Uruguay had to fight the Spanish for their Independence and then turn around and wrest control of their country again from Argentina and Brazil. Since then they've racked up a notable list of firsts:
Often called the Switzerland of the Americas not for geographical features but for a stable democracy and social benefits such as free education Uruguay is now facing an economic crisis. Long a desired country for immigration Uruguay is now facing a brain drain as the younger citizens leave the country for greener pastures. For more about Uruguayan Cultural Values read up on the History of Uruguay in Geography and History.
Uruguay has a lot to offer visitors. Most people know of the beaches of which Punta Del Este is probably the most famous. As Uruguay is bounded on three sides by water there is much to choose from. The Costa de Oro or the Golden Coast follows the curve of Rio de la Plata and offers many fine resort areas.
The Ocean Coasts facing the Atlantic and others along the Rio de la Plata and other rivers offer more choices. If you're looking for more than beach activities, Piriapolis combines a beach resort and health spas reminiscent of some of Europe's most famous spas.
You'll probably spend some time in cosmopolitan Montevideo where you'll see the Plaza del Entrevero and enjoy visits to the Virtual Museum of Arts el Pais which offers a high tech approach to museum visiting. You'll want a list of Things to see and do but make sure you tour the Museum of American Art, located in an historic estancia in Maldonado. []]p] Simpatico is the way some describe the Uruguayan coumtry lifestyle where El Gaucho reigns.
For the environmentally minded traveler there are a number of Ecological Tours after which you might enjoy a restful soak in one of four thermal hot springs, perhaps in Guaviyu, which offers complete entertainment facilities for the whole family.
Whether you're soaking up the rays at a beach resort sampling the Gaucho way of life or sampling Urugauyan cuisine, enjoy Uruguay!
