Title: Living the Chilean Digital Nomad Dream
Hola! I’m Liam Parker, a digital nomad who has been living and working remotely in Chile for the past year, and let me tell you, it’s been an absolute whirlwind of an experience! From the vibrant streets of Santiago to the breathtaking landscapes of the Atacama Desert, Chile is a treasure trove of experiences, all while providing a fantastic environment to work and live in. In this post, I’ll share my experience and provide some tips for fellow digital nomads considering making the move to Chile.
Starting with the cost of living, Chile is not the cheapest South American country, but it’s still very affordable compared to places like North America or Western Europe. On average, I spend around $1,200 to $1,500 per month, including rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a nice neighborhood in Santiago, meals, transport, and leisure activities. Rent can range from $400 to $700 depending on the location and size of the apartment. A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost you around $10, and local transportation is also quite cheap, with the monthly pass costing around $45.
Now, let’s talk about workspaces. Chile has an emerging digital nomad scene and a growing number of coworking spaces. Santiago, Valparaiso, and Concepcion, in particular, have a good selection. I’ve been using a coworking space in Santiago called Urban Station, which offers great facilities including high-speed internet, comfy chairs, meeting rooms, and the very important free-flowing coffee. The monthly cost is around $150, which is well worth it for the benefits you receive.
Internet quality is a crucial aspect for us digital nomads, and in Chile, it’s generally reliable. In the major cities, you can expect good broadband speeds averaging around 70 Mbps. However, if you’re planning a jaunt to more rural areas or the stunning national parks, be prepared for a drop in quality. I always make sure to download any necessary documents in advance and notify my clients about potential delays in communication.
Moving onto the visa situation, Chile is relatively welcoming to digital nomads. Most nationalities can enter the country without a visa and stay for up to 90 days. If you plan to stay longer, you can apply for a temporary resident visa. However, the process can take a few months, so plan accordingly. It’s also worth noting that if you’re not a Spanish speaker, you might find the process a bit challenging, as most of the paperwork is in Spanish.
Living in Chile, for me, has been a blend of vibrant city life, stunning landscapes, and a rich cultural tapestry. The locals, known as ‘Chileans’, are warm and friendly, and they’ve made my journey here incredibly memorable. One of my favorite experiences was attending the La Tirana Festival, a massive celebration with traditional music, dance, and parades. It was a sensory spectacle I won’t forget anytime soon!
As a digital nomad, adapting to a new country always comes with its challenges. Here’s what I’ve learned during my stay:
1. Learn Spanish: While you can get by with English in the major cities, knowing Spanish will enrich your experience and make day-to-day tasks much easier.
2. Get a local SIM Card: It’s cheap and will save you from a lot of potential communication issues.
3. Explore the country: Chile has diverse landscapes from the driest desert in the world to beautiful beaches and stunning mountains. Make time to explore!
4. Try the local cuisine: Don’t miss out on traditional dishes like empanadas, cazuela, or the classic Chilean sandwich, Chacarero.
5. Be prepared for late dinners: Chileans typically have dinner after 9 pm.
6. Plan for earthquakes: Chile is in a seismic zone. While buildings are designed to withstand earthquakes, it’s still essential to be aware of safety measures.
Living and working remotely in Chile has been a rich and rewarding experience. The country offers a blend of cosmopolitan cities, breathtaking natural beauty, and an excellent working environment for digital nomads. So, if you’re considering a new destination for your digital nomad journey, give Chile a shot. You won’t regret it!
Nos vemos en Chile! (See you in Chile!)