Job Discussion Forums

[nanook]

Hi, my wife and I are planning to move to Chile next march, and we would prefer to stay in Valparaiso. We're both TEFL certified and experienced. What is the job situation like in the city, how is the weather, and most importantly, is it as pretty as it looks? Please help out a couple of Chilean newbies.

[Bernie]

Hi,

As you've probably already read, Neruda loved Valpo because it's chaotic and colourful. I think the best way I can describe Valpo is comparing it to Vi�a which is just a few minutes away. As per Neruda's description, Valpo is colourful and sprawling, clinging to the hills in a haphazard fashion. On the ground, it's charming, busy, crowded, and can be a little intense when there are a lot of people on the street.

I found Vi�a had more of a sense of spaciousness, what with the bridges and avenues it seemed more organised, I felt it was cleaner and generally more pleasant. They are both very beautiful cities with different vibes. In my opinion, Valpo is artsy and bohemian, whereas Vi�a is more commercial and mainstream. Vi�a has a beach, but I'm not sure about Valpo.

Neruda's house in Valpo is in a great spot overlooking the water. It's an incredible house, a really nice place to visit.

The weather: Check out weather.com. I'd say, be prepared for a cold, rainy winter since it's a coastal city.

I found only one language school in Valpo and about 4 or 5 in Vi�a. You could work and live in either as they are so close. I went job hunting at the end of the year, so I didn't get any bites. I don't know if it's due to the fact that there are fewer schools and more competition for jobs, but I found the attitude of the staff a little snooty, at best.

I found the schools on amarillas.cl which are the yellow pages of Chile. Also check out the schools listing on this site. (available via previous posts).

I hope this helps.

[BurnChurch]

If you are a big drinker, you will like Valparaiso. I LOVE IT!
It has great bars.
Also nice views of the seashore, the New Years fireworks. Bunch of stuff!
Eating seafood there???? That is the best. With some GOOOOOOOD Chilean white wine Believe me!