The country's cosmopolitan capital, Montevideo accounts for more than half of the Uruguay's 3.5 million inhabitants, and is the nucleus for the country's impressive economic activity, as well as the cultural center of this small but very dynamic nation.  

Colonia del Sacramento, the oldest city in Uruguay and one of the best surviving examples of Portuguese colonial architecture. Located just across the Rio de la Plata from Buenos Aires, Colonia is small and quaint, but has the benefit of easy access to one of the world's great cities.

Uruguay's favorite beach destination, Punta Del Este, is a magnate for trendy international travelers drawn to the beaches, cafes, restaurants, and exhilarating nightlife.

Music and Dance in Uruguay, like that of its Argentine neighbor is greatly influenced by its gaucho roots, and can take much of the credit for the worldwide popularity of the Tango. As a result of the gaucho influence cuisine here tends to be meat oriented, with Asado and various types of sausage are the most popular dishes. The Uruguayan love of art, is evident throughout the country, and the blending of the two is unmistakable in Carlos Páez Vilaró's  brilliant Casapueblo, a must see for anyone visiting Punta Este.

The scenic shores, hot springs, fishing, horse and cattle ranches, rich colonial heritage, charming small towns, and the excitement of Montevideo make Uruguay a great choice for a vacation or as part of a more extensive Latin American itinerary