10 Tips for Living in Uruguay

Welcome to the vibrant and diverse nation of Uruguay, a hidden gem nestled between Argentina and Brazil along the Atlantic coast. As a digital nomad, you've made a fantastic choice; Uruguay offers a stable economy, high-quality life, and a welcoming atmosphere for expats. To help you settle in and make the most of your Uruguayan adventure, here are 10 essential tips to navigate life in this South American haven.

1. Embrace the Relaxed Uruguayan Pace

Uruguayans are known for their 'tranquilo' lifestyle, which means a relaxed and laid-back approach to life. As a digital nomad, you might be used to fast-paced environments, but in Uruguay, it's important to slow down and adapt to the local rhythm. This can be a significant shift, especially when it comes to business dealings or getting things done. Patience is key, and you'll find that embracing this pace can lead to a more enjoyable and stress-free life. Take a cue from the locals: enjoy long lunches, take leisurely strolls along the Rambla, and don't be surprised if meetings start a little later than scheduled.

2. Learn the Local Language

While many Uruguayans speak English, particularly in the business and tech sectors, learning Spanish will greatly enhance your experience. Not only will it help you navigate daily life with ease, but it will also show respect for the local culture and open doors to deeper connections with the community. Consider taking Spanish classes or using language exchange meetups to practice. Remember, Uruguayans speak with a distinct Rioplatense Spanish accent and use 'vos' instead of 'tú' for informal 'you,' which might take some getting used to.

3. Get to Know the Mate Culture

Mate (pronounced 'mah-teh') is more than just a traditional caffeine-rich drink in Uruguay; it's a social ritual that symbolizes friendship and community. You'll see people carrying their mate gourds and thermoses everywhere. Joining in this custom is a fantastic way to bond with locals and immerse yourself in the culture. Be prepared to share your mate in a circle, as it's a sign of trust and camaraderie. Don't be shy to ask someone about their mate habits; it's a great conversation starter and a way into the heart of Uruguayan social life.

4. Explore the Diverse Landscapes

Uruguay may be small, but it boasts a variety of landscapes, from pristine beaches to rolling hills and historic towns. Take advantage of your flexible lifestyle to explore places like Punta del Este, known for its upscale resorts and vibrant nightlife, or the charming cobblestone streets of Colonia del Sacramento, a UNESCO World Heritage site. For a more rural experience, head to the gaucho country in the interior for horseback riding and to enjoy the traditional Uruguayan barbecue, asado. The country's compact size makes it easy to travel, so use your weekends to discover all that Uruguay has to offer.

5. Navigate the Housing Market

Finding the right place to live is crucial for your comfort and productivity. Montevideo, the capital, offers a range of options from modern apartments to beachfront properties. Consider renting in neighborhoods like Pocitos or Punta Carretas, which are popular among digital nomads and expats and digital nomads for their amenities and proximity to the sea. Websites like Mercado Libre and Gallito are great for finding rentals. Be aware that leases typically run for two years, but you can find shorter-term arrangements, especially if you're willing to pay a bit more. Always visit properties in person and negotiate terms to suit your nomadic lifestyle.

6. Stay Connected with Reliable Internet

As a digital nomad, a stable internet connection is your lifeline. Uruguay has one of the best internet infrastructures in Latin America, with widespread coverage and good speeds. Antel is the state-owned company providing internet services, and you can choose from various plans to suit your needs. For on-the-go connectivity, consider getting a local SIM card with a data plan. Co-working spaces are also gaining popularity in cities like Montevideo and Punta del Este, offering not just reliable internet but also opportunities to network with other professionals.

7. Understand the Tax System

Uruguay's tax system is relatively straightforward, but it's important to understand your obligations, especially if you're earning income globally. As a resident, you're taxed on your worldwide income, but there are favorable tax regimes for new residents that can provide significant tax advantages for the first few years. It's wise to consult with a local tax advisor to navigate the system and take advantage of any treaties to avoid double taxation. Keep in mind that VAT (Value Added Tax) is applied to many goods and services, so factor this into your budgeting.

8. Embrace the Local Cuisine

Uruguayan cuisine is a delightful fusion of Spanish, Italian, and indigenous influences. Don't miss out on the national dish, chivito, a hearty sandwich loaded with steak, ham, cheese, and more. Street markets and 'ferias' are great places to sample local produce and specialties. For a truly authentic experience, visit a 'parrillada' to savor the famous Uruguayan grilled meats. Vegetarians need not worry, as the country's agricultural bounty ensures a good selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, and there's a growing number of vegetarian and vegan eateries, especially in larger cities.

9. Get Involved in the Community

Building a local network is key to feeling at home in a new country. Attend social events, join clubs or groups that align with your interests, and participate in community activities. Uruguayans are generally warm and welcoming, and they appreciate when foreigners take an interest in their culture. From tango classes to beach volleyball, there are plenty of opportunities to meet people and form lasting friendships. Social media groups and expat forums can also be valuable resources for advice and companionship.

10. Stay Healthy and Insured

Uruguay has a high standard of healthcare with both public and private systems. As a non-resident, you'll likely use private healthcare providers, which are affordable and offer high-quality care. However, it's still essential to have a good health insurance plan to cover any medical needs. Many digital nomads opt for international health insurance plans that provide coverage in multiple countries. Also, take advantage of Uruguay's focus on wellness by enjoying outdoor activities and the country's clean, unpolluted air.

Adapting to life in Uruguay as a digital nomad can be a thrilling and enriching experience. With these tips in hand, you're well on your way to making the most of your time in this beautiful country. Enjoy the culture, connect with the people, and let Uruguay's charm work its magic on your nomadic journey.

Digital Nomads and Expats talk about Living in Uruguay

"Bring flip-flops. Bring your favorite condiments, especially if you like spicy foods. Leave heavy coats behind, as winter only lasts about 3 months & spring is usually beautiful. That said, bone up on your fire-tending skills, as most home heating is by wood fire... If you split your own wood, you can buy it cheaper. Make friends with a good firewood vendor. Bring earmuffs for winter, as we do have a lot of wind (the Pamperos). Bring comfy pants with lots of pockets for shells, etc. when you hit the beach. ALWAYS save your empty beer bottles, as you get a 10- to 15-peso discount when you return the "dead soldiers" as you purchase more beer. Same with wine - returning the bottles (esp. the 5-liter bottles) saves you 165 pesos or so (about $8.50). Get the tri-fold maps from an Ancap station. Worth every penny of the $10, they have a map of UY, another of all the MercoSur countries, a map of Montevideo, and city street maps of all of the major cities... PDD is not listed, as we have only one main road through town... ;p Be prepared to be unprepared for the welcome you receive, the wonderful food & wine, the genuinely friendly people. We have found our new home, for sure. Lay out your trips in advance & plan to use the least fuel possible... Gas is about $8/gallon, so we use it well. We bought a 1968 VW Bug for $3500 USD. She's economical, reliable & parts are cheap as dirt. We bought an engine belt, new fuel lines, fuel filter, new seatbelts, and a new door knob for only $10. The fuel lines & filter were installed curbside at no additional cost. We had the resistor for the windshield wipers changed out curbside & were given a handful of extra fuses. The labor took 2 hours, but the total cost was $16. Learn to use propane. It's one of the things they do best here. Exchange of a 33-lb cylinder is only $16. The 2-lb cylinder for the gas stove in the kitchen costs $5. If you plan to immigrate, come down during the fall & stay thru the winter, so you know what you're getting into. You will probably be pleasantly surprised - we were. Now that we're hooked, we're buying property & starting building a home. Buy a cell phone from Antel, the govt phone company. A mid-range phone with camera & MP3 player, Bluetooth, and internet will set you back $26, with $5/month for service. :D Try the Uruguayo products. We have found many to be superior to brands we used in the US. If you have allergies, plan to obtain some antihistamines & decongestants from a farmacia here. You can get Loratadine cheaply for the first; you can still get pseudoephedrine down here without being spread-eagled outside the pharmacy. If you have health issues & are on regular medications, most are available over the counter without prescription here. Put off any dental work until you get here - it's incredibly high quality, latest technology, and incredibly cheap... I had a cracked molar that eventually broke, losing 25% of the back corner. Mario, my fabulous dentist, my hero - fixed it for $40 USD. Be prepared to be amazed at how little govt interference these people have in their lives. Be prepared to make friends with the police. They are not at all the threatening thugs one fears in the US," said one member living in Punta del Diablo.

"Learn Spanish before you come! Yes, they say everyone speaks English, but that's not true of the interior (or anyplace away from Montevideo). Learn Spanish! Learn to ride a small motor bike or 4-wheeler. You do not want to own a car here; the streets will eat it. Also, the salt air from the Atlantic. We use the bus to go out of town for major purchases, and use a small scooter & a 4-wheeler for getting around town. DRESS DOWN! Wearing your old sweats & flip-flops works to your advantage here. Especially if you're thinking of living here, you want to dress down. Flashy clothes gets you robbed. Dress down comfy - jeans, t-shirt, camos, work clothes.... Leave the suit in the suitcase. Learn to use a fireplace and/or wood stove competently without smoking up the house. Learn what to look for before you rent a house with a fireplace or wood stove. I.e., don't rent a small house with a huge fireplace! The big fireplace will actually suck more heat out of the house than it leaves in it - where YOU are! Find a house with a fireplace sized appropriately. It will make the difference between an economical, comfy winter and a chilly, expensive one. If renting, you will never find a Uruguayo house that has hot water in the kitchen, so just get over it. They have a tap in the shower and a bucket. Fill bucket with hot from the shower & tote it to the kitchen. Ta. Learn small motor repair - esp. chainsaws, motorbikes, and 4-wheelers. We have 2 mechanics in town and they will both skin you alive. One will fix the vehicle just enough to keep it running a week, then you'll be back for more repairs. The other will siphon the gas from your tank & tell you it was empty when you brought it to him. GAS is expensive. At present, we pay 70 pesos per liter here in Diablo for gas brought in from Brazil. If you buy from the gas station in Coronilla, it sells for 42 pesos/liter and Uruguayo gas, better quality. Learn to work with propane. Cooking revolves around the 13kg propane cylinder here. BUY MORE THAN ONE so you have time to wait for refills to be delivered. "Manana" (minus tilde) does not always mean "tomorrow" - it could be next week. Learn how to connect & disconnect your gas tanks yourself. Learn how to cook over wood on the grill. Charcoal in the bag exists here, but nothing like Kingsford. It's expensive when you can find it and it throws sparks. Learn to cook in the fireplace - you might enjoy it. Make yourself speak Spanish, even if you're shy or feel embarrassed. Check out DuoLingo.com. Even if you're tripping over your words, the people will appreciate you more for making the effort. Shop around for your internet. Antel (govt phone company) currently offers LTE superfast modem with 30GB downloads for 1,200 pesos (about $60USD) per month. BUT... when you get there to buy one, they're always out of them. We just got a new one after our old contract expired... We pay 750 pesos/mo for 12gb, about $25USD/month. DON'T be afraid to shop on the Brazil side of Chuy, the international free zone town. We bought our wood stove there at factory prices because Brazil's cast iron is better made than UY's. UY produces very little in the way of picante sauces, etc., so we get most of our groceries there as well. Clothes, groceries, shoes, tools, etc., we buy in Brazil for better selection, better prices, better quality," wrote a member in Punta del Diablo.