August 25th marks the independence day of Uruguay. Now, when folks think of Latin America, it’s the beaches of Rio, cultural riches of Mexico or Colombia that often come to mind. But don’t sleep; Uruguay is a hidden gem in Latin America. Don’t believe us? Well here are five things every man can love about Uruguay.
1. Weed Is Legal
Come on; fess up, most if not all of us have tried marijuana at some point in our lives. For those who like to indulge regularly, Uruguay may just be for you. Why? Pot is legal. No need to fake back pain, nervousness or cataracts for a medicinal card here. Need we say more?
2. They Hosted the Very First World Cup
Not into chemical extracurriculars? Not a problem. If you’re more of a sports guy Uruguay is ground zero for futbol. Not only does it have a pretty damn good national team, but it was the site of the very first ever FIFA World Cup in 1930. Estadio Centenario where many of the games were played was even declared by FIFA as the only historical monument of World Football, the only building of its kind and definitely worth a visit for any fan.
3. Punta del Este
If sports aren’t your thing, we hope beaches, beautiful women and great nightlife are. Because Punta del Este is where it’s at for all those things. When travel guides start referring to you as “The Monte Carlo” or “The Hamptons” of Latin America you’re probably doing something right in the luxury/fun department. Bottom line, if you’re looking for great beaches, food, women, casinos and other nightlife then book your travel for this stretch of Atlantic coast located in the capital Maldonado about 80 miles east of Monevideo.
4. The Women
Oh yes, gents, see below. While Natalia Orrerio is one of the more famous women to come out of Uruguay, there is definitely more where she came from!
5. Mate
Starbucks has got nothing on Uruguay in the coffee or tea department. Try a funky little tea called Mate. This is a traditional South American caffeine-rich infused drink, particularly popular in Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina (where it is defined by law as the “national infusion”). It’s prepared by steeping dried yerba mater leaves in hot water and served in a special gord with metal straw called a bombilla. It’s usually drank amongst a group with the motto of “drink-pass-refill.” It’s got an extra kick, which….let’s just say its often been referred to a Latin American absinthe for certain hallucinogenic properties. Click below for a quick overview of how to prepare.
