Santiago - Post Report Question and Answers
Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
We are a family and we have had blast. While getting involved culturally is tough, Chile has natural beauty in spades near and far from Santiago. If your family enjoys being outside, you will love it here. Downtown is rich in bars and restaurants so I can see it also being a good fit for singles. - Dec 2020
Yes for singles if you have strong social skills and know Spanish. Socially awkward (and I mean this in a constructive way) need not apply. This place can be VERY isolating. Families have a good time here. Couples yes, but see above. - Jun 2019
It is a good city for everyone as long as expectations are managed and people don't arrive thinking that Chile isn't a developing country. There are plenty of options for families, singles and couples to do and experience. - Feb 2016
Yes. Santiago can be great if you get out, explore, be unafriad to connect with Chileans. We've had great experiences with people from all different socioeconomic groups. You really must speak Spanish though. Only 5% of Chileans speak English and normally only basic conversational skills. Do yourself a favor and take the FSI classes if you're an EFM. It will completely change your experience in Chile. - Nov 2014
Good for all types! - Oct 2014
Excellent city for families, good city for singles/couples. People from Santiago aren't the typical outgoing friendly Latin, so don't expect to make a lot of Chilean friends immediately. - Sep 2011
It's good for everyone. - Jul 2010
It's a good city for different types of people. Although I don't go out to the bars or dance clubs, it sounds like there are plenty of options. - Jul 2009
Sure - Santiago has a lot to offer everyone. However, regarding singles - compared to other Latin American countries, Chileans are less keen on dating foreigners. They are rather closed and stick to themselves. Most of your friends will likely be other expats. - Apr 2009
Great for all three!! For families, once your kids get to know other kids of families (both Dominican and expat) they will find kids to play with. As for family activities, there is a great water park for all ages in town called Kaskada Park. A modern bowling alley just opened here about 1 year ago and is a family favorite. The north coast beaches of Sosua and Cabarete are within an hour to 1 and half hours drive from Santiago for day trips to the beach. There is also a series of waterfalls that kids like to go about 45 minutes to an hour away near the mountain town of Jarabacoa. - Sep 2008
It's a great place for everyone. There's always a wide variety of choices in things to do. Great outdoor activities such as hiking and horseback riding, hot springs, the beach (though it's usually too cold to swim), lots of wildlife to see. There are also lots of restaurants, theaters, museums and activities within the city for children. - Jul 2008
