Chile Forum

Haha. Yeah, that would work if you're from a place that people everywhere have heard of, like Las Vegas.

In Chile, I usually just say that I'm from the US. Typically they then ask which state. Any time that I've told people that I'm from South Carolina, I usually get one of those "Ahhhhh", meaning, "I have no idea where that is." Or it gets followed up by a question like "Is that close to Miami?"

Or the question you may get after they learn you are from the US, "Do you know [insert name here], they're from the US too". Not a famous person, but someone they met before.

El ovallino states that when he became a US citizen he had to a give up his Chilean citizenship. My hubby is Chilean and he also became a US citizen...and you do not have to give up your Chilean citizenship. He has dual citzenship and current passports from Chile and the US. So were given incorrect info I believe. So that makes you Chileno/Americano...or something like that

Actually, most often when asked where am I from, I say, Lots of places; where would you like me to be from? Yes, it is hokey, but disarming.

eeuunikkeiexpat wrote:. . . . Now only if they would stop grouping us "norteamericanos" together (imagine the thought of a Canadian, Mexican, other Central American and USA person holding hands around the campfire singing Kumbaya ).

My chuckle for the day. Thanks, EE.UU.!

Ok can someone clarify this for me pretty please!

Turko, is that like saying "Paki" "Chink" in English, in reference to it being actually derogatory or is it a "haha lets just play with some lingual banter" I only ask this as my Chilean friends often refer to me as "Turko". I am not even in Chile yet but when I get there will it be a badge on me? Just a break down on me British/Persian mix so I understand the Turkish badge, however I always presumed I looked French?

Any info would be grand!

Be prepared for some using that as your nickname, perhaps behind your back. Not malicious as chilenos use chino, negro, gringo, turco, flaco, gordo, pelado, guevon as playful and friendly descriptions all the time.

On the other hand, certain modifiers like culeado can definitely be malicious.

Holy dead threads, Batman!!!

I have been a recovering American for 60 years but think I have finally found the cure. (I arrived in Santiago two days ago) God, I love this place!

Right well thats alright then, I dont mind I just probably get called gringo or something, or turko.

Cheers People!

helitool wrote:I have been a recovering American for 60 years but think I have finally found the cure. (I arrived in Santiago two days ago) God, I love this place!

Welcome to Chile!