10 Useful Tips For Intercultural Living Through Internships in Chile

In Chile, warm greetings are the norm. Expect a handshake, a hug, or even an air kiss on the right cheek (once a relationship becomes friendly). Chileans stand close when interacting, so don’t back away! These conventions are rooted in local culture and key insights into cultural etiquette in Chile. These local greetings might be different than what you are used to, so you should get accustomed to it before you arrive in the city. Learning how the locals greet each other beforehand will help pretend awkwardness and won’t catch you off guard when they go in for a hug or air kiss.

Chilean communication often relies on subtle cues rather than blunt statements. Interruptions might signal interest. It is not rude to do so. Keeping eye contact and reading between the lines are important aspects of intercultural living in Chilean workspaces. It might be hard to catch on to the subtle cues right away [especially if you are not used to it], so give yourself some time to adjust.

Relationships matter deeply in Chile. Whether you’re in a classroom or office during your internship in Chile, invest time in small talk. You could ask about family, cuisine, or local life. Establishing trust and common ground is integral to cultural etiquette in Chile. Talking to locals and making new friends will give you insights on how the locals live and their culture. Establishing new relationships will make your internship abroad experience more enjoyable. Who knows? You might run into very interesting people and learn about their life story.

While punctuality is a sign of respect, especially in professional settings [like your internship in Chile], don’t be surprised if meetings run late or schedules shift. Balance punctuality with flexibility. It is always better to be early than to be late. You would very much rather be on time and wait than to be late and have it badly reflect on you. 

Appearance matters more in Chile than in many other countries. Even casual attire should be neat and well-presented, especially when interning. Dressing mindfully reflects your respect for hosts and colleagues, and ties into cultural etiquette in Chile. We recommend you to do your research on what the locals wear, so you don’t stand out if your goal is to blend in. Blending in with the locals is also a good safety tip. In the United States, casual attire would mean something comfortable, like hoodies and sweatpants. In other parts of the world, casual clothing could be business casual for Americans. Therefore, it is important to study up on how locals in Chile dress before you make that shopping trip.

Mealtimes are social events in Chile. Use utensils appropriately, compliment the food, and always stay a while after dining. This is good practice in cultural etiquette in Chile. Sharing coffee or lunch with team members can enrich your intercultural living experience and help you connect as an intern. People appreciate foods anywhere in the world, so food is one of the easiest ways to build connections. Use foods as a way to make conversations and build relationships.

Chilean Spanish is unique. Locals drop endings and use slang like bacán (“great”), cachai (“you know?”), and vale (“okay”). Knowing the language will make your travel and internship a lot easier. Understanding (and using) these terms can enhance your intercultural living experience during your internship in Chile.

Some topics, such as politics, human rights (including the Pinochet era), and religion, can be touchy. Avoid broaching them unless your host introduces the subject. Listening respectfully shows maturity and intercultural sensitivity. It is better to avoid topics that can lead to high emotions and heated conversations while travelling abroad. Instead, you could talk about food, culture, or the city you’re in. 

Chileans value solidarity, shaped by historical events and community spirit. Whether you live with a host family or intern with local colleagues, practicing solidarity (Ex. listening, helping, reciprocating goodwill, ect.) is a foundational element of intercultural living.

Mindful intercultural living requires ongoing reflection. Consider jotting down observations from your internship in Chile, such as what worked, what surprised you, or what challenged you. Adjust your approach as necessary; this self-awareness is key to growth. Living abroad for the first time is a big adjustment, so it is good to make notes of what works for you and what you can change.

An internship in Chile is more than a resume-builder, it is a chance to grow as a global citizen. By applying these 10 Useful Tips for Mindful Intercultural Living as an Intern in Chile, you’ll navigate local life with respect, confidence, and curiosity. From personal space norms to humor and language nuances, each tip supports meaningful engagement and unforgettable experiences. Knowing how to effectively live abroad and respect the local culture will make your internship abroad a 100% better. 

Need an internship next summer? Start planning your summer 2026 internship now! Learn more about the program process including the application, housing, costs, and frequently asked questions.