Uruguay

On the Atlantic coast between the well-known countries of Brazil and Argentina, Uruguay has a unique culture that is all its own. Unlike other South American countries, Uruguay does not have a native population. The majority of its people are of European descent, mostly Spanish and Italian. As a result, the Spanish spoken is similar to that of Spain with Italian influences here and there. Along the border of Brazil people speak a dialect which is a combination of Portuguese and Uruguayan Spanish called Portuñol. Uruguay is also one of the most prosperous, well-educated, and urban nations in South America. In recent years, people from neighbor countries have discovered the unlimited vacation potential of Uruguay and its tourism industry has been booming. Along the 200 miles of Atlantic coast sit some of the world's finest beach resorts. Punta del Este, Uruguay's most well-known coastal city, is famous for luxurious hotels and restaurants as well as the best nightlife in the country. Only about an hour away by car is the country's capital, Montevideo. This metropolis is home to over half of the Uruguayan population. With the feel of a Western European city, Montevideo and its historic center, La Ciudad Vieja, are full of charming, narrow streets and ancient reminders of the past. Also, any of the many tango clubs are sure to have an entrancing show as tango is a way of life in Uruguay. Outside of the city, Uruguay's landscape is dominated by grassy plains with a few wooded areas and slow-moving streams. These plains are typical gaucho country and tell the story of the famous Uruguayan cowboy. Thanks to this profession and lifestyle, Uruguay is home to some of the finest steak in the world. Uruguayans are said to eat more red meat than any other people. The second smallest country in South America is also one the continent's best vacation destinations.