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The birthplace of tango and proud home of chefs’ favorite Bife de ChorizoArgentina is the number one destination for tourists heading to South America, not only because its culture and cuisine are unparalleled, but also because it very safe for foreigners:
Compared to its neighbors, Argentina has lower rates of violent crime, scams and even pickpocketing, making it a favorite destination for first-time visitors to the lower half of this hemisphere, but it is not the only country in the region that qualifies as low risk .
In fact, a small country Sandwiched between Argentina and Brazil, with an equally vibrant culture and a food scene that rivals Buenos Aires just as safe (except it’s mostly ignored by tourists):
Welcome to seriously underrated Uruguay
One of the lesser known and smallest countries in South America, Uruguay is overshadowed by the much larger states it borders, namely Argentina and Brazil.
Call it a lack of connectivity or a lack of interest, but country hoppers tend to bypass this altogether.
In a sense, we can’t blame them, as Uruguay’s largest international airport, the mid-sized Carrasco, hosts An seasonal flight from Miami in the United States, and the only transatlantic connection is via Madrid; on the one hand this means that it is more difficult to achieve, on the other hand… you guessed it:
The level of tourism is relatively low.
Last year the country registered 3.8 million tourists, but that is an increase of 55% year on yearthe country is still far behind Argentina, which welcomes an average of 8.3 million people per year. Long story short: large parts of Uruguay to stay undiscovered.
But what are tourists missing, and does South America’s second largest sovereign state have anything to offer at all?
Vibrant Spanish culture
Most travelers head to South America for its fascinating culture, and we’re happy to report this Uruguay is no exception to the rule: although street markets and ethnic-indigenous cuisine may be harder to find – most Uruguayans are simply of European descent – their Spanish cannot be denied.
Most modern Uruguayans are descendants of migrants who are believed to have arrived from the Iberian Peninsula, the sunniest part of Europe, home to both Portugal and Spain. So it is no surprise that strong southern European customs have been preserved.
Whether it is the lively Spanish spoken on the streets, with its own distinct Uruguayan accent, or the eclectic cuisine:strongly influenced by SpainPortugal and Italy, we have to say: you’ll find yourself falling in love with this unusual South American gem in no time.
Incredible cuisine
For all our fellow foodies among us: we’re keeping it real: Uruguayan cuisine has no particularly distinguishing feature, heavily dependent on its European originsas well as regional foods imported from the border areas of Argentina and Brazil.
That’s not to say it isn’t melt-in-your-mouth stuff: if you’re keen to try it asado (yes, they have them there too), be sure to stop by La Pulperia in Montevideo or the up-and-coming La Cocina de Pedro, for the tenderest beef you’ll ever sink your teeth into.
Do you long for the Mediterranean instead? Uruguay remains true to its Southern European origins, and of Paella Unpleasant tortillas Unpleasant patatas Bravas to pasta, the list of Spanish style tabernas and the Italian-run trattorias are endless, especially if you live in the capital.
An exciting capital
Speaking of which, Montevideo just might be one of the most underrated city trips in South America, with its many museums, classic squares surrounded by open-air restaurants and bars, stately architecture and a vibrant waterfront.
While not as elegant as Buenos Aires’ Haussmann-modeled city center, it is local Ciudad Vieja has its own unique appeal, combining colonial, art deco and neoclassical buildings, and you could say that Mercado del Puerto’s steakhouse selection is superior to that of Puerto Madero, the rival capital.
Buenos Aires’ nightlife is nothing short of riotous, but that of Montevideo should not be underestimatedor.
Just know that if you’re looking for a more bohemian vibe, bar-lined Pocitos is the place to be, not the more traditionalist downtown area.
A large number of colonial treasures
Uruguay has colonial cities that date back centuries, including the charming Colonia del Sacramentoa cobblestone settlement on the banks of the historic Río de La Plata, opposite Buenos Aires in Argentina.
It was founded by the Portuguese and is one of the two countries of Uruguay UNESCO World Heritage Sitesknown for its rows of colorful low houses, and its well-maintained historic center, which has remained virtually untouched in more than three centuries.
Quaint, colorful Carmelo, surrounded by family-owned vineyards, is also not to be missed, and if you’re wondering how life unfolds on the Atlantic Ocean, fishing port La Paloma and the national surfing capital of La Pedrera are two of the top choices. for a sun-drenched holiday on the coast.
It is home to the ‘Miami of the South’
Beachfront accommodations, a yacht-dominated marina, luxury casinos and duty-free shopping: welcome to Punta del Esteor whatever the industry likes to call it,’Miami of the South‘, and Uruguay’s premier holiday destination.
Located at the tip of a narrow peninsula jutting out into the Atlantic Ocean, Punta Del Este is the favorite summer destination of every high-income Uruguayan, when they are not flying abroad, with a highly developed hospitality and entertainment scene and a sense of home away from home. to national treasure Casa Pueblo.
For the average American, Punta Del Este is one of the most affordable coastal towns south of the equator line, with overnight stays in the five-star hotel Grand Hotel costs as cheap as $137 while bungalow style stays Il Belvedere start this summer from just $181 per night.
Uruguay is safer than most South American countries
Last but certainly not least, Uruguay is certainly not the safest country in the world for tourism, but within its geopolitical context it is relatively safe: compared to neighboring Brazil, one of the riskiest countries to stay as a tourist in South America, crime rates are considerable 43% lower.
Crime still occurs, especially in large urban centers such as Montevideo and Punta Del Este, but it is likely to occur in the form of pickpocketing during the day and other forms of petty crime at night, especially in areas frequented by tourists.
According to the US State Department, Americans do not need to reconsider or abandon their trip to Uruguay, but should increased caution for the reasons explained above, similar to most tourist destinations worldwide.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
