Uruguay Insider

Uruguay Airports, Uruguay and the OECD, and more....

2011-12-14T12:28:00.000-08:00

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Life in Uruguay
Montevideo Airport - One of the 10 most loved airports in the world. (with video)
Punta del Este Airport - more than just a place of passage.
Both the Montevideo Airport and the Punta del Este Airport are architectural blends of beauty and function.

Uruguay Real Estate and Relocation
Uruguay - Complying with OECD requirements: a moving target?
Attorney Mark Teuten provides his perspective on Uruguay's relationship with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

Uruguay Notes
Check out the Meetings and Events page to meet other English speaking expats in Uruguay.

“Like” our Facebook page – for additional updates and articles about Uruguay.

Thanksgiving in Uruguay, More people coming to Uruguay, and more...

2011-11-29T06:06:00.001-08:00

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Life in Uruguay
Thanksgiving in Uruguay
Thanksgiving is a North American tradition expats living in Uruguay don't leave behind.

La Posta de Vaimaca - Slow food in a slow town (with video)
Authentic rural dining in the very small Urguayan town of Puebo Eden

Uruguay Real Estate and Relocation
Who is coming to Uruguay and why?
Over the last couple of years, the number of people coming to Uruguay has gone up several hundred percent. The people coming are both returning Uruguayans who have been working abroad, and new foreign immigrants. Why are Uruguayans returning to Uruguay and where are they returning from? And why are foreigners seeking residency in this small South American country? Find out here.

Uruguay Notes
Check out our Expat Meetings and Events page to learn about scheduled English speaking events in Uruguay.

“Like” our Facebook page – for additional videos, updates, and comments about Uruguay

Eating out in Montevideo, Golfing in Uruguay, Uruguay real estate, and more....

2011-10-10T17:31:00.000-07:00

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Life in Uruguay
Eating out in Montevideo
Karin Ledl reports on some of her favorite places to dine in Montevideo. In addition to traditional Uruguayan barbecue restaurants, Karin reports on Montevideo's international cuisine, Italian food, and recommends where to go for sushi, Asian cuisine, fusion cuisine, Mexican food, Indian food, Armenian food, and German food. Yummm!

Playing Golf in Uruguay
Nicolas Teuten, the 16-year-old who won the 2011 Club de Golf del Uruguay championship, provides an overview of golf in Uruguay as well as tips for playing eight Uruguay golf courses.

Uruguay Real Estate
For Sale: 22 hectares (54 acres) in the Department of Rocha, 1.5 hours from Punta del Este
This beautiful property with hills and valleys is located just 8 kilometers from the town of Rocha. The land is perfect for an agricultural business or developing a self-sufficient lifestyle. The land is subdivided into two parcels (a natural for two parties who want to be close together). The land is fenced, has power, two natural springs, an old farmhouse, a newer wood cabin, a small greenhouse, and a small orchard to help get you started. 172,000 US dollars

For Rent: BRAND NEW never-lived-in 3-bedroom apartments in upscale area of Montevideo's Punta Carretas  Everyone has been talking about this new building going up - the one with the curved balconies clad in polished black granite. Well, its all done and ready for you to move in! Located just two blocks from the rambla and close to the city's best restaurants, shopping, and parks. Both furnished and unfurnished apartments are available. All units have underground parking. Prices range from 1,300 to 1,700 US dollars per month, plus building expenses of 6,000 pesos per month.

For Rent: FRONT ROW water-view 2-bedroom apartments in Montevideo's Puntas Carretas
Each apartment covers an entire floor with its own private entry hall and full length balcony overlooking the Rio de la Plat. Each bedroom is en suite with its own bathroom. Twenty-four-hour porter security and underground parking. This well managed building is popular with international tenants.
Unfurnished: 1,300 US dollars per month, plus 11,000 pesos per month building expenses.
Furnished with patio and barbecue: 1,500, plus 11,00 pesos per month building expenses.

