Uruguay
Uruguay is the third smallest country in South America. Holding the River Plate close to it the country is surrounded by Brazil, Argentina, the Uruguay River, Argentina and blends into the Atlantic Ocean on the south east. The landscapes that it presents are made up of hilly ranges, rolling plains, fertile coastal land including the grazing lands for the sheep and cows and the sparkling rivers. Transparency International says that it is the second least corrupt country next to Chile in the province of Latin America. When in Uruguay be prepared to receive and give a kiss on the right cheek and hug, it is a Uruguayan custom.
Travel to UruguayThe national airway for Uruguay is PLUNA which cater to several locations in Chile, Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. Other international flights that reach Uruguay are Air France, Copa Airlines, LAN, United Airlines, Aerolineas Argentinas, Air Class, American Airlines, Lufthansa, TAM Mercosur and more.
The international airport you can access to reach Uruguay is Carrasco International Airport which is located in Montevideo. The distance between the airport and the city is about 19 km and it takes about 35 minutes for your journey. An airport bus operates from the terminal to the city regularly. Taxis are also accessible from the airport. An authorised currency exchanger, duty free shops, travel information, restaurants and more are provided at the aerodrome for the comfort of travellers.
Attractions
Palacio Salva This is a famous building in Uruguay. It is located in the capital between 18 de Julio Av and Plaza Independencia and stands 26 stories tall. It was the tallest building in South America in the yesteryears and still the tallest in Montevideo. It has a twin – Palacio Barolo on the Av de Mayo and it is on the other side of the river. Both were designed and constructed by Mario Palanti at about the same period. The Palacio Salva was built on the famous location where Gerardo Matos Rodriguez wrote the tango La Cumparista. It is a splendid example of art deco. The international airport connects to the city.
Teatro Solis This was once a well-known music theatre that had worked miracles for renowned musicians and conductors along with lively performers. The architectural style is magnificent enough to attract anyone and the design of the interiors will surely captivate you. Teatro Solis was opened in 1856 and has strong cultural roots. This place now occasionally hosts cultural events.
Language Spanish is the official language in the country of Uruguay. This is the language spoken by almost all of the inhabitants of the country. Other languages used for verbal communication are Corsican, Italian, Plautdietsch, Russian, Catalan Valencian Balear, Lithuanian and Eastern Yiddish. French and Italian also form a status as minorities’ language. Portuguese and Portunol which is a blend of Spanish and Portuguese are spoken by a section. Both are used in northern regions near the Brazilian border. English has taken a good position in the business world and is well known among the younger generation.
Shopping The best things you can go for in Uruguay are Amethyst jewellery, suede jackets, antiques and paintings. Many shops in the Old Town sell antiques and local crafts. Many admirable traditional souvenirs can also be procured from Tristan Narvaja Market.
Peso Uruguayo is the official currency for the country. You can exchange international currencies at banks and authorised exchangers. Tourists are advised not to use hotels as the mode of exchange frequently as the rate of conversion tends to be more. Inflation in Uruguay causes some fluctutions in the conversion rate so check regularly with reliable sources for the current rates. Major international credit cards are accepted in Uruguay but chances are there that your credit card getting rejected by ATMs. So check with your credit card company for details. If you carry Traveller’s cheques then take them in US Dollars to avoid additional costs. Traveller’s cheques are accepted only in Bank of London and South America.
Destinations
Montevideo This capital of Uruguay is located at the south of the country. It is also the chief port of Uruguay. It is a very much loved spot for tourists mainly because of the beaches. Many museums, historic buildings and squares fill the city and present the memories of the Uruguayan culture and life.
Colonia del Sacramento It is a city in the south western part of the country. Tradition and culture is built in this city. Colonia del Sacramento is also the oldest town in the country. Historical parts of the town have been declared as World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
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