What to see and do in Montevideo and environs, Uruguay
December 27, 2007 9:31 AM 
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Where should we go in Montevideo, Uruguay? 40-something couple (M/F) seek tips on restaurants, sights, shopping, good photo spots (we're both serious Flickrites). We'll be there in February. Have already collected various guidebook and internet tips - looking for personal experiences of great places. Will also be in Colonia del Sacramento and probably taking a day trip to Punta del Este to photograph Casapueblo.
posted by matildaben to travel & transportation (1 comment total)
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Are you there February SECOND is the key question? That's the date of the celebration for Yemaja in the syncretic Yoruba-Catholic religion, involving Mardi-Gras-esque parades, candlelit prayers at the beach, public blessings and baptisms, and some dead chickens.
Besides that.
* I went with my mom last year and we stayed at the redhostel - it's slightly hostel atmosphere, but you can have a giant private room for two with a huge balcony for something like $25US/night.
* Most memorable meal in Uruguay was at Palenque (spelling...?), seafood and steak place. Under $10/head at lunchtime. Food's basically delicious everywhere though; you can order anything you would in Argentina but it will be half the price.
Overall, this is just a great town to walk around in and enjoy on foot, especially if your goal is to take pictures!
* The port area has a good shopping and restaurant area, you can't miss it but I don't remember the name offhand.
* There's an old square area with the new ministry of justice and many old colonial buildings, palm-lined avenues, etc. Good central place for walking.
* Playa Ramirez is long and stunning, with shallow water out almost as far as you can see.
These are a few things off the top of my head because I'm just about to leave for work, but I have some pictures from Yemaja and Montevideo here, anything that says UY is Uruguay.
posted by whatzit at 2:33 PM on December 27, 2007