So you are seriously considering moving to Uruguay, but you still can’t quite decide if it is the right place for you. There are plenty of sources out there telling you all the wonderful things about Uruguay, but… how do you know it matches your needs? What reasons are there not to come to Uruguay?

Here are few thoughts to consider before deciding to make the move:

1. Uruguay is not a hot job market. That isn’t to say there aren’t jobs available, but… there are many talented people leaving Uruguay to look for a job so unless you have a secure deal… don’t expect to find work quality work here. (Although there is always teaching English…)
2. Uruguay is not the cheapest. If you want to live in Montevideo or Punta del Este you won’t find the same great deals that you might in other Latin American countries. That being said, planting your roots outside the city may mean cheaper prices than elsewhere.
3. Spanish is a part of everyday life. This one might not be a problem for you, but if you think you won’t learn it, and aren’t willing to hire a bi-lingual assistant you may be too frustrated to actually enjoy living here.
4. Life is hard for the Handicapped. In Uruguay few buildings are handicapped accessible and the handicapped service agency provides little assistance.
5. It is not prime for new businesses. You may find success in starting a business in Uruguay that receives its income from the outside, but don’t expect to make your profit from Uruguay soil. However, if you are interested in the Free Zones, they provide a tax-free place for businesses rendering services or shipping products.
6. Uruguay is not exotic. My friend at www.UruguayLiving.com has heard it referred to it as “Iowa with Beaches.” Good steak. No exotic appeal.

So, if none of those things sound like a problem to you, why not take a trial trip of a couple weeks, or even a few months to see if Uruguay is right for you.

What it comes down to for this Gringo is: Uruguay is less expensive than North America or Europe, it is democratic, stable, has a growing economy, no hurricanes or tornados, and is without government/religious tensions. There is little more that this satisfied Gringo could ask for. (Aside from a good steak… which Uruguay has plenty of!)

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