Uruguay Showcases Its Strengths as a Destination to Live at Expat Event 2025

Uruguay’s appeal as a place to live, invest and integrate into a new community was at the center of the Expat Event 2025, brought together international residents, newcomers and hundreds of people exploring the possibility of relocating to the country.

Uruguay XXI participated through the initiative Live in Uruguay, which provides centralized, practical and trustworthy information for those looking to live, work, study, start a business or invest in Uruguay. The agency was also represented by Paola Mancino, Investment Portfolio Specialist, who outlined the country’s favorable investment landscape, legal stability and long-term predictability—factors that consistently attract global talent and investors.

A lifestyle defined by tranquility, safety and community

Throughout the event, expats shared stories that highlighted the qualities that continue to make Uruguay one of the region’s most appealing relocation destinations: a high quality of life, a sense of security, and a welcoming social atmosphere.

For Joy, originally from Boise, Idaho, the country’s character was evident from the very first visit.

“Life in Uruguay is tranquil, it’s quiet, it’s peaceful,” she said. “I would add that it’s safe—and in a world of chaos, safety is an important thing.”

Joy and her husband first traveled to Uruguay in 2014 for a one-month trial stay. What struck them most was the hospitality, “people who had no idea who we were said, ‘You can stay with us. You can use our car. We can help you.’ It was extraordinary,” she recalled.

Cultural warmth also left a mark:
“Hello and goodbye here are long and lovely—always a kiss on the cheek. We felt part of the family of Uruguay pretty quickly.”

For Tom, from Belgium, and Natalie, from Peru, the country´s appeal was clear:

“Many things interest us about Uruguay. Let’s start with the stable economy, the safety, and the people—muy amable,” said Tom.

They also quickly embraced Uruguay’s traditions, from the parrilla -the traditional wood-fired grill, centerpiece of local gatherings- to the slower pace of life.

Natalie highlighted the friendliness that defines daily interactions:

“People always ask ‘¿Cómo vas? ¿Todo bien?’ They take the time to check in. I love that.”

Both agreed on one more thing: Uruguay’s signature wine. “Every time we go to a restaurant, we order Tannat. It’s the best,” Natalie said.

Integration, nature and simpler living

For Heather Bjork, originally from Pittsburgh and founder of the Uruguay Expat Group on Facebook—which has grown from 30 members to more than 8,000—the country offers a lifestyle rooted in meaningful connections.

“I fell in love with the people, the beauty, and the vibe. It felt like going back in time in the best sense: simpler pleasures, connecting with nature, valuing relationships,” she explained.

Her family quickly embraced local traditions:

“We started choosing the parrilla over the North American barbecue. Every celebration now means a parrilla—even our vegan daughter, because it’s about shared time and a slow pace.”

Integration has been deep and lasting: “Our kids, even as native English speakers, speak only Spanish with their friends. We feel very much part of the community,” she added.

A growing community of newcomers

As Uruguay continues to strengthen its international positioning, events like Expat Event 2025 play a key role in fostering connections among those who are already part of the country’s multicultural landscape and those considering making Uruguay their next home.

Uruguay XXI’s participation reflects an ongoing commitment to support newcomers with accurate, accessible information and a welcoming framework for settling in the country.

For more information about living in Uruguay, visit www.liveinuruguay.uy.