Founded in 1726, Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, it is the largest city with a population of about 1.5 million people. Ciudad Vieja, the old city, is located where we are docked, with narrow streets, large plazas and elegant colonial architecture. So to back up a bit, Uruguay, is placed in a tiny buffer between Argentina and Brazil. It is one of the smallest countries of South America, geographically, slightly larger than England and Wales combined with a total population of just over 3 million people. The coastline boasts impressive beaches, while in the north there are rolling hills and grasslands, similar to the Argentina pampas and southern Brazil. Most of the people are descendants from Spain and Italy, giving this city a very “European” feel.
This is our third visit here so it was easy stroll day as we wondered the familiar pedestrian friendly streets stopping at the many piazzas taking in the Saturday local markets. We did stop into the art store that we purchased a piece of art from last year looking for a second piece in the series. It looks like the series is sold out with only one piece left similar to the one we brought home last year. Montevideo is a very nice city and worth a good visit as it has plenty to offer. Clocked into close to 15,000 steps once again before returning to the ship for a late lunch. Tonight is the celebration of Chinese New Year in the Lido Market Place, nicely done with the suckling pig and hanging ducks with everything else being offered on the menu. Right at the chime of 5:30 pm the line ups formed to enjoy this Chinese feast - Gung Hei Fat Choi, to all. Fun Fact: In the pictures you will see many old fishing boats in the harbour that have seen a better day, they are slowly decaying and about to sink. These boats were caught illegally fishing in the Uruguay waters and where levied a large fine for doing so. The owners of these boats didn’t think the fine was worth the cost of the old boats, so they did not pay them and left the boats abandoned. Over there next few years the Uruguay government is set to get rid of the boats as they becoming an environmental hazard. A few pics of our day, hope you enjoy…
Quote of the day - “Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth” - George Washington
Do you have Tai Chi class this time ? I remember this restaurant where we had lunch with the musicians.
ReplyDeleteRegards M&S