Nestled in between Argentina and Brazil in South America, lies the very intriguing country of Uruguay. Perhaps this small South American nation is a little less well-known than some of its counterparts, but Uruguay has a variety of natural wonders and cultural jewels to be admired and appreciated by tourists.

Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay is easily accessed by cruise ships and its downtown area offers many “churrasquerías”, which are special restaurants that cook steak and other types of beef in outdoor cafés. Make sure to include a bottle of local red wine with your meal. Live music is usually played on the streets of Montevideo and the local people enjoy talking long walks, window shopping and dancing in the various Latin American style bars located throughout the capital.

You can feel the Spanish influence in the architecture of the churches found in Montevideo and the cobblestone streets make you feel as if you were walking in Europe. The city also offers its visitors a whole array of cultural museums and art galleries to visit.

A trip to Montevideo would not be complete without strolling along La Rambla, whose promenade runs along the spectacular Rio de la Plata beach. This white, sandy beach starts from the Ciudad Vieja ( Old Town) near the port market area and runs to the trendy neighbourhood of Carrasco. 

Montevideo has a variety of different clubs and discotheques available for all tastes. Spanish style flamenco music can be found in local bars, as well as Latin American salsatheques and other discos which play the very popular rhythms of reggaeton, merengue and bachata. Uruguayans like to have fun and are usually quite fond of hitting the dance floor.

For those who enjoy nature, head to the Jardín Botánico or Botanical Garden where pink roses and other flowers bloom in abundance. Also a trip to the Parque Rodo or Rodo Park is a fun filled adventure for the whole family. This seaside park not only offers the regular amenities such as a gorgeous lake and a variety of trees, it also has numerous restaurants, discotheques, summer theatre and an amusement centre built in. Parque Rodo is a pretty and serene place to visit any time of theyear.

Whether you are taking in the stunning scenery at the Botanical Garden, dancing all night at one of Montevideo’s salsatheques or savoring the delicious food, Uruguay’s people and culture will leave you hungry for more.