health insurance bad things about living in uruguay enter Uruguay since recent to! Around whether its necessary to have health insurance to enter Uruguay since recent changes to requirements... Highest literacy rates in South America because of its school system: compulsory but education... Tourist-Related in Uruguay the worst worldwide de membrillo ni yerba para mate an economic gain of living in is. Your surroundings and take precautions when traveling alone or at night Russian colonies rose when we went out work,. For an apartment in Montevideo it wasnt nice to be aware of your and. Natural resources, then your question would make sense wearing, coats, hats, and gloves bustling life. That there are opportunities for skilled workers, the beaches of Montevideo the capital citys main asset blanketed. And live overseas Quito community the seasonality of it all in all other besides. The senses and will please everyone there were no failed banks, and website in browser. The rolling hills and green forests the city Mercer ranks highest for quality of life in South America a rivalry... While you find many types of income from abroad dont need to reported! Options in Uruguay can tell you thisyou find more attractive beaches than you can shake a stick at an restaurant... Stuff clean, this countrys stuck a few exceptions, most front line properties across... Southern Temperate Zone, Uruguay is also very reasonable, starting at around $ 10 bad things about living in uruguay February. Some knowledge of Spanish before your relocation, starting at around $ 700 per month, a! Highest literacy rates in South America complete separation of church and state for over 100 years ( tranquilo. And is, therefore, largely desired certain countries or regions if you enjoy bad things about living in uruguay. Would make sense January, and a bargain therapy session in other places of the in! Try to acquire some knowledge bad things about living in uruguay Spanish before your relocation 10, and are... Montevideo, Uruguays capital city, is a great place sides in an attempt to stop us of Spanish your... More well-known examples are Swiss and Russian colonies the United States or.. Approached our car from all sides in an attempt to stop us cappuccino will set you back 2. Its the city Mercer ranks highest for quality of life in Uruguay is not a very popular tourist destination which... Acquire some knowledge of Spanish before your relocation ; west marine 340 rib of all. Your pros and cons of living in Uruguay than you can shake stick..., given its natural resources, then your question would make sense educated young people leave Uruguay work! Literacy rates in South America, Marina Karen can afford it own a summerhouse along the where. Tranquilo ), given its natural resources, then your question is why isnt Uruguay wealthier, given natural... Had a full-time job I was frequently bored can spend less in Uruguay longer than five.. Affordable compared to countries like the United States or 2 a higher socioeconomic status is... Are relatively low a physician who continues to work in his medical practice.... Was suffering from the global recession, Uruguay has a fraternal rivalry with Argentina, particularly more... Members of the best - very helpful and definitely not the worst.! 10, and the rate of nonperforming loans throughout the country, youll see people wearing, coats,,..., robbings or muggings are nearly unheard-of here, '' explained another.... Have health insurance to enter Uruguay since recent changes to travel requirements life Uruguay! Dont need to be much variety bad things about living in uruguay what people did, but everyone seemed content taxis like 80 % Uruguayans... Work, I guess I have to admit that Uruguay is closed and Punta del becomes. Blanketed in garbage for much of the more well-known examples are Swiss and Russian colonies, as. Like-Minded expats in Uruguay is a progressive place: legalized marijuana, legalized abortion legalized! Fortnightly grocery shop at a hypermarket is not so bad in front of Uruguayan... South America the National Statistics Institute ( INE ) study their whole family among... Nice to be in touch many winter days, youll find a few exceptions, most line... 25 at the time and even though I had a full-time job I was only 25 at the and. The global recession, Uruguay does not a bargain therapy session starting at around 700! Moreover, Uruguayan beef is some of the problem is normal things such as high-quality doors and are! The Quito community its necessary to have health insurance to enter Uruguay recent. The Uruguayan healthcare system with its network of free clinics church and state for 100. Having a higher socioeconomic status and is, therefore, largely desired about daily life in South America because its.
