Tourism, which brings in more than two billion dollars a year, is growing in tandem with economic stability. Tourism, Uruguay's main economic activity, which brings in more than 2 billion dollars in foreign currency a year, is growing in tandem with economic stability, a comfortable infrastructure and Uruguay's position among the safest countries on the planet. It is one of the only countries in the world that receives as many visitors as it has inhabitants. It not only has a range of beaches and sun during the summer season, but also offers a variety of activities to enjoy throughout the year.
The proposals range from thermal tourism in the northwest, rural stays in almost the entire country, adventure tourism proposals and bird and whale watching, to destinations such as the city of Colonia de Sacramento, which was declared a historical monument of humanity by UNESCO.
The development of the tourist offer and the increasingly positive response from regional and international travellers have been verified in a sustained manner in recent years based on what can be defined as a true State policy. A policy that involves not only the national and departmental tourism authorities, but also the entire private sector, which has been able to provide responses in the quality and diversity of its services and maintain a policy of dialogue and exchange with its counterparts in the public sector.
Montevideo has a multitude of charms
Montevideo, the southernmost capital of South America, first existed as a fortress of the Spanish Empire and later became an important port city in the mid-18th century. Montevideo has something special to offer. Its open-air walks, the charm of its promenade, the colour of the carnival every February, theatres, museums, art galleries and countless bookshops, as well as a varied and excellent gastronomic offer.
The Uruguayan capital has 15 kilometers of beaches, and to the west there are many beaches on the Río de la Plata. Montevideo has become a year-round business destination and has multiplied its hotel offering, with the presence of large international chains and establishments especially geared towards this sector of travelers. In addition to the various river and land accesses on Uruguay's borders, Montevideo has a modern airport, considered among the most beautiful and functional in the world, and excellent tourist terminals in the capital's port and in Colonia. Montevideo also has a tourist bus service that runs through the main points of interest.
Punta del Este, the most famous and exclusive cosmopolitan city in South America
The South Atlantic coast offers exceptional opportunities for sun tourism. The main attraction is the century-old resort of Punta del Este, which shines with its own light, and its belt of ocean beaches, which stretch from Solanas to the José Ignacio peninsula. Punta del Este has always been internationally recognized as one of the main resorts in America and the most exclusive in the region.
Luxurious summer residences, high-rise apartment buildings facing the sea, huge yachts in the harbour, luxury hotels and restaurants make it the most glamorous resort in America. Not in vain, it was chosen as a summer destination by great celebrities such as designer Ralph Lauren, football player Zinedine Zidane, Metallica singer James Hetfield and Colombian singer Shakira.
With its belt of ocean beaches, which stretch from Solanas to the José Ignacio peninsula, Punta del Este is unquestionably a seaside resort that shines with its own, inextinguishable light. Touring the city, visitors find a wide range of recreational activities, including exhibition halls, restaurants, pubs, discos, antique shops, art galleries, cinemas, theatres and a lively nightlife. The seaside resort city is chosen for the holding of large luxury parties, fashion shows of prestigious brands and a wide range of large-scale cultural events such as the International Jazz Festival, the International Film Festival or exhibitions of renowned contemporary artists.
Punta del Este is also a unique natural destination. With more than 20 kilometres of coastline and high mountains overlooking the sea, the resort also offers charming corners and landscapes for those who come in search of absolute tranquillity. The meeting point of its two most famous beaches, Playa Mansa and Playa Brava, represents the end of the Río de la Plata and the beginning of the Atlantic Ocean. The resort grew towards the West, forming Punta Ballena, and towards the East, creating La Barra and José Ignacio. Today, the resort has the recently inaugurated Punta del Este Convention Centre, with a capacity of more than 4000 people, making it the perfect space for seminars, conferences and events related to meeting tourism. Punta del Este is synonymous with an endless number of alternatives to satisfy the needs of the most demanding and heterogeneous tourist palates.
SOURCE: lacapital.com.ar
