World-renowned for its windswept coastline and champion football team, Uruguay is gently conquering the hearts and minds of sophisticated wine connoisseurs, zealous world explorers and hidden culture aficionados.
By Anya Oskolkova | Originally published in WildJunket Magazine April/May 2012
W ith swagger and suaveness, Uruguay has the air of a quiet yet charismatic gentleman. Unlike its flashy neighbors, the country oozes subtle charm and seduces by slowly unveiling itself to those curious enough to thread its paths. Geographically complex, Uruguay is as diverse as any other country in South America – from traditional gaucho culture to colonial history; glitzy beaches to lush jungles; dramatic beaches to towering sand dunes. It’s all packed in one small land the size of Washington State.
Unlike its flashy neighbors, Uruguay oozes subtle charm and seduces by slowly unveiling itself to those curious enough to thread its paths.
Despite such diversity, Uruguay comes off as a proud, united nation where soccer is worshipped like a religion and parilla steak is enjoyed by everyone, as is the fine red wine fermented in local vineyards.
Not as under-the-radar as it used to be, this South American country is still far off the conventional tourist trail and offers plenty of unexplored travel routes.
Unlike its flashy neighbors, Uruguay oozes subtle charm and seduces by slowly unveiling itself to those curious enough to thread its paths.
In the country’s southwest lies a patchwork of ancient towns that leaves plenty of history aficionados in awe, for good reasons. The famous Old Town Montevideo illustrates an easy-going Uruguayan lifestyle against the backdrop of UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The Atlantic coast in the east is littered with a striking variety of beach towns reminiscent of the French Riviera, but without the flashy glitz and glamor. A favorite among South Americans, these Uruguayan beach towns are best known for their nonchalant atmosphere and laidback style.
The northwestern route will please anyone who seeks to discover new cultures and embrace local traditions. Here, you’ll be warmly welcomed by hospitable and down-to-earth gauchos or cowboys who are more than eager to show you their slice of the country on horseback.
Within the country’s interior, experience a different kind of rural nature amidst luscious forests and preserved green parks, as well as picturesque creeks and challenging hiking trails. These remote corners are magnets for intrepid travelers seeking adventure and thrill.
Despite all that the country has to offer, it’s the Uruguayans that will probably strike you most. With their positive spirit and energy, they’ll surprise, motivate and move you in ways you’d never imagine.
This is just a preview of the 10-page feature article in WildJunket Magazine.
About the Author
If you enjoyed this preview, you can read the full article in WildJunket Magazine April/May 2012.
A favorite among South Americans, these Uruguayan beach towns are best known for their nonchalant atmosphere and laidback style. Good Point.
It’s really great to hear about the beach and other entertainment ideas from here. I am sure the details of secret Uruguay discussed make sense in a big way to me.
Secret Uruguay is a big subject for me. Thanks for dicuess this issue.