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Low, rolling grasslands where sheep and cattle graze peacefully make up much of the landscape of this small country that borders Argentina, Brazil, and the Atlantic Ocean, but this pastoral scene belies the contemporary, progressive attitude of a country that embraces peace and joy. An independent republic headed by a civilian government, anti- discrimination laws are well-enforced, as are ones forbidding the harm of dogs. An animal much beloved across Uruguay, dogs are charmingly found welcoming travelers to pretty streets like those of Colonia del Sacramento, a colonial-era town reminiscent of Lisbon. Barrío Historico, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, forms the center of this resort town alongside the Rio de la Plata. Also a port city, handicrafts, art shops, museums, and a yacht harbor combine to create an idyllic retreat. Another commercial center, and home to the majority of the country's citizens, the capital of Montevideo is no less enchanting. Its surrounding white-sand beach, featuring a series of promenades full of casual strollers, roller skaters, and bikers, guides the way to stunning shores. In true Uruguayan tradition, where even houses are given names not numbers, each promenade is named after significant historical figures and organizations, such as Mahatma Gandhi, FDR, and the United Nations. The Port Market is a shopper's delight, but all routes from the Old City lead to the ocean, where nearby Punta del Este's resort area draws the international elite. But for vibrancy and Uruguayan zest for life at its finest, the world's longest Carnival is not to be missed. Forty days of revelry, candombe drums, tango, milonga, and folk music fill the air each year, adding 40 more facets to this unassuming gem quietly hiding in the hills of South America. SheratoN MoNtevideo hotel o o o o the sheraton's 207 spacious guestrooms provide thoughtful amenities and furnishings, as well as views of the bay and the city. the neptune Pool & Fitness center features spectacular views, a sundeck, indoor pool, Jacuzzis ® , and body treatments. Enjoy a delicious meal in the elegant Las carretas restaurant, serving international dishes. tryP MoNtevideo o o o h the trYP Montevideo is located in the garden district of Punta carretas in a beautiful natural environment near the sea, the golf club, and the historic lighthouse. it features 74 well-appointed guestrooms, a heated swimming pool, a fitness center, sauna, restaurant, and lobby bar. MoNtevideo URUGUAY Rivera Melo Salto Artegas Mercedes Fray Bentos Tucuarembo Treinta y Tres Florida Punta del Este Rocha Colonia Montevideo AT L A N T I C O C E A N U R U G U A Y D E H A E D O C U C H I L L A C U C H I LL A G R A N DE B R A Z I L A R G E N T I N A Paysandú Ne g r o R. P a r a ñ a R . R i o d e l a P l at a Buenos Aires These fine hotels are also available: MoNtevideo ESPLENDOR CERVANTES MONTEVIDEO o o o o HOTEL LAFAYETTE o o o o REGENCY ZONA AMERICA o o o o HOTEL URBAN ExPRESS o o o Uruguay 41 Vacation Enhancing tours In a country whose diversions are action-packed, it only makes sense that your itinerary should be, too. Arrange your tours ahead of time for maximum adventure. MoNtevideo Half-Day City Tour Colonia del Sacramento Full-Day Tour punta del este Full-Day Tour coloNia del SacraMeNto Half-Day City Tour Montevideo Full-Day Tour Consult your travel agent for more details on these and other tours. Transfers: A complete selection of private transfers is available.

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