For these and other Urguay properties

Uruguay Notes
The American Association will be hosting a "Merienda Mate Mixer" Wednesday Oct. 19 from 6 pm to 7:30,  Casa ACU, Calle Colonia 2073, Montevideo. Coffee, tea, mate, and snacks will be provided, as well as a demonstration (in English) on how to prepare mate. The American Association (formerly the American Women's Association, which now welcomes men and women alike) has been actively fundraising for charitable causes in Uruguay. One needn't be a citizen of N.America to participate--all are welcome. So come and meet some new people and see what it is all about!  For more information contact Rosalinda Walker.

GreenPages Punta is organizing an event they are calling Klick Klack (knitting workshop) Schnick Schnack (gift bag making) Charla y Kuchen (a greenpagespunta.com get together). You are welcome to join them at  Das Brot, a bakery and coffee shop in La Barra (Galeria de Paseo Ruta 10, Km 159 tel: 4277-0666) every Saturday morning from 10 - noon during October and November for knitting, gift bag making, and socializing. The knitting and bags will be sold at auction to help support wetlands of Maldonado and San Carlos. These craft making meetings are part of a larger wetlands project that includes tours and youth activities. To learn more contact Sara.

Check out our Expat Meetings and Events page to learn about the many other regularly scheduled English speaking events occurring in Uruguay. They are a great way to trade notes on life in Uruguay and meet new people.

“Like” our Facebook page – for additional videos, updates, and comments about Uruguay

Uruguay's annual "oldies" music dance party, Why live in Punta del Este, and more...

2011-08-18T09:23:00.000-07:00

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Life in Uruguay
Noche de la Nostalgia - Uruguay's night of nostalgia
August 24th is coming, the night the country of Uruguay goes out to dance to the "oldies". (updated)

Uruguay Real Estate, Business, and Relocation
Punta del Este, Uruguay - Five reasons why its not just for vacation anymore
Punta del Este is South America's most popular summer beach resort, which is also attracting part-time and full-time residents from all over the world. Why are people choosing to live in Punta del Este? Find out here.

Uruguay Notes
Noche de la Nostalgia parties 2011
With literally hundreds of Noche de la Nostalgia parties being promoted for this Wednesday August 24th, Karin Ledl helps narrow the field by sharing her top picks for Noche de la Nostagia 2011- in both Montevideo and Punta del Este.

Expat meetings and events
Meet other English speakers in Uruguay - trade notes - make new friends.

Special section
Most popular posts:
What posts are other Uruguay Insider subscriber's finding most interesting? Below we share a list of Paradise Uruguay Blog's most-read posts by category:

Most popular Travel destination post:
Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay

Most popular Uruguay Real Estate post:
Where to buy real estate in Montevideo, Uruguay

Most popular Uruguay Culture post:
A night out in Montevideo, by Karin Ledl

Most popular Uruguay Story post:
Life in Uruguay - the unbearable slowness of being

Most popular Uruguay background post:
Uruguay's national anthem, the best (and longest) in the world

“Like” our Facebook page – for additional videos, updates, and comments about Uruguay

Uruguay celebrates Copa America win, wine tasting in Montevideo, Learning Spanish, and more...

2011-07-31T18:34:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
Uruguay celebrates Copa America victory!
After Uruguay's national football (soccer) team won the Copa America in Buenos Aires, Uruguayans in Montevideo took to the streets to celebrate.

Wine tasting at Cava Privada in Montevideo
Karin's Uruguay: Karin Ledl, reports on an evening of wine tasting.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
Learning Spanish - find out which home study course is best for you
Why take a Spanish home study course? How do you get the most out of a home Spanish course? Which course is best for your learning style and objectives? The answers are here.

Uruguay properties
For Rent: Furnished water-view Montevideo apartment (1 to 2 year lease)
Newer building, clean, great neighborhood, and well managed with front line water view!
This 2-bedroom 3-bathroom apartment is on the Rambla overlooking the water in Punta Carretas. It is tastefully furnished and ready to move in. It even has a large patio with barbecue and patio furniture.

Vacation rental: Punta del Este Apartment
Take advantage of low off-season rates in this furnished and fully equipped apartment on the Punta del Este Peninsula.

