I am studying abroad and have the choice of Valdivia, Chile or Quito, Ecuador. Any advice?

Question

I am studying abroad and have the choice of Valdivia, Chile or Quito, Ecuador. Any advice?

Answer 1

What are you studying?  If you want to study Quechua, definitely go to Quito.  If you're interested in the Mapuche, go to Valdivia.  The Chileans are more European probably and more socially active.

Answer 2

I went to Chile! I studied (high school exchange program) in Santiago, but I had heard of Valdivia a lot. I think it is a little bit more countryish.  I mean, to be honest, outside of Santiago, the term "city" isn't the same.  Things are a little slower, still very modern in most cities..but I don't know..it's just not the same. In Santiago you feel like you are in Los Angeles, no lie.  It keeps culture shock on a minimum if you are from the city.  But at the same time, it is nice and a bit more challenging to experience life outside of Santiago.

Chile is a humble country, but it is bountiful in its natural beauty.  Also, the rules in Chile are veryyyyyyyyyyy relaxed; meaning you can "party" ( at almost any age) a lot if you catch my drift!

I can ask my Chilean friend who I know goes to Valdivia a lot to describe more how it is if you are interested.  

Still, don't choose Chile just because you are hearing more about it than Ecuador. I have no idea how Ecuador is and it can be just as great.

Good luck!

Answer 3

Chile is perceived as one of the safest latinamerican countries ...

Well, I am Chilean, so my advice could be a bit biased :-)

I studied at Concepcion University, but have always been from the south of Chile (Puerto Montt, Chaiten, Coyhaique) and I can assure you that it is beautiful! Lakes, mountains, volcanos (some active) ...

My little brother is studying Architecture at Universidad Austral in Valdivia and absolutely loves the place. It not as hectic as Santiago, obviously, but it is still a fairly big place, with tons of restaurants, shops and a beautiful river. Apparently there is a lot to do at night time as well (my brother doesn't tell much). Ah!, and they make great chocolate, beer and sausages, since the south of Chile received a large number of German immigrants during the 19th century.

I have never been to Quito but keeping in mind that it is the capital I suppose it's quite a place as well.

It depends on what you want to study. Valdivia is great for sciences, veterinary and aquiculture.

I hope it helps!

Answer 4

my spanish teacher studied in chile and loved it. but i haven't gotten the chance to study abroad yet, so pick whichever one you like the best.