Buenos Aires is usually my first thought. Amazing food scene, super social culture even if you don’t drink, and people are patient with basic Spanish. Tons of neighborhoods to rotate through so it never feels stale. Nature isn’t right there, but Patagonia or Iguazú are easy add ons.
Medellín is another solid pick. Great weather, very social, easy to meet people, and weekend trips into the mountains are simple. Spanish helps, but you’ll survive with basics. Food scene is improving, not world class but good enough.
Mexico City is technically LATAM adjacent, but it checks almost every box. Incredible food, endless culture, very social without everything revolving around alcohol, and tons of nature day trips. Also one of the easiest places to live without fluent Spanish.
If you want something a bit calmer, Lima is underrated. Food scene is elite, coast nearby, and good access to nature on weekends. Social scene exists, just less in your face.
Hard to go wrong with any of those. Depends if you want big chaotic energy or something more relaxed.
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