To understand Uruguay, you need to come here for at least a couple of weeks. Then there is every chance to catch that very tranquila (calmness) – a feeling of the fullness of life at the moment, which the locals are so famous for.
While golden autumn is gaining momentum in Moscow, early spring is in Uruguay. Here everything is the opposite: we have summer, there it is winter, we live at an accelerated pace, and the main motto of the Uruguayans is “calm, only calm”. Another continent – and that’s it. This is how our heroine Maya Svetlova, the author of the Instagram blog @twinsagent, tells about Uruguay. More than two years ago, with her husband and children, she came here for work from St. Petersburg.
Local Hermitage
The first impressions of a country about which I really did not know anything come down to three main ones. Firstly, the ocean with clean, well-groomed beaches within the city. Secondly, a huge number of dogs of fighting breeds without collars and muzzles. And the most shocking thing is that the windows on private houses are surrounded by bars, and some fences are barbed wire. But it is the ocean that still amazes. I call it my “Hermitage” and never cease to admire it at any time of the year.
Over time, I realized another positive side of Uruguay – people. Friendly, calm and, most importantly, happy. It is absolutely normal for them to come to the embankment after work to enjoy the sunset, play football with the children, breathe in the smell of the sea. No one is in a hurry to go anywhere, and even more so, they do not exhaust themselves with work – they do not stay longer than they should in the office. Everyone finds pleasure here and now – this is such a hygge approach to life.
On the other hand, the relaxation and leisurely pastime of the Uruguayans affects their standard of living. Sometimes it seems that you are again at the beginning of the XNUMXs. There is no gloss inherent in Europe. And this despite the fact that Montevideo, the capital, is one of the three most expensive cities in Latin America. Paradox? Still would! But this is the whole of Uruguay.
Breaking stereotypes
All tourists talk about the local cuisine. But, in my opinion, it is much tastier to buy local meat and fry it yourself. Or go on a culinary adventure to Argentina, from Montevideo it is within easy reach. But the wine here is excellent. Especially the tannate. Uruguayans consider this grape variety national, despite the fact that its roots are French. If possible, be sure to visit the wineries Bouza, Garzon, Stagnari. A decent selection of wine, and at the same time, stunning landscapes are provided.
Everything is for real
Feel the real Uruguay is best in the former fishing village of Punta del Diablo. This place is famous for its special peaceful atmosphere, mesmerizing ocean and endless beaches. But it may not be easy to find comfortable accommodation here.
For an expensive “civilized” vacation, set up an internal navigator in Punta del Este, one of the best resorts in South America. Even the Brazilians, who have their breathtaking beaches in their arsenal, are frequent guests in this place. For history lovers, the city of Colonia del Sacramento, founded by the Portuguese in 1680, is now included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Need to know
- Be sure to walk around the old town and the Poquitos, Prado area. These neighborhoods are interesting for private houses built in the colonial style.
- The most comfortable time to travel is from November to mid-December and from late January to late March. It can be hot in January and resort prices skyrocket.
- Observe personal safety. You should not take expensive jewelry to Uruguay – the simpler you are dressed, the less risk of falling for the bait of street thieves.