Uruguay Travel Articles

Becoming an Expat in Uruguay   by Lou Ross

A booming technology economy and temperate climate brings people from all walks of life and around the world to Uruguay. Moving to this diverse part of South America grants easy access to other large, popular destinations such as Brazil and Argentina. Uruguay, the second smallest country in South America boasts diversity and freedom unheard of in other South American cities. With a plan in mind, moving to Uruguay can be a rewarding and adventuresome move.

Although professionals often consider Uruguay to have a middle economy, often unstable in times of trouble, participating in the right economic sector will insure your economic freedom. Because Uruguay depends heavily on exports, when demand is low, unemployment rises dramatically. Recently, unemployment rates have been as high as twenty percent. However, the technology industry is booming and shows hopeful growth for the future. Jobs in Agriculture are widely available, though often unstable. Tourism accounts for a large part of the Uruguay economy and provides many jobs. With everything from beachfront resorts to colonial towns, tourism is rampant in almost every part of Uruguay. Because English-speaking individuals are often hard to come by in Uruguay, they are in high demand as translators and private educators.

Montevideo, the capital city of Uruguay boasts some of the most diverse and appealing aspects of Uruguay. With fine restaurants and an old-world European city style, this culturally broad city is alluring to many. Religious affiliations are separate from state and the Catholic faith is highly predominant in Uruguay. A large population of Europeans, mostly Spanish and Italian, make up the nearly three million person population. A background in the Spanish language is helpful when moving, as it is the predominant language spoken in Uruguay.

Most education in Uruguay is catered to local citizens in the native language. If moving, however, there are several private English schools, almost all located in Montevideo. Since English is not taught in most local schools, the youth and adults are often very excited to learn the American language, making tutoring positions and jobs widely available to American foreigners.

Many Americans that have previously relocated to Uruguay recommend taking a trip to visit before settling on moving. If you will be there for a relatively short time, many homeowners rent their houses or small apartments. Since there are several areas that are less affluent than others, be sure to do your research and find the best places to live.

About the Author - Learn more about relocating overseas at MovingCompaniesforyou.com.