🌍 Overview
Valparaíso, a city in Chile, is a hidden gem for digital nomads. With its unique blend of bohemian vibe, rich history, and stunning architecture, it’s no wonder why many remote workers fall in love with this place. As a digital nomad who has lived in Valparaíso, I can attest that the city has a way of captivating your heart with its colorful streets, lively nightlife, and warm locals. The city’s laid-back atmosphere, combined with its relatively low cost of living, makes it an attractive destination for those looking to escape the chaos of bigger cities. Valparaíso digital nomads will find that the city’s eclectic mix of art, culture, and history provides endless inspiration for their work.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to stay in Valparaíso, there are several options that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are three neighborhoods that are popular among digital nomads:
- Cerro Alegre: This neighborhood is known for its vibrant atmosphere, stunning views of the city, and proximity to many cafes, restaurants, and bars. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Cerro Alegre can range from CLP 250,000 (approximately $330 USD) to CLP 400,000 (approximately $530 USD) per month.
- Cerro Concepción: This neighborhood is a bit more laid-back than Cerro Alegre, but still offers stunning views of the city and a variety of amenities. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Cerro Concepción can range from CLP 200,000 (approximately $260 USD) to CLP 350,000 (approximately $460 USD) per month.
- Barrio Puerto: This neighborhood is located in the heart of Valparaíso’s port area and offers a more urban, industrial feel. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Barrio Puerto can range from CLP 150,000 (approximately $200 USD) to CLP 300,000 (approximately $400 USD) per month.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Valparaíso is relatively low compared to other major cities in Chile. Here’s a breakdown of some typical expenses:
- Rent: As mentioned earlier, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from CLP 150,000 to CLP 400,000 (approximately $200-$530 USD) per month.
- Food: Eating out at a mid-range restaurant can cost around CLP 5,000 (approximately $6.50 USD) per meal. Groceries can cost around CLP 20,000 (approximately $26 USD) per week for basic items.
- Transportation: A monthly public transportation pass can cost around CLP 20,000 (approximately $26 USD). Taxis are also relatively affordable, with a typical ride costing around CLP 2,000 (approximately $2.60 USD).
- Coworking: Coworking spaces in Valparaíso can cost around CLP 50,000 (approximately $65 USD) per month for a part-time membership.
Internet & Coworking
Valparaíso has a growing number of coworking spaces and cafes with reliable internet. Some popular options include:
- Café con Libros: This cafe has a cozy atmosphere and fast internet speeds, making it a popular spot for digital nomads. Coffee costs around CLP 1,500 (approximately $2 USD).
- Workshop: This coworking space offers a range of membership options, including part-time and full-time memberships. Prices start at around CLP 50,000 (approximately $65 USD) per month.
- Valparaíso Coworking: This coworking space offers a range of amenities, including high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a communal kitchen. Prices start at around CLP 70,000 (approximately $90 USD) per month.
Internet speeds in Valparaíso are generally good, with average speeds of around 48 Mbps. However, it’s not uncommon for internet speeds to be slower in some areas, especially during peak hours.
Valparaíso has a growing digital nomad community, with many remote workers and entrepreneurs calling the city home. Some popular meetups and events include:
- Valparaíso Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is a great resource for connecting with other digital nomads in the city and finding out about upcoming events and meetups.
- Startup Chile: This organization hosts a range of events and meetups for entrepreneurs and startups, including those in the digital nomad community.
- Valparaíso Expats: This Facebook group is a great resource for connecting with other expats and digital nomads in the city, and finding out about upcoming events and meetups.
Culture & Lifestyle
Valparaíso is a city that is deeply rooted in culture and tradition. From its vibrant street art scene to its lively nightlife, there’s always something to do or see. Some popular cultural attractions include:
- La Sebastiana: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda, and offers stunning views of the city.
- Mercado Cardonal: This market is a great place to try local food and drinks, and shop for souvenirs.
- Cerro Artillería: This hill offers stunning views of the city and is a great place to watch the sunset.
The food scene in Valparaíso is also worth exploring, with a range of traditional Chilean dishes and modern fusion cuisine. Some popular restaurants include:
- La Estación: This restaurant serves up traditional Chilean cuisine, including pastel de choclo and chupe de mariscos.
- El Pecado: This restaurant offers a range of modern fusion cuisine, including seafood and steak dishes.
- Café Turri: This cafe is a great place to try traditional Chilean coffee and pastries.
Chile has a relatively straightforward visa process for digital nomads. Citizens of many countries, including the US, Canada, and EU countries, do not need a visa to enter Chile as a tourist. However, if you plan to stay in the country for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a temporary residence visa. This can be done at the Chilean embassy or consulate in your home country, or at the immigration office in Valparaíso.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips for digital nomads living in Valparaíso:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card at most phone stores or kiosks in the city. Prices start at around CLP 10,000 (approximately $13 USD) per month.
- Transportation: The city has a comprehensive public transportation system, including buses and metro lines. You can purchase a monthly pass for around CLP 20,000 (approximately $26 USD).
- Safety: Valparaíso is generally a safe city, but as with any city, it’s always a good idea to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Avoid walking alone at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Weather: Valparaíso has a Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and cool winters. The best time to visit is during the spring (September to November) or fall (March to May), when the weather is mild and pleasant.