Uruguay Notes
Expat Meetings and Events
Meet other English speakers in Uruguay, trade notes, make new friends.

“Like” our Facebook page – for additional videos, updates, and comments about Uruguay

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A night out in Montevideo, Punta del Este real estate prices, and more...

2011-07-12T09:13:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
A night out in Montevideo
Where is the best place to go out at night in Montevideo? Contributing writer, Karin Ledl, reports on Montevideo's nightlife.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
Punta del Este real estate prices up 80%
The results of a 3.5 year study of Punta del Este real estate prices are revealed.

Investing in Paraguay farmland
As farmland values in Uruguay and the region climb, a growing number of international farm operators and investors are buying agricultural land in Paraguay's Chaco region.

Uruguay properties
New section: Uruguay properties for sale and for rent.

Uruguay Notes
The people attending Uruguay's various Expat Meetings and Events includes travelers and expats from all over the world. These gatherings are a great opportunity to meet other English speakers, trade notes, and make new friends.

“Like” our Facebook page – for additional videos, updates, and comments about Uruguay

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Piriapolis, Uruguay

2011-06-14T07:31:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
Travel to Piriapolis, Uruguay
Piriapolis is a Mediterranean-like coastal resort with a waterfront downtown surrounded by green hills. It provides a relaxing natural setting with interesting sites, good food, and festive annual events.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
Real estate in Piriapolis, Uruguay
What does Piriapolis real estate have to offer? What types of properties are available? How much do homes cost? Who is buying property in Piriapolis? What do expats like best about Piriapolis?

Uruguay Notes
Spanish learning resources:
Learn Spanish at home - Free demo lessons and discounts
Learn Spanish in Montevideo
Learn Spanish in Punta del Este: teacherjudith@gmail.com or 096-232-366

There are lots of English speaker and expat meetings to choose from this week:
• Thursday June 16th - Atlántida English Speakers
• Friday June 17th - Piriapolis Lunch Group
• Sunday June 19th - Montevideo Sunday Expat Meeting
• Monday June 20th - Punta Expats
See the Meetings and Events page for more information

A great new place for lunch in Punta del Este
The restaurant and bar at the Cantegril Country Club is under new ownership with a new policy of allowing non-members to come in to eat and drink. I am pleased to report that the new menu provides an exciting variety. In addition to Uruguayan classics and pizza, the menu includes Mexican favorites, chicken wings, hamburgers, and BBQ ribs.

The menu prices are very reasonable, and besides that, there are weekday lunch specials for 150 pesos with dishes like shepheard’s pie, lasagna, steak and fries, and pasta. On weekends they normally have a roast chicken or tri-tip (colita cuadril) with roast potatoes for 250 pesos.

Directions: From Avenue Franklin D. Roosevelt, turn on Avenue M Ligtman, which ends at the Clubhouse. The restaurant and bar are on the right side of the main hall. For more information call 099-518-663

“Like” our Facebook page – for additional videos, updates, and comments about Uruguay

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Maldonado, Uruguay... and more

2011-05-16T19:55:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
Travel to Maldonado, Uruguay
Punta del Este's next door neighbor has historic sights, annual events, and great places to eat.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
Real estate in Maldonado, Uruguay
So what about real estate in Maldonado? What types of properties are available? How much do they cost?

Uruguay Notes
English Speaking Meetings and Events
This Friday - lunch in Piriapolis
This Friday May 20th at 1:00pm the Piriapolis Lunch Group will meet at the Club on the beach in Las Flores. All English speakers are invited. Reservations are required. (This is important so there will be enough tables and food for our group.) If you would like to attend, please contact Jean Petley by May 18th to let her know you are coming and make your entree selection.

This Friday night - Party in Punta del Este

Punta-Mex is putting on a Mexican Fiesta in Punta del Este! May 20th 7pm to 11pm

All the food for this event will be made fresh and completely from scratch!

