Life in Montevideo

Historical Hotel to open in downtown Montvideo with style and opulence

2013-09-18T14:16:00.002-07:00

Pestana Montevideo Hotel

The Pestana Group entered into an agreement with the Jockey Club building owners, to make it a 5 star hotel that would feature 100 rooms. Rooms for social and corporate events, indoor pool, spa, restaurants and fitness center.

Photo courtesy of Karin Porley von Bergen.

The Pestana Group, an expert in restoration of old buildings must retain the original style of the place and period décor, both in the furniture and uniforms of the staff.

The refurbishment of the hotel will begin in December 2013.

www.lifeinmontevideo,blogspot.com
Copyright (C) 2013 all rights reserved

"The Lobizón" a classic of Montevideo

2013-05-03T08:26:00.001-07:00

"The Lobizón" largely reflecting a Uruguayan culture, with 30 years of experience has been the place Elected by national and international artists such as Joaquin Sabina and Jorge Drexler to enjoy sharing a moment in the Uruguayan atmosphere.

The menu offers a varied menu and an excellent proposal of cava wines labeled Uuruguaya. The traditional dish is the Gramajo, composed potatoes, parsley, garlic, onion, ham and egg.Inside the room, the colors, the textures and the atmosphere among old radios, bottles and phone, give us a sense of experiences from different eras, creating a space of pleasure and harmony.

www.lifeinmontevideo,blogspot.com
Copyright (C) 2013 all rights reserved

Casino Park Hotel in the city center of Montevideo

2012-12-07T09:22:00.000-08:00

The grand Casino Park Hotel with Park Rodo and Ramirez Beach at its doorstep

Photo Fariba Golesorkhi for Life in Montevideo

in the vicinity of the city center of Montevideo.

Fariba Golesorkhi

www.lifeinmontevideo,blogspot.com
Copyright (C) 2012 all rights reserved

Cafe Brasilero - Beautiful colonical architecture.

2012-11-12T08:58:00.003-08:00

A charming cafe with atmosphere and beautiful colonial architecture.

Get a great cup of expresso, cortado or other varieties. of coffee in this cozy environment You can also enjoy cakes, warm or cold lunch.

The cafe is tastefully decorated with a old photos of artists and politicians that have frequently visited this place. Uruguayan famous writer Enrique Galeano goes there very often in the mornings.

Address: Cafe Brasilero, Ituzaingó 1447 (e/ 25 de Mayo y Rincón), Montevideo, 11000, Uruguay. Café. Get directions. +598 2917 2035.

Picture of Cafe Brailero

The cafe is usually very busy at lunch time.

Fariba Golesorkhi

www.lifeinmontevideo.blogspot.com

Uruguayan beef

2011-04-26T14:06:00.000-07:00

Uruguayan beef is being exported at US $4000.00/ton, a record high. As a comparison, US beef is being exported at US $3500.00, with exports from Australia and New Zealand going for slightly less. This must be due to the high quality of Uruguayan beef, in conjunction with the advantage of being pasture-fed with no hormones.

Nissan produced in Uruguay

2011-02-28T07:09:00.000-08:00

Nissan announced that it will build an assembly plant in San José that will produce high-end cars destined primarily for export to Argentina and Brazil.

US embassy sponsors a number of concerts

2011-02-25T04:43:00.000-08:00

A series of free concerts will be sponsored by the US Embassy in Montevideo next week. Listed below are the times and locations:

Monday February 28 8:30 pm at Auditorio Nelly Goitiño, SODRE

Concierto Homenaje a Las Américas: Obras de compositores de Las Américas

Tuesday March 1 8:30 pm at Sala de Eventos y Conferencias del Teatro Solís

Concierto de Música de Cámara: M. Ravel, R. Shumann, J. Haydn

Wednesday March 1 8:30 pm at Auditorio Nelly Goitiño, SODRE

Concierto del Trío Gutenberg-Mainz (Alemania): Tributo a J. S. Bach

Thursday March 3 8:30 pm at Auditorio Nelly Goitiño

Concierto Las melodías de la Cosecha

Friday March 4 10:00 am at Sala de Eventos y Conferencias, Teatro Solís

Muestra de los alumnos de piano

Friday March 4 8:30 pm at Auditorio Nelly Goitiño, SODRE

Concierto de Clausura - Homenaje a L. V. Beethoven

Spectacular performance by Montevideo Philharmonic Orchestra

2011-02-13T07:56:00.000-08:00

The performance by Montevideo Philharmonic Orchestra in Parque Rodo on February 12th was magnificent. Not surprisingly a big crowd showed up and the atmosphere was just fantastic. The lake, lightning and the fresh breeze made it a romantic experience.

ADOLFOCAFE

2011-02-05T13:15:00.000-08:00

This stylish cafe situated in Punta Carretas neighborhood, Williman 597, opened it's doors 3 months ago. Here you can enjoy illy cafe, various types of homemade cakes, deserts and snacks in a comfortable and cozy atmosphere making you feel at home.

Some words from my heart

2011-01-29T16:06:00.000-08:00

I WISH THE LOCALS COULD SEE THE CHARM AND BEAUTY THAT I SEE IN MONTEVIDEO CITY CENTER?

When I was a little girl, my wish was to have all the chocolate shops in the world. Today, my wish is to have all the magnificent old buildings in the city center of Montevideo. To me, they look like a beautiful but lonely and suffering princess in desperate need of a magical love.

Here is my story: It's probably destiny which brings me here from the other side of the globe. I am a citizen of the world and living in different countries in North, South and Eastern Europe as well as middle East has given me the perspective to appreciate the city center of Montevideo for all it offers. This area has more than its fair share of natural and architectural beauty. The trees, beautiful squares and magnificent buildings as well as being just minutes away from the river side make it a unique center. The unbelievable low prices compared to any other Capital city in the world also adds to its attraction.. Yet, in spite of all these, I have never seen such an unloved and unappreciated city center!

I arrived in Montevideo in June 2008, the face of the city to the new comers arriving by boat is the old city and the city center. As I arrived on a Saturday afternoon, my first impression of the place was a sleepy and deserted Capital city left to the homeless. Nevertheless from the very first moments I sensed it's charm and it's friendly atmosphere. My love for Montevideo has been growing as I am learning about the history of the city and discover the Uruguayan colourful culture. I feel privileged to live in one of the most beautiful apartments in the world in a historical building, overlooking one of the most beautiful squares in the heart of the city. Not to mention the mild climate, plentifulness of water and food. I am extremely happy to see the changes and improvements made by municipality, business community and individuals in the past two years and hope this will continue until the center regains its original glory, pride and beauty. However, I'm sure this will take more than just physical maintenance! The soul of the center needs to be nourished with the love and respect of the inhabitants. I have hope that the young generation of Uruguay will be trend setters for new urbanism and will contribute with their creative energy to revive their city center.

Fariba Golesorkhi

Cafe Martinez in Montevideo

2011-01-18T09:00:00.000-08:00

Cafe Martinez was first opened in Argentine in the beginning of 20th century, the couple who started this cafe were Spanish immigrants. The franchise now exist in Spain, Chili and recently in Uruguay. Cafe Martinez is situated at Ellauri 499 just a few blocks away from Punta Carretas Shopping in Montevideo. This cozy location also offers an out door area where you can enjoy excellent coffee, delicious cakes/sandwiches, good service and a relaxing atmosphere.

Cafe

2010-11-14T08:20:00.000-08:00

Different locations are being restored in the city center and new shops and cafes are openning. Panteca opened recently on the corner of Colonia & Convencion. It is a nice cafe, offering delicious sandwiches, pastries and soft drinks. This modern cafe adds diversity to the area besides the traditional cafes and seems to be a popular place for lunch and afternoon tea/coffee.

The Big Mac Indicator - Global price level comparison

2010-10-22T11:47:00.000-07:00

According to Elliott Wave Technician: Global comparison of the price level in different regions / countries of the world using the Big Mac burger from McDonald's. This indicator gives you an idea of the general price level in a country, and shows if a currency is "over valued" or "under valued" based on the Big Mac burger.

Source: The Economist

Notice that the burger costs more in Europe than the US, Switzerland is very expensive, the price in Buenos Aires,Argentine is a little more than USD 2.5 and in Montevideo,Uruguay about USD 4.

Best Regards,
EWT Team

blog.elliottwavetechnician.com/
Copyright (C) 2010 all rights reserved

Plaza Matriz

2010-10-02T11:09:00.000-07:00

Plaza Matriz has been beautifully restores in its original 1930's style. New benches and disposal bins are placed and beautiful flowers are planted. The second hand market and artists playing musical instruments contribute to make a nostalgic atmosphere.

Buenos Aires is said to be the Paris of South America, Montevideo with its beautiful buildings, green space and artistic atmosphere must be the Vienna of South America..

Exposición de Arte "Filosofía y Poesía"

2010-08-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

American artist Ross Keegan exhibits his paintings in Cafe Bonafide Yi 1371, near Plaza Gagancha in the city center of Montevideo from August 17th 2010 to September 7th 2010.

The latest about Hotel Pestana Montevideo

2010-06-01T11:05:00.000-07:00

Uruguay will be the 4^th South American Country in which the hotel group will be present; Pestana announces a new hotel in Montevideo.

The future Pestana Montevideo Hotel results from the reconstruction and renovation of a building from the beginning of the 20^th century which housed one of the most famous and aristocratic clubs of Uruguay – the Jockey Club. The building is considered emblematic of the city and has been classified as a Historic National Monument since 1975. Its Art Deco architecture is evident from its façade as well as its numerous decorative stained glass windows, marble, wood panelled walls, and large bronze doors.

The building is located on the most important street of the city- Avenue 18th de Julio - and only a few meters from the “Old City”, the historic district which houses the Presidency of the Republic, theatres, art centres and a commercial zone.

Brazilian architect, Jaime Morais, will be in charge of the interior and exterior. He is responsible for various other projects of Grupo Pestana in Portugal, Brazil, Argentina, and Venezuela. Morais was also responsible for the extraordinary decoration of the recently inaugurated Pousada do Porto. The reconstruction work will begin in March 2010 with hopes to end in the first quarter of 2012.

The Pestana Montevideo Hotel with be a luxurious 5 star hotel with 100 rooms, a spa, an indoor pool, and many meeting and event rooms. It will have two restaurants, one of which will be located on the top floor with an excellent view of Montevideo. This property will be especially desirable for the corporate and event worlds, but it will also be an excellent option for those who travel for leisure in Montevideo. Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and Spain will be the principal markets for the property.

The Uruguayan locale has been studied by Grupo Pestana for years. For Dionisio Pestana, President of the Group, “the entrance into a new country in South America is part of our growth strategy for the continent. It’s very important that we are present in the major cities of South America and are promoting cross-selling among the different properties and countries. This building is exactly what we were looking for.”

A touch of Middle East

2010-04-21T07:05:00.000-07:00

In the heart of the city center across the road from Teatro Metro there is an Armenian snack bar where you can enjoy shawarma, flafel and Turkish coffee in a friendly atmosphere. The food is delicious and the coffee is excellent.

Ted in Uruguay

2010-03-29T06:46:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday May 4th, some Uruguayan professionals will be speaking in the Sala Zavala Munitz while hundreds more will follow the internet conferences. The speakers are currently being prepared for their presentation by assistance of an acting director. Ted was born about 20 years ago and has been gaining more and more popularity over the recent years.

Sarandi will soon be "Rue Paradi" of Montevideo

2010-03-27T12:16:00.000-07:00

I have known this beautiful city only for the past two years and the pedestrian street of Sarandi has never looked better to me than today, As if it is aware and proud of all the positive changes happening after years of being forgotten. The slow process of maintaining many old buildings is finally showing result and new shops are opening. In addition, new paving is in progress and Plaza Matriz under maintenance. In the lovely sun shine of today, the sound of the harp played by a musician, the colorful handcrafts of the artisans, the shops and the open air cafes were all contributing to the liveliness of this pedestrian as well as welcoming the tourists. The cleanliness of the pedestrian was also surprisingly impressive. This has to be only a beginning......the old city (ciudad vieja) and dow town (centro) should and will gain their original glory as they are the window of this country to the outside world.

Modern shopping mall in the center

2010-03-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

The former cinema Trecadero (18 de julio and yaguaron) which is currently accommodating the The Universal Church of Kingdom of God has been purchased by a Uruguayan business man. This building is going to be transfered into a modern shopping mall, the first of its kind in the center. As per today, all the galleries and shops on the 18 de julio close around 2.00pm on Saturdays, leaving the center empty and dull. The new shopping mall will attract people at weekends and keep the center lively and lovely.

Business is booming in the city center

2010-03-25T12:50:00.000-07:00

According to the latest news announced by the spokesman of Center Group, there is not any commercial space available between Plaza Independencia and El Gaoucha any longer. This is very good news for the inhabitants of Montevideo, those familiar with the depressive look of the city center between 2002-2006 would certainly notice a big difference in both the look and the atmosphere.

The Spanish chain Zara is also interested in opening a new store in the center and they are looking for the suitable space. Other projects in development are a new hotel financed by Argentinian investors and an office building, both will be situated behind the Executive Tower.

Food in Montevideo

2010-03-16T15:30:00.000-07:00

Uruguay is not only a paradise for meat lovers, but for food lovers. The meat here is of excellent quality and the most popular way of preparing it is grill / barbecue (parrillada) or charbroiled beef (asado). The other specialty is the Uruguayan sandwich called chivito with slices of meat, lettuce, tomatoes, ham, cheese, bacon and eggs.

There is also a variety of local fish which you can either enjoy in fish restaurants or buy fresh in specific open markets and prepare yourself.

A wide range of fruit and vegetables can be purchased directly from the farmers in open markets on specific days of the week. In addition there is an association of organic farmers, they offer their products both in an open market and a shop in the city center.

Plaza

2010-03-16T11:36:00.000-07:00

Montevideo has many beautiful square with green space and
benches to sit on and watch life passing by. The so called plazas
are also the meeting place for young and old as well as the dog
owners.

Yearly Carnival

2010-03-15T19:23:00.000-07:00

The yearly carnival of Montevideo takes place in the middle of
February. This is a colorful event in which the native Criollo
and Afro-Uruguayan culture and music is a clearly notable.

Historical Club in Montevideo, Uruguay will be restored and converted into a luxury hotel

2010-03-11T10:56:00.000-08:00

The positive trend in down town montevideo, Uruguay with restoration of key properties continue. The new president José Mujica said his government respect investment and reiterated his idea of promoting the country as "a good place to live."

The Jockey Club with its splendor architecture will be the greatest hotel in Montevideo.
Portuguese group Pestana Hotels & Resorts, has leased the building of the Jockey Club in Montevideo for the next 38 years. This group specializes in rescuing historic buildings and converting them to five-star hotels. The refurbishment will last two years and shall respect the historical architecture of the building, which used to be one of the most luxurious and representative of Montevideo in the '30s and '40s. Built in 1932, the building was declared a National Historic Monument in 1975 and has been closed since the late '90s due to the bankruptcy of the Jockey Club.

The total investment is estimated to be $ 15 million.Once completed the hotel will have 100 rooms and will offer 130 jobs. The hotel will be called Pestana Montevideo.

The group representative, Luis Araujo Pestana, expressed his confidence in the political stability as well as the social and economical developments in Uruguay. However, he emphasized that the building itself is a reason more than valid, for their investment in this country.

Source http://www.spectador.com/