The lifestyle in Santiago is exciting and full of opportunities to enjoy an active social scene, world-class shopping malls, rustic markets, and excellent outdoor pursuits. The city offers expats a multitude of entertainment options and is conveniently situated close to vineyards, the beach, and a host of ski slopes in the Andes.
Expats move to Santiago not only for its dynamic atmosphere but also for the wide range of events and activities on offer, from pottery classes and photography groups to shopping, snowboarding and suntanning.
Shopping in Santiago
Santiago is Chile’s shopping capital. Most shopping malls house international shops and brands, as well as dining and entertainment options, and they stay open late, making it convenient for those who prefer shopping after work.
Shopping enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Santiago is home to one of Latin America’s largest shopping malls, Costanera Centre. Other highlights include Alto Las Condes and Parque Arauco, both on Kennedy Avenue. Expats will also discover high-fashion shops, great restaurants and art galleries along Alonso de Cordova and Nueva Costanera.
Expats looking for something special to send home might just find what they’re looking for at Los Dominicos Handicraft Village, right next to the Los Dominicos metro station. Jewellery and other unique handmade items are available at this artisanal centre at bargain prices. Other places to shop for gifts include Centro Cultural Palacio La Moneda and Patio Bellavista.
Eating out in Santiago
While Chilean cuisine might not be as exciting as that of some of its regional neighbours, there is something to suit everyone’s tastes in Santiago. With a long coastline, quality seafood is a popular choice. Chile is also known for its excellent wines, and expats often enjoy exploring the various vineyards around Santiago.
Barrio Bellavista and the surrounding areas offer great dining and drinking options for Santiago’s expats. Many enjoy the hour-long journey to the coastal town of Valparaíso for its cheap, delicious seafood.
Nightlife in Santiago
Santiago has a lively nightlife. Chileans generally start the party late, so it’s not unusual to only have dinner at 10pm, then go to a bar or club and carry on until the early hours of the morning. Bellavista, Providencia, Vitacura and Suecia are neighbourhoods frequented by Santiago’s partygoing crowd due to their many restaurants, clubs and bars.
Sports and outdoor activities in Santiago
Expats living in Santiago will be ideally placed to make the most of a diverse range of outdoor and sporting activities. Beautiful beaches lie just an hour’s drive from the city, and those who prefer the snow will be happy to know the Andes Mountain range and its many ski lodges are a stone’s throw away.
Santiago also boasts an extensive network of bicycle and pedestrian paths along the Mapocho River. The numerous beautiful parks and green spaces scattered across the city and its surroundings offer relief from the urban environment. They are great places for families and young people to enjoy.
Meeting people and making friends in Santiago
Santiago’s diverse and dynamic atmosphere offers a variety of platforms for expats to meet new people and develop friendships. From social and sporting groups to language courses and volunteering opportunities, here are some excellent options for expats to connect with others in the city.