Fun Classes for Expats Living in Montevideo
Summary: Once you've arrived in Montevideo, here are some classes to consider taking to help you meet people and get settled in to your new life abroad.
Montevideo, the vibrant capital of Uruguay, offers a plethora of classes that cater to the diverse interests of expats and digital nomads. Whether you're looking to dive into the local culture through cooking, enhance your language skills, appreciate the fine art of wine tasting, or express yourself with a paintbrush, there's something for everyone. Engaging in these classes is not just about learning a new skill; it's a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, immerse yourself in the Uruguayan way of life, and perhaps even find a new passion. Below is a curated list of classes that are particularly welcoming to English-speaking adults, even those who are still mastering Spanish.
Escuela de Cocina Gato Dumas
Type of Class(es): Cooking Classes
Location: Bulevar España 2633, Montevideo
Website: www.gatodumas.com.uy
At Escuela de Cocina Gato Dumas, both beginners and seasoned cooks can find classes to suit their culinary interests. From traditional Uruguayan dishes to international cuisine, the school offers a hands-on experience that allows you to learn and taste the essence of cooking. The friendly atmosphere and professional chefs make it an ideal place to hone your skills and meet fellow food enthusiasts.
Alianza Cultural Uruguay-Estados Unidos
Type of Class(es): English and Spanish Language Courses
Location: Paraguay 1217, Montevideo
Website: www.alianza.edu.uy
The Alianza Cultural Uruguay-Estados Unidos is a cultural institution that offers a range of language courses, including Spanish for foreigners. Their approach is interactive and communicative, making it easier for English speakers to learn Spanish in an engaging environment. They also offer cultural activities and exchange programs, providing a rich learning experience.
Bodega Bouza
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Tours
Location: Camino La Redencion 7658, Montevideo
Website: www.bodegabouza.com
Bodega Bouza invites wine enthusiasts to explore the world of Uruguayan wines through guided tastings and tours of their vineyards. The classes are designed to educate participants about the wine-making process while enjoying the flavors of Bouza's finest selections. It's a delightful way to spend an afternoon and mingle with other wine lovers.
Taller de Arte Club de Pintura
Type of Class(es): Painting Workshops
Location: Julio Herrera y Obes 1234, Montevideo
Taller de Arte Club de Pintura offers painting workshops for all levels, providing a creative outlet for those looking to explore their artistic side. The workshops are led by experienced artists and are designed to be accessible even for those with limited Spanish proficiency. It's a great way to express yourself and connect with the local art community.
La Casa Violeta
Type of Class(es): Cooking Workshops, Cultural Events
Location: Rambla República de México 6455, Montevideo
La Casa Violeta is a cultural hub that offers a variety of cooking workshops, including vegetarian and vegan options. The workshops are interactive and often focus on healthy and sustainable cooking practices. Additionally, La Casa Violeta hosts various cultural events, making it a vibrant place to learn and socialize.
Academia Uruguay
Type of Class(es): Spanish Language Courses
Location: Juan Carlos Gómez 1408, Montevideo
Website: www.academiauruguay.com
Academia Uruguay specializes in teaching Spanish to foreigners and offers a range of courses from beginner to advanced levels. The school provides an immersive learning experience with a focus on conversation and cultural activities. It's an excellent choice for expats and digital nomads looking to improve their Spanish language skills.
Montevideo Wine Experience
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting Experiences
Location: Piedras 300, Montevideo
Website: www.montevideowine.com
Montevideo Wine Experience offers curated wine tasting sessions that showcase the best of Uruguayan viticulture. The tastings are informative and designed to cater to both novices and connoisseurs. It's a social and educational way to appreciate the local wine culture and meet fellow wine aficionados.
Montevideo Cooking School
Type of Class(es): Uruguayan and International Cuisine
Location: Address upon request
Montevideo Cooking School provides a hands-on approach to learning the art of Uruguayan and international cuisine. The classes are small and intimate, ensuring personalized attention and an enjoyable learning environment. It's a perfect setting to master new recipes and techniques while making new friends.
El Arte de Vivir Uruguay
Type of Class(es): Meditation and Personal Development Workshops
Location: Various locations in Montevideo
Website: www.elartedevivir.org/uy
El Arte de Vivir offers workshops focused on meditation, breathing techniques, and personal development. These classes are designed to improve well-being and reduce stress, providing a supportive community for those looking to enhance their quality of life. The workshops are often available in English or with English assistance.
Montevideo Language Exchange
Type of Class(es): Language Exchange Meetups
Location: Various cafes and bars in Montevideo
Montevideo Language Exchange is a casual and fun way to practice Spanish while helping others with their English. These meetups take place in relaxed settings such as cafes and bars, making it easy to converse and learn in a social atmosphere. It's a great way to improve language skills and meet locals and expats alike.
Uruguay Cultural
Type of Class(es): Cultural Workshops and Tours
Location: Various cultural sites in Montevideo
Website: www.uruguaycultural.com
Uruguay Cultural offers workshops and tours that delve into the rich cultural heritage of Uruguay. From music and dance to history and architecture, these experiences are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for English speakers. It's an enriching way to connect with the country's traditions and people.
Please note that while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information provided, class schedules and availability may change, and it is recommended to contact the institutions directly for the most up-to-date information.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- 7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Montevideo
- Best Bookstores and Libraries in Montevideo
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Montevideo
- Public Transportation in Montevideo
- Best Markets in Montevideo
- Retire in Montevideo Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Montevideo
- Pros & Cons of Living in Montevideo
- Driving in Montevideo
- Health Care in Montevideo
- Discover the Best of Montevideo
- Cost of Living in Montevideo
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Uruguay
- Best Places to Live in Uruguay
- Real Estate in Uruguay
- Educational System in Uruguay
- Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Uruguay