So this might sound fairly specific but I am from Germany and I am currently looking to work at a German school in Latin America for three months.
I wrote several applications and now it comes down to two cities/schools – Barranquilla in Colombia and Santiago in Chile. Both schools look great and the people seem very nice, so that does not play any role when it comes to my decision, so it only comes down to the location – the country, the city, the people etc.
I can’t decide where I want to go. Santiago seems beautiful with many activities to do, great nature and so on. However, I read that some people think it lacks the Southamerican flair to it and that the people are not as welcoming as in other countries.
On the other hand, there is Barranquilla. The nice weather and the Caribbean Sea seem very appealing to me, but it seems that the city itself has not too much to offer. Also, from what I have heard, the people are warm and welcoming, but the country is also not as safe as Chile.
Do you have any suggestions where I should go?
Comments
Santiago “doesn’t have the South American flair” because Chile is different from the stereotype people from other countries have of Latin America, but we still have numerous cultural activities and events that you would enjoy and that you wouldn’t be able to appreciate elsewhere. We aren’t hostile or unwelcoming; it’s true that there is some tension between Chileans and other Latin American countries, but if you’re a nice person, mind your own business, and aren’t too loud, people won’t get upset with you. Europeans are generally very well received. During my university years, I met many European students, and they all really enjoyed their stay in Chile, so I highly recommend the country.
Santiago would feel more “European” compared to Barranquilla in terms of culture and infrastructure (although these days it’s getting more Caribbean, IYKYK). If your goal is to experience a different culture, you may want to choose the latter.
Both countries have their ups and downs! Santiago is a beautiful city with awesome landscapes, but it’s the most expensive country in Latin America, Barranquilla is awesome costal city, but it’s always hot and muggy! Both countries have their fair share of elevated crime rates but as long as you don’t go looking for trouble you won’t find it! If it comes down to expense wise, Barranquilla wins hands down!