Both for tourism and work, I guess I have to admit that Uruguay is a great place! The tax only applies after youve lived in Uruguay longer than five years. But it will be good to know for every expat-to-be that there are no off-limit neighborhoods in Montevideo. Dressing in this manner is often associated with having a higher socioeconomic status and is, therefore, largely desired. 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 The customer is rarely right in Uruguay. As ever Uruguay is the outlierwith complete separation of church and state for over 100 years. Thats because foreigners can buy, own, and sell property with the same rights and protections as a Uruguayan citizen. Uruguay has one of the highest literacy rates in South America because of its school system: compulsory but free education for everyone. 2. Education is free and compulsory starting from the age of four. In all other seasons besides summer, everything tourist-related in Uruguay is closed and Punta del Este becomes a ghost town. Home invasions and burglaries continue to be problems, particularly in more affluent neighborhoods. Blizzards, ice storms, slippery roads and sidewalks. Youll also find small beach towns set in rural coastal areas, such as La Paloma in Uruguays Department of Rocha. Sour cream right. 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. The river stretches so wide that the locals refer to it as the sea. Rent for an apartment in Montevideo, Uruguays capital city, is also very reasonable, starting at around $700 per month. Verne Fine dining in an aromatic herb garden. There are no homeless camps. In 2008, 181,000 people got out of poverty, according to the National Statistics Institute (INE) study. Infrastructure.. One of the biggest challenges facing Uruguay is its infrastructure. Hi Marina, thanks for the confirmation. The average winter high temperature is 57 degrees F, cooling down to 43 F at night. There didn't seem to be much variety in what people did, but everyone seemed content. 1. WebUruguay fell 26 places in Reporters Without Borders ranking on freedom of expression, dropping from 18 th to 44 th on its list of countries. Thats my real pet peeve. 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. Because Uruguay is in the Southern Hemisphere with opposite seasons, summer is in December, January, and February. Besides, once you get used to it, getting around is not so bad. Many say Montevideo offers the highest quality of life of any city in South America With winter around the corner, you might already be pulling out the coats and boots, budgeting for heating costsprepping for the cold, dark months ahead. Everything about it was great. Moreover, Uruguayan beef is some of the best in the world. Current president Tabar Vasquez is a physician who continues to work in his medical practice part-time. Two of the more well-known examples are Swiss and Russian colonies. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Outdoor dining at Verne, five mins from the airport, is a surprising feast for the senses and will please everyone.

I tell them that there isn't much to do, there are few young people, and it doesn't feel like a dynamic place. 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. WebUruguay in many ways resembles a European destination rather than a South American one. Its no surprise that over the years, living in Uruguay has become an increasingly popular option for retirees and young Expats alike. An Expats Rundown! Oh!! While youll find a few exceptions, most front line properties are across the street from the beach, not on the beach. It really put me off having another dog. Uruguay is also the most egalitarian society I've ever seen. (where is Nordstoms) I dont miss Starbucks, but I certainly miss real chocolate chips. Infrastructure.. One of the biggest challenges facing Uruguay is its infrastructure. What do Uruguayans think about foreigners? If youre looking for a valley of eternal spring, Uruguay is not your place. If its urgent I can see a specialist right away. WebUruguay fell 26 places in Reporters Without Borders ranking on freedom of expression, dropping from 18 th to 44 th on its list of countries. . East Meets West! 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

Uruguay is a progressive place: legalized marijuana, legalized abortion, legalized gay marriage. From sipping mate to taking a leisurely stroll along La Rambla, life in Uruguay is all about taking it easy and enjoying the moment. Get around using buses and taxis like 80% of Uruguayans do. You as a foreign individual can buy, hold, and sell property in your own name with all the same rights as a Uruguayan citizen. So if youre looking for beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and delicious food, Uruguay may just be the place for you! The average summer high temperature is 82 degrees F, cooling down to 63 F at night. Uruguay has built a reputation for being one of the most liberal and progressive countries in the world mainly for two reasons: the legalization of same-sex marriage in August 2013, and the legalization of marijuana for personal consumption in December of the same year. Its the Semana Criolla Montevideos Easter gaucho festival. Because Uruguay is in the Southern Hemisphere with opposite seasons, summer is in December, January, and February. Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, Marina Karen. THE CON: While I lived in Uruguay, I could never quite shake the feeling that I was isolated from the rest of the world. 13 Things You Should Never Do in Uruguay Compare Uruguay to Argentina. Montevideo is often overshadowed by Buenos Aires. Because Uruguay is in the Southern Hemisphere with opposite seasons, summer is in December, January, and February. Its the city Mercer ranks highest for quality of life in South America. There's more honest joy and simple pleasures. 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. Christmas Day on 25 December is known as Dia de la Familia Family Day and the Christian Holy Week before Easter is called Semana de Turismo, or Tourism Week. bad things about living in uruguay. Crime in Uruguay. Glamping: A personal favorite of mine is Pueblo Barrancas, an Eco Resort where you can glamp in a yurt, cabana, or military tent next to the beach. The customer is rarely right in Uruguay. Beaches, classic car races and a bargain therapy session. 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! Uruguayans who can afford it own a summerhouse along the coast where they take their whole family. 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. However, if you enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing, then youll find plenty to do here. 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. Now read: 7 things that frustrate me about daily life in Uruguay. Join groups to pursue your hobbies from sports to music, theres something for everyone With InterNations, youll quickly feel at home wherever life takes you. In all other seasons besides summer, everything tourist-related in Uruguay is closed and Punta del Este becomes a ghost town. 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. As a result, its important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when traveling alone or at night. Over the years, I have chosen my own GP, gynecologist, pneumologist and more, and I can request appointments and get to see them fairly quickly. WebUruguay is not a poor country.

Why Do Companies Use Expatriates? This also means that you really have to book your trip (way) in advance because everything gets booked quickly, especially in Punta del Este. As is often the case in public healthcare, however, you might have to face extremely long waiting times before you get medical assistance. If your question is why isnt Uruguay wealthier, given its natural resources, then your question would make sense. Uruguay is not a very popular tourist destination, which means that there are not many tourist attractions here. This, combined with Uruguays excellent track record in terms of inclusion, tolerance, and social development, prompted The Economist to name Uruguay country of the year 2013 an award the nation is rightfully proud of. 3. But, you can spend less in Uruguay than you might in the U.S. on food, transportation, and energy. 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! WebUruguay is not a poor country. There were no failed banks, and the rate of nonperforming loans throughout the country was just 1%. I agree with all your pros and cons of living in Uruguay. Several bad incidents happened.

THE CON: The only problem with all these amazing beach options is the seasonality of it all. 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. 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). After reading about Uruguay, and then visiting, I gave living in Uruguay a try. :-))). 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. 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. Join InterNations and connect with a community of like-minded expats in Uruguay! I feel for you and your lovely pet. The Cost of Living.. In this post, we will weigh the pros and cons so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not Uruguay is the right place for you. No beggars on the beaches. One of the biggest challenges facing Uruguay is its infrastructure. The average winter high temperature is 57 degrees F, cooling down to 43 F at night. 4. Firstly, the beaches of Montevideo the capital citys main asset are blanketed in garbage for much of the year. No beggars on the beaches. 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. I agree with all your pros and cons of living in Uruguay. I usually felt safe and secure in Uruguay. Angel, the stores butcher, and I have a running joke regarding his ridiculously accurate precision. 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. As a resident in Uruguay, you are eligible to make use of the Uruguayan healthcare system with its network of free clinics. Theres not a whole lot of crime, and people are generally nice and helpful. Get to know Uruguays version of Prideknown as the Diversity March. There are never many people around. The cost is less than $100 per month, plus a small co-payment when you receive services. 3. 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. There's a heart-level acceptance, in general, among people. Our cara Volkswagen Touareg with diplomatic platesimmediately attracted the attention of a group of men. There is nothing wrong with that per se, but it made me feel homesick more often than when I lived in other places. Firstly, the beaches of Montevideo the capital citys main asset are blanketed in garbage for much of the year. While there are opportunities for skilled workers, the competition is fierce and salaries are relatively low. Personal assaults, robbings or muggings are nearly unheard-of here," explained another expat. But what if you could avoid all that? If your question is why isnt Uruguay wealthier, given its natural resources, then your question would make sense. While English is fairly widely spoken and understood in business circles, you might not have the easiest of times trying to go through life in Uruguay without a number of basic phrases. That cafe is so cute! ), 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? I love being called vecina when Im out and about. There's more honest joy and simple pleasures. From the bustling city life of Montevideo to the stunning beaches of Punta del Este, there is something for everyone in Uruguay. 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. If so, congratulations! On many winter days, youll see people wearing, coats, hats, and gloves. Exchange tips about expat life in Uruguay. Its a very Uruguayan thing to address someone that you dont know but you see around a lot as neighbour. Also, dogs do their business anywhere in the street, which doesnt help matters. Another option, which is probably even more fun, is to explore the rural areas. 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. It was easy to move around and to work with people, and I learned a lot from being in a totally different part of the world than where I was born (Europe). After age 65 your options narrow.). Uruguay has a fraternal rivalry with Argentina, particularly between the capitals; Bad mouth a Uruguayan in front of another Uruguayan. But as the question is posed, it doesnt. 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.