RSVP for location and directions puntamex@gmail.com or call 094-085-179

Notice: The Montevideo Language Exchange has a new location. It will now be meeting in an upstairs private lounge at "El Noble" on Avenue Brasil 2986 (at the corner of P.F Berro in Pocitos) The next meeting is on Friday May 27th. Please visit English Speaking Meetings and Events for more info

Paradise Uruguay on Facebook
Street acrobatics in Montevideo
The most recent post on the Paradise Uruguay Facebook Page is short video of Andrea Catozzi in Montevideo. Andrea Catozzi is an urban acrobat whose style grew out of the Brazilian martial art form of capoeira.

Other new and updated posts

San Gregorio de Polanco

Uruguay's National Anthem the best (and longest) in the world

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Atlántida - a jewel on Uruguay's Gold Coast

2011-04-05T14:58:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
Travel to the beach community of Atlántida
Just east of Montevideo is a 68 kilometer (42 mile) stretch of riverfront beaches known as Uruguay's Costa de Oro (Gold Coast), where there is a jewel of a summer travel destination known as Atlántida.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
What about real estate in Atlántida?
What types of properties are available? What are the prices? Who is buying and why? And, is it true that some expats are buying homes in Atlántida for year-round living?

Other new and updated posts
Carlos Ott - Uruguayan Architect
Buying an entire building in Montevideo's Ciudad Vieja
If you are a new subscriber or for some reason missed the last issue of the Uruguay Insider, you may be interested in Where to buy real estate in Montevideo, Uruguay, which was by far the most read post during the month of March.

Uruguay Notes
English Speaking Meetings and Events
>Toastmasters Club of Montevideo will have its first meeting on Tuesday, 12th of April at 6:30pm at Feligreta. (English and Spanish) Visit English Speaking Meetings and Events more information.

>The English speaking gatherings in Uruguay have been growing over the years. The Punta Expats gathering meets once a month in Punta del Este at different locations. Over 70 English speakers attended the March 21st gathering on the deck of a Punta del Este beachfront restaurant. English speakers from many different countries and from a variety of different backgrounds eat, socialize, and share their thoughts and experiences about life in Uruguay. There is also a book exchange.

Punta Expats is organized by Silvia Haas and her husband Eduardo Kouyoumdjian, whose graciousness and genuine warmth set a pleasant tone for each gathering. If you would like more information about future Punta Expat gatherings visit English Speaking Meetings and Events, where you can contact Silvia by email.

Paradise Uruguay Facebook page
On my research trip to Atlántida I was surprised to see board surfers in the water. I knew there was good fishing, and lots of windsurfing and kite surfing, but I hadn't realized there was wave surfing that far west on the Río de la Plata estuary. But apparently it is not a rare occurrence. A recent post on the Paradise Uruguay Facebook page is a one minute video of a long boarder riding a wave on Uruguay's Costa de Oro.

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The City of Paysandú, Where to buy real estate in Montevideo, Shakira performs in Punta del Este, and more...

2011-03-09T16:43:00.000-08:00

Life in Uruguay
City Profile: Paysandú, Uruguay
Uruguay's third largest city is an industrial center located on the Uruguay River. While not a foreign tourism magnet, Paysandú has a lot of entertainment and recreational opportunities for the people who live and work there.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
Where to buy real estate in Montevideo
This article introduces you to seven Montevideo neighborhoods that are popular with foreign real estate buyers.

Other new and updated posts

Shakira in Punta del Este Uruguay - March 6th concert report

The ANTEL Telecommunications Tower - The tallest building in Uruguay.

Three tips for booking your flight to Uruguay

Uruguay Notes
English Speaking Meetings and Events
Find a tennis partner, get a good book recommendation, find out about a new great place to eat, learn about local services that come recommended.... Whether you are traveling or living in Uruguay, these gatherings often provide interesting and useful interactions.

Are you organizing a gathering or special event in Uruguay that would be interesting to English speakers? Let us know

Paradise Uruguay Facebook page
The most recent post is a 3-minute slide show of Montevideo
Also, the format of the Facebook page has changed, making it easier for you to post a comment or question about Uruguay.

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Subscribe now! It's FREE and easy.

