• Colombia!

    Colombia: Caribbean Sea coast. Go Now!

    Colombia
    Although most of the people live inland, Colombia also has its share of coastline along the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea (pictured). Go Now!

  • Ecuador!

    Ecuador: Sally Lightfoot Crab. Go Now!

    Ecuador
    The Galapagos Islands and Ecuador are home to incredible wildlife, such as the famous Galapagos Turtle and the lesser known, but more common Red Rock or Sally Lightfoot crab (pictured). Begin Your Journey!

  • Chile!

    Chile: Torres del Paine National Park. Go Now!

    Chile
    The Andes dominate much of Chile, including the breath-taking Torres del Paine National Park (pictured). However, the country also hosts the world's driest desert and a thriving metropolis. Begin Your Journey!

  • Venezuela!

    Venezuela: Los Roques. Go Now!

    Venezuela
    Rooted in Europe, Venezuela boasts an impressive history, culture, and beauty, including the Caribbean Coast (pictured). Explore Venezuela!

  • Bolivia!

    Bolivia: Salt flats. Go Now!

    Bolivia
    This hidden gem is full of surprises, from the impressive salt flats (pictured) to the migrating flamingos. It also clings to the most historic indigenous culture on the continent. Explore Bolivia!

Relationships, Marriage, & Family Life in Chile

Due to a fairly conservative religious attitude, pre-marital sex is considered inappropriate in Chile and few couples will live together prior to marriage. Despite this, dating is common and seems to have a different dynamic than dating takes on in many other countries. Young men in Chile tend to be "mothered" to an extreme degree and when it comes to dating it often takes on a similar relationship. Once married these relationships change little as women often go overboard to take care of their husband in domestic situations and men support their wives both financially and emotionally.

Once a couple decides to marry, most Chileans have two wedding ceremonies: a civil ceremony in a government office attended by a few people and a religious ceremony held in a church. The church ceremony is generally more formal and is often attended by a large group of people. The bride often wears white and the groom a traditional Chilean outfit including a poncho, boots, hat, and sometimes is even accompanied by a horse. At this ceremony the wedding rings will also be shifted from the right hand (where it is worn during the engagement) to the left hand.

The wedding ceremony is often followed up with a huge celebration that includes dinner, drinks (including the necessary pisco sour and local wines), and dancing. This often begins late and ends at 5:00-6:00 am the next day, sometimes with breakfast.

After getting married these young couples (most Chileans marry in their early- to mid-20s) start families rather quickly and often move into their own house (prior to marriage most young people live with their parents). Divorce is not allowed in Chile (although an annulment can be made) so couples almost always remain together for life with their growing families, which tends to end with two children, although some couples only have one and others have more kids.

Generally, men are expected to financially support the family in Chile as women more often take on the role of caregiver to the children, while also running the house. This position women take in the home is one of truly caring for the family and many families would struggle to adjust without this role, which is viewed with great respect. However, today many women are going to work, especially in Santiago.

This page was last updated: November, 2013