Living in Chile

Chile is a long, narrow country on the west coast of South America, between the Pacific Ocean and the Andes; around 18.7 million people live there. In the north lies the extremely dry Atacama, while the center is characterized by fertile valleys and the temperate area around Santiago; the south is defined by lakes, forests, fjords, and cool, often rainy weather. People live in densely built cities, suburbs, coastal towns, or remote settlements. In Santiago and other centers, buses, subways, and cars shape daily life; in the south, longer journeys are common. People work in fields including services, mining, agriculture, fishing, and industry. Leisure activities include family meals, soccer, hiking, beach visits, and meeting in cafés.