Fun Classes for Expats Living in Santiago
Summary: Once you've arrived in Santiago, here are some classes to consider taking to help you meet people and get settled in to your new life abroad.
For expats and digital nomads in Santiago, finding engaging activities that cater to English speakers can be a delightful way to immerse oneself in the local culture while still feeling comfortable in the learning environment. Whether you're looking to enhance your culinary skills, dive into the world of Chilean wines, or express yourself through art, Santiago offers a variety of classes that are suitable for English-speaking adults. These classes not only provide valuable learning experiences but also serve as fantastic opportunities to meet like-minded individuals and expand your social network in your new home. Below is a curated list of classes that are perfect for those still mastering the Spanish language but eager to learn and enjoy all that Santiago has to offer.
Uncorked Wine Tours
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Education
Location: Various locations in Santiago
Uncorked Wine Tours provides a unique opportunity for English-speaking residents to explore the rich viticulture of Chile. The tours are conducted in English and offer a comprehensive introduction to the world of Chilean wines, including tastings and vineyard visits.
Bellavista Spanish School
Type of Class(es): Spanish Language Courses
Location: Bellavista neighborhood
While not a class in the traditional sense, Bellavista Spanish School offers intensive Spanish language courses that are perfect for expats and digital nomads looking to improve their language skills. The school provides a friendly and immersive environment to learn Spanish, with a focus on practical conversation skills.
Boragó
Type of Class(es): Chilean Cuisine Cooking Classes
Location: Av. Nueva Costanera, Vitacura
Boragó, one of Santiago's top restaurants, occasionally offers cooking classes where you can learn the secrets of Chilean cuisine from renowned chefs. The classes are a great way to understand local ingredients and dishes, even if your Spanish is still a work in progress.
La Casa Roja
Type of Class(es): Cultural Workshops and Language Exchange
Location: Agustinas 2113, Barrio Brasil
La Casa Roja is a popular hostel that also serves as a cultural hub, offering various workshops that may include cooking, dance, and art, often in a bilingual setting. It's a great place to learn new skills and meet fellow expats and locals.
Arte Al Aire
Type of Class(es): Outdoor Painting and Drawing Classes
Location: Various parks and natural settings around Santiago
Arte Al Aire offers a unique artistic experience for those who want to express themselves through painting or drawing while enjoying Santiago's beautiful outdoor spaces. Classes are relaxed and can cater to English speakers, making them a perfect creative outlet.
Chilean Cooking Classes
Type of Class(es): Traditional Chilean Cooking
Location: Providencia neighborhood
These cooking classes are designed to teach the preparation of traditional Chilean dishes in a fun and interactive environment. They are often led by bilingual instructors, making them accessible to those with limited Spanish proficiency.
Santiago Language Center
Type of Class(es): Spanish Language Courses
Location: Santiago city center
The Santiago Language Center offers a range of Spanish courses, from beginner to advanced levels. The center focuses on conversational Spanish, helping expats and digital nomads to quickly improve their language skills for everyday use.
Vitacura Cultural Corporation
Type of Class(es): Art Exhibitions and Workshops
Location: Vitacura neighborhood
The Vitacura Cultural Corporation hosts a variety of art-related events and workshops, many of which are accessible to English speakers. These can include painting, sculpture, and photography classes, providing a cultural deep dive into the local art scene.
El Taller Cerámica
Type of Class(es): Pottery and Ceramic Workshops
Location: Barrio Italia
El Taller Cerámica is a cozy workshop space where you can learn the art of pottery and ceramics. The hands-on classes are a great way to unwind and create, with instructors who can guide you in English as you shape your own masterpieces.
Chile Lindo Tours
Type of Class(es): Cultural and Historical Tours
Location: Various locations in Santiago
For those interested in learning more about the history and culture of Santiago, Chile Lindo Tours offers guided tours in English. These tours can be a great educational experience, providing insights into the city's past and present.
Stgo Maker Space
Type of Class(es): DIY and Maker Workshops
Location: Providencia neighborhood
Stgo Maker Space is a community workshop that offers classes on a variety of DIY projects, from woodworking to electronics. The space is English-friendly and perfect for those who love to tinker and create.
International Sommelier Guild
Type of Class(es): Wine Education and Certification
Location: Various locations in Santiago
The International Sommelier Guild provides wine education courses that lead to certification. These classes are taught in English and are ideal for wine enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge of wine tasting, pairing, and service.
Please note that while these classes and activities are recommended for English-speaking adults, it's always a good idea to confirm the language of instruction and level of Spanish required before enrolling. Enjoy your learning journey in Santiago!
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:
- Best International Schools and Bilingual Schools in Santiago
- 7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Santiago
- Best Bookstores and Libraries in Santiago
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Santiago
- Public Transportation in Santiago
- Best Markets in Santiago
- Retire in Santiago Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Santiago
- Pros & Cons of Living in Santiago
- Driving in Santiago
- Cost of Living in Santiago
- Health Care in Santiago
- The Insider's Guide to Santiago
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Chile
- Best Places to Live in Chile
- Real Estate in Chile
- Pros & Cons of Living in Chile
- Christmas in Chile
- Pros and Cons of Living in Chile 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Chile