12 Tips for Living in Paysandu, Uruguay

By candace7

An expat talks about living in Paysandu, Uruguay. Topics covered include public vs. private hospitals, petty crime, applying to residency, nightlife and restaurants (pizza parlors are everywhere), golf clubs, international schools and much more.

Expat Life in Paysandu

Foreigners move to our area for several reasons. One is it is away from the hustle and bustle big cities. Another reason is due to its location. Paysandu borders Argentina and is a quick trip over for travelers and explorers. There is lots of recreation in and near Paysandu. The Rio Uruguay River (that borders Uruguay and Argentina) attracts "boaters" and "beach-goers" alike. During other times there are carnivals and festivals held near the water. Paysandu is near several famous hot springs or "termases" that attract tourists and foreigners.

Cost of Living in Paysandu, Uruguay

The cost of living is high for Uruguayan wages; however you can live comfortably on foreign wages, specifically States wages. Housing is low, but material items are expensive, however cheaply made. Food costs are reasonable, especially buying raw items in bulk. Fruits and vegetables are fresh and seasonal and reasonably priced. Fresh baked goods at bakeries are always in season and very cost friendly.

Local Clubs and Organizations

The most popular club is the Paysandu Golf Club. It is not just a golf club, but more like a social and sports club. There are exercise classes available, swimming pools, playgrounds etc. Also, large events are held there. You have to become a member by paying monthly or annual fees. There is also an archery club that is enjoyed by many. Know a friend of a friend and you are in.

International Schools in Paysandu

There are several international schools that we are aware of in Paysandu. They offer English teaching classes, curriculum etc. We have not used them or are aware of anyone that has to provide further information.

Shopping in Paysandu

Most people shop at their local Ta-Ta Supermarket (equivalent to a Ralph's in California). There they carry everything that a normal supermarkets carries. Fruiterias, or fruit & vegetable stands, are available on every corner for delicious seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables. Your local corner bakery provides many fresh baked breads and goods.

Public Transportation

The public transportation is very safe and comfortable and simply include buses and taxis that most people might already be familiar with. Also, it is not uncommon to see people hitchhiking. In the local city, lots of places are conveniently within walking distance

Climate

Although humid at times, the weather is quite pleasant most of the year. There is always a breeze refreshing and cleaning the air. It does rain a lot; however the following days things dry out quickly and life goes on as usual. Winters could get cold, but tend to be short

Restaurants and Nightlife

We do not take advantage of all the amazing restaurants and nightlife due to personal reasons. Believe it or not, but there is a pizza parlor on nearly every corner. Parisias, or outdoor barbecues, are quite common and every home comes with one. Most restaurants open late in the evening and stay open even later making for your average dinner a nightlife experience. There are lots of dance clubs that seem to be popular amongst the locals.

What are local hospitals and emergency services like?

Our local hospital is about 15 minutes away from us here, living in the country. Fortunately, we have not had to use any hospital or emergency services, but have heard that the private hospitals' standards of service are high and response rate is good. Public hospitals are typical and crowded and less attentive compared to private.

Recreational Activities in Paysandu

Recreational activities are quite popular here in Paysandu and constitute a good quality of life. Most are friends or family events and include golf and swimming at the golf club and archery at the archery club. Competition bike riding is common amongst 10-speed bike riders, mountain bike riders and dirt bike riders. Horseback riding is a common pastime for country-dwellers or city-dwellers, enjoying it on the weekends. There also is a racetrack for racing cars that is popular amongst the race car "junkies". Amongst all these activities soccer or "futile" is by far the most popular, most enjoyed, and cheapest sport that Uruguayans enjoy. Along with many of these recreational activities, good-ole camping is quite popular.

Residency and Visa Requirements

Applying for residency is a process and sometimes could take over a year. There is a lot of beauracracy involved with lots of paperwork needed. You are able to visit Uruguay on a passport for 90 days before having to travel outside the country to get your passport stamped, which by default, renews your passport for another 90 days.

Crime in Paysandu, Uruguay

Petty theft is the most common crime to be concerned about and is only common in big cities. Rarely do you here about crime events in the smaller or rural country towns. However; like the rest of the world crime rates are on the rise.