Madrid Expat Discovers Santiago: A Surprising First World Transformation

Madrid Expat Discovers Santiago: A Surprising First World Transformation

On August 17, 2025, the vibrant city of Santiago, Chile, became the backdrop for a fascinating story of cultural discovery and personal growth, shared by travel content creator Alirio Real during an interview with Violeta Rodríguez. This young woman from Madrid embarked on a journey that challenged her initial perceptions of Latin America and revealed a different side of Chile, a nation often misunderstood.

Violeta had some nervous moments before moving to Santiago. With her family expressing concerns about safety in Latin America, especially her mother’s fears, Rodríguez’s journey started off on rocky terrain. She originally aimed for Berlin but decided to explore the scholarship opportunity in Chile, which led her to this bustling capital city, home to approximately 7 million residents. Chile’s beautiful geography features a long coastal stretch alongside the Andes mountains, providing a stunning backdrop that she grew to appreciate. 

First Impressions

Upon her arrival, Violeta faced an unexpected challenge: a power outage that momentarily reinforced her preconceived notions about Chile being a „third world“ country. But as she wandered through the clean streets and admired the modern architecture, her outlook transformed. In affluent neighborhoods like Las Condes, she felt a sense of empowerment, describing herself as an „entrepreneur“ amidst the upscale surroundings.

Exploring the historical neighborhoods of Yungay and Persa Bío Bío opened her eyes even further. Playing chess with a local merchant in these charming areas showcased the warmth and community spirit that characterizes much of Chilean life. Rodríguez’s reflections on Santiago reveal a remarkable transition in her perspective, as she ultimately hailed the city for its excellent infrastructure and stunning natural beauty, declaring it, “first world” status in her eyes.

The Cost of Living

Despite her growing affection for Santiago, Rodríguez was taken aback by the high cost of living. She candidly compared prices with her hometown of Madrid, noting that Santiago seemed to be the most expensive place she had ever visited. She found that while housing prices were comparable, the costs of food and dining out were surprisingly steep, prompting many to ponder the affordability of life in this astonishing city.

Chile’s Rich Tapestry

Chile, officially known as the Republic of Chile, is not just Santiago. It encompasses a diverse landscape that stretches from the stark Atacama Desert in the north to lush temperate rainforests in the south, offering abundant natural resources, particularly copper and lithium. With a population of over 19 million, this unitary presidential republic operates under the leadership of President Gabriel Boric, emphasizing democratic values following its transition from dictatorship in the late 20th century.

The road to democracy has been winding, with significant events like the protests from 2019 to 2022 prompting demands for constitutional reforms. In this transitional landscape, Chile’s rich cultural heritage shines through, celebrated by renowned poets such as Pablo Neruda and Gabriela Mistral, while its football teams unite the nation under a common passion.

A New Perspective

As Violeta stood at the intersection of her fears and newfound love for Chile, she exemplified a broader narrative that many experience when they delve into the less-explored corners of the world. Her journey reminds us that initial perceptions are often skewed, and once we dare to look beyond them, we find ourselves enriched by the vibrancy and complexities of different cultures.

In her encounter with the heart of Santiago, Rodríguez’s experience can serve as an inspiration to those hesitant to venture into unfamiliar places. After all, a little courage can lead to deep understanding and delightful surprises. And in Chile, as it unfolds its many layers, there’s always something new to discover.