Chile

Santiago 

About 

Chile covers a narrow slice of South America and manages to squeeze in mountains, desert, cities, and beaches within its limited width.  The country is recognized as one of South America's leading nations in terms of human rights, prosperity, and low levels of corruption.  From the world's driest desert in the north of Antarctic territory in the south, you're sure to find a suitable climate, though the capitol Santiago will have your best options for work, especially if your Spanish skills are limited.

Best For 

- Couples with college degrees, especially those that work in mining, IT, or engineering

- Australians, Canadians, and Kiwis aged 18 - 35 with a healthy savings account

- Professionals in mining, construction, and agriculture 

- Spanish/English speaking couples 

- Brave and experienced teachers

Visa Information 

Visas are given to foreigners once you sign a contract with an employer - getting the contract is the tricky part.  Many jobs, including teaching English, will rarely give you either, in which case visa runs must be made every 90 days (Mendoza is close and has great wine).  Working holiday visas are available for 18-30 year olds from Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.  You're limited to work in the travel industry that doesn't pay much if at all, but it's a good way to spend a year without spending much money.  

Mmmm...visa runs....

The Moneys 

From 200,000 CLP ($385 USD) per month for a degree-less worker in the mining industry on minimum wage, to 2 million CLP ($3850) for a senior executive or engineer.  If you strike it lucky, have experience, and enjoy long days and subway rides, teaching English pays 4-10,000 CLP ($8-38) per hour. 

Jobs Available 

You'll have to take a leap of faith and land before looking.  Professional positions in engineering, oil, and mining can be found, especially with some Spanish and networking, and teaching English is an option, but reportedly tough.  You'll have the best luck with teaching jobs in March as the entire country goes on holiday in February. But beware:  the market is flooded (and it's seemingly difficult to find a positive article about teaching there). 

In Summary 

Looks good if you're into ore, tiding a trip over, or just feeling lucky.