Travel to Punta del Este, Uruguay's tourism industry, and more...

2011-02-21T15:30:00.000-08:00

Life in Uruguay
Travel to Punta del Este Uruguay
The information you need to get off on the right foot in Punta del Este.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
Uruguay's tourism industry is growing
Uruguay's tourism industry has grown to become as important to Uruguay's economy as it's agricultural industry.
Coming next issue: Where to buy property in Montevideo

Uruguay Notes
English Speaking Meetings and Events
Trade notes and make friends with other English speakers in Uruguay.

GreenPagesPunta.com is one year old and is celebrating with a special lunch gathering in La Barra on Sunday 27 February to exchange holistic ideas, news, and information.

Other new and updated posts
Tacuarembó, Uruguay
An agribusiness center in Uruguay's heartland, which has an annual festival to celebrate Uruguay's gaucho heritage.

Paradise Uruguay Facebook page

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Selling matches in Montevideo, The Port of Montevideo, Montevideo Carnival

2011-02-08T09:49:00.000-08:00

Life in Uruguay
Selling Matches in Montevideo
A personal account of a gifted salesperson aboard bus #117

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
The Port of Montevideo
The large natural harbor is the reason the City of Montevideo came to exist. Today, the Port of Montevideo is the most advanced container terminal in South America.

Uruguay Notes
Uruguay English Speaker Expat Gatherings
Make friends and trade notes with other English speakers in Uruguay.

Uruguay Carnival
Last Thursday and Friday (February 3rd and 4th) was the Montevideo carnival parade known as Llamadas.

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In Search of the Uruguayan Ñandú, Uruguay Tax Law Update, and more...

2011-01-23T17:40:00.000-08:00

Life in Uruguay
In Search of the Uruguayan Ñandú - unexpected turns and first impressions in Punta del Este Uruguay
A travel log of a first time visit to Punta del Este.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
Uruguay Income Tax Law and Uruguay Banking Secrecy Law Updates
Law No 18.718 was passed by Uruguay's Parliament on December 29th. The new legislation, which makes changes to Uruguay's Income Tax Law and banking secrecy laws, has been a controversial topic within the expat community since it was proposed in May 2010. What are these changes and how will they impact Uruguayan citizens and foreign residents? Montevideo attorney, Mark Teuten, gives us the facts.

Uruguay Expat Gatherings
Attend one of Uruguay's English speaker gatherings
Whether you live in Uruguay or are just visiting, take the opportunity to meet, socialize, and trade notes with English speakers from all over the world..

Paradise Uruguay on Facebook
Watch out for ñandú!
See the latest video posted on the Paradise Uruguay Facebook page.

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Dining in Uruguay, Searching for Uruguay real estate on Spanish language websites, and more....

2010-12-28T06:40:00.000-08:00

Life in Uruguay
Dining in Uruguay – Five frequently asked questions
Learn the answers to common questions that come up for North American and non-Latin travelers dining in Uruguay.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
How to search for Uruguay real estate on Spanish language websites
Get the big picture of Uruguay’s real estate opportunities. Bookmark or print this article to use as a guide to search for Uruguay real estate on Spanish language websites.

Uruguay Expat Gatherings:
Whether you are an English speaker living in Uruguay or on a visit; you are welcome to attend any of these English speaker gatherings.

The Uruguay Phyle, Punta Expats, and the Montevideo Language Exchange all had well attended year-end/holiday events in December.

Paradise Uruguay on Facebook
After work on Christmas Eve in Montevideo's Ciudad Vieja
In addition to the spiritual celebration, Christmas in Uruguay is a time for fireworks and parties. It is also a time to share a special meal with family and close friends. The most recent post on the Paradise Uruguay Facebook page is a still photo I took last Friday afternoon, December 24th, in Montevideo's Ciudad Vieja (Old City) near the Mercado del Puerto. (If you study the photo carefully, you will detect subtle clues that a Christmas celebration is underway.)

Other recently updated and reposted articles
Uruguay Government – a concise overview of Uruguay’s system of Government
Uruguayan Food
The best