Uruguay flag vs map

Uruguay Shopping, Culinary, and Accommodation

South America

Shopping

Overview

Leather goods, suede jackets, woolen goods, amethyst jewellery, shoes, purses, antiques and paintings are some of the most popular souvenirs. The best shopping is in Montevideo, Punta del Este and Colonia del Sacramento. In the old town of Montevideo, a pedestrian zone with small boutiques and cozy cafés invites you to go shopping. All major cities in the country have modern shopping centers where products from internationally renowned brand manufacturers are often available. On Sunday mornings in Montevideo, the Feria de Tristán Narvaja takes place on Avenida Tristán Narvaja. This traditional flea market stretches across several streets and is known for the antiques on offer, books and many other items. The flea market on the Plaza Constitucion in the old town of Montevideo, which takes place every Saturday, is similarly varied and worthwhile. In the old town you will also find numerous antique shops. Farmers’ markets are held several times a week in all larger towns, where you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables and other regional specialties. The prices are usually cheaper than in the supermarket and the quality of the food is excellent. Uruguayan handicrafts can be found around the capital’s port area, as well as at the Ferias Artesanales (handicraft fairs) in Punta del Este and Colonia del Sacramento. The Manos de Uruguay cooperative sells in its stores in Montevideo.

  • Usprivateschoolsfinder: Offers description downloadable image of national flag for the country of Uruguay. Also includes prehistory and history of this nation.

Opening hours

Mon-Fri 09.00-12.00 and 14.00-19.00; Sat 09.00-12.30. Large shopping centers open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.

Culinary

Overview

All kinds of beef are served in the parrilladas (barbecue restaurants) that can be found everywhere. Uruguayan cuisine has many influences from Europe, Italian dishes such as pizza and pasta are often on the menu, and Spanish dishes are also common. Fish restaurants are mainly found along the Atlantic coast. Meat, seafood and fish are of excellent quality. Table service is common in the restaurants. In the cafés and bars, service is provided both at the counter and at the table. The main meal of the day usually takes place in the evening. For dessert, desserts are often prepared with dulce de leche (caramel made from boiled milk with vanilla extract).

Regional specialities

Asado (char grilled beef). Asado de Tira (ribs). Pulp (boneless beef). Lomo (fillet steak). Bife de chorrizo (rump steak). Costillas (schnitzel) or milanesa (veal cutlet) with French fries or a mixed salad as a side dish. Chivito (sandwich with meat, salad and egg). Morcilla dulce (sweet black pudding with orange peel and walnuts) and Morcilla salada (salty sausage). Chajá (cake with cream and jam).

Tip

10% is usual if a service fee is not already included in the bill. Taxi drivers also expect a tip.

Regional drinks

The quality of the local wine varies (medio-medio, red and white wine). The beer is very good. Imported spirits are widely available. Local spirits such as caña, grappa, gin and whiskey are excellent. Other popular drinks include Clericó (wine mixed with fruit juice) and Medio y medio (dry white wine with sparkling wine). Locals like to drink yerba mate, a bitter tea that was also drunk by Native Americans.

Minimum age for consumption of alcoholic beverages

In Uruguay you can drink alcohol from the age of 18.

Accommodation

Hotels

There are top hotels in Montevideo and resorts. Advance booking recommended in summer and during Carnival (Montevideo). The capital also offers numerous inexpensive hotels. Details from the Hotel and Restaurant Association: Asociación de Hoteles y Restaurantes. Categories: Hotels can be divided into three groups based on price and standard. Prices are higher during the holiday season, with many beach hotels offering full board only. A VAT (23%) is charged in Montevideo.

Camping

Tent sites available nationwide. You can only camp on other properties with a police permit.

Other accommodation options

There are several inexpensive youth hostels (More information: www.hosteluruguay.org).

Culture

Religion

Roman Catholic (47.1%), along with other Christians (11.1%), Jews (0.3%), other (1.1%) and non-denominational (17.2%).

Social Rules of Conduct

Manners: When greeting someone shakes hands. A conversation usually begins with asking how the other person is feeling. The forms of politeness customary in Western Europe also apply here, good behavior is very important. One should always show respect towards older people in particular. Uruguayans are very hospitable, invitations to private homes or restaurants are often extended. Flowers, for example, are suitable as gifts. If you are invited to eat, you should try the food that is offered to you. In the case of a private invitation in the evening, it is okay to arrive approx. 30 minutes after the agreed time, otherwise foreign visitors are usually expected to appear on time. If in doubt, you should ask in advance (¿En punto?). Clothing: In Uruguay, people attach great importance to external appearances. Smart casual attire is appropriate in most cases, but more formal attire is expected for formal occasions. For business appointments, a suit with a tie and jacket is appropriate for men and a suit or pantsuit for women. Proper attire is expected when entering churches, arms and legs should be covered. Swimwear belongs on the beach. Photographing: People should be asked before being photographed. For your own safety, you should be careful not to continuously present an expensive camera to everyone. Smoking: Cinemas, theaters and public transport are non-smoking areas. Taxi:

Climate

Best travel time

Summers (December – March) are pleasant and winters are mild. The remaining seasons offer sunny days and cool nights.

Country data

Phone prefix

+598

Area (sq km)

176215

Population

3,473,730 (Source: homosociety)

Population density (per square km)

19

Population statistics year

2020

Main emergency number

911

Uruguay flag vs map