Uruguay🇺🇾
Uruguay is a South American country known for its verdant interior and beach-lined coast. It's bordered by Brazil to the north and Argentina to the west. Despite its small size, Uruguay boasts one of the highest standards of living in Latin America. Brimming with a rich culture, heritage, and traditions, the country is known for its passion for soccer, amazing steak, and tango. Famous for its tranquil scenic beauty and attractions like Montevideo's 18th-century Ciudad Vieja (Old City) and the picturesque Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay offers a slower pace of life amidst pure elegance and old-world charm. Visitors often top their trip with strolling around the unmissable Punta del Este, partying at the vibrant Pocitos, and exploring the stunning Santa Teresa National Park.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid carrying all your money and important documents in one place. It makes you a potential target for theft.
- Avoid drinking tap water from rural places. Stick to bottled water as quality can vary.
- Avoid disrespectful behavior toward religious or cultural traditions.
- Avoid leaving your belongings unattended in public places.
- Avoid getting involved in illicit activities. The Uruguayan law is strict about it.
- Avoid wandering at late night in Montevideo, particularly in the Ciudad Vieja as the crime incidents increase after dark.
- Avoid traveling without proper travel insurance. It might prove crucial in the event of an unforeseen medical emergency.
- Avoid discussing controversial topics like politics as Uruguayans are highly political and such discussions could get heated.
- Avoid traveling to the northern regions during heavy rainfall as it may lead to flooding.
- Avoid public displays of affection, especially if you're part of the LGBTQ+ community, despite the country's progressive policies.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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While Uruguay maintains a relatively low crime rate, there's an increase in certain crime forms such as theft, pick-pocketing, and robberies, particularly in Montevideo. Ciudad Vieja and Avenida 18 de Julio recorded higher crime incidents late at night. Yet, Uruguay’s crime rate is lower compared to its neighboring countries, and the government has initiated several plans to counter the issue.
Terrorism 💣
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Terrorism has little to no prevalence in Uruguay. Over the years, the country did not witness any significant terrorist attacks. The country's counter-terrorism strategy, coupled with low corruption makes Uruguay a comparably safer place.
War ⚔️
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Uruguay enjoys a stable political system with no history of wars or civil unrest in recent times. Good relationships with neighboring countries further ensure peace and stability.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Natural disasters in Uruguay are rare and generally limited to minor earthquakes and occasional floods. The last significant flood happened in 2015 affecting the northern region while the last felt earthquake occurred in 2011.
Medical Care 🏥
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Uruguay has an efficient healthcare system with good standards of medical care in major cities. In rural areas, healthcare facilities might be limited. They have a well-structured vaccination program and competent healthcare professionals.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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In most urban and semi-urban areas, tap water is safe to drink directly. However, in rural areas, it is advised to drink bottled water.
Disease Burden 🤒
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Uruguay has a low burden of disease, but the major public health concerns are non-communicable diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
Corruption 💸
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Uruguay has relatively low levels of corruption compared to the regional average. They have stringent anti-corruption laws and transparency in government operations.
Safety for Women ♀️
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Female travelers generally feel safe in Uruguay. Instances of attacks on females are relatively low but caution should still be taken, especially during late-night hours and in remote areas.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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Uruguay is known to be very progressive in terms of LGBTQ+ rights in South America. Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity is illegal. However, visitors should always be cautious about public displays of affection.
Censorship 📺
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Uruguay enjoys freedom of speech and of the press. The government generally respects these rights, leading to the existence of a free, vibrant, and diverse media environment.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Public transportation in Uruguay is relatively safe and reliable. Buses are the most prevalent mode of public transport in the cities whereas taxis are commonly used for shorter distances. There were minor accidents in the past, but those are rare.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Uruguay is generally a safe country to visit. Crime rates are relatively low compared to other Latin American countries and major cities are safe for tourists. It's crucial to remain vigilant, avoid known danger spots and take regular precautions against theft and pickpocketing.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Several embassies are located in Uruguay's capital, Montevideo, including the U.S. Embassy, British Embassy, Canadian Embassy, Australian Embassy among others.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Before traveling to Uruguay, routine vaccines like Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Rabies, Meningitis, Polio, Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR), Tdap are recommended.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Dangerous animals in Uruguay include snakes and spiders, though encounters with these are rare. There are no dangerous aquatic animals along Uruguay's coast.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Most visitors to Uruguay do not require a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Ensure to check your country's specific requirements prior to your visit.
💲 Currency
The currency used in Uruguay is the Uruguayan Peso (UYU). Money can be exchanged in banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants and stores in the urban areas of Uruguay.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Yes, it's possible to work and travel in Uruguay. The country offers several opportunities for travelers, especially in sectors like teaching English, hospitality, and tourism.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Uruguay is a bit more expensive than other South American countries. Accommodation, food, and transportation are reasonably priced, but luxury services can be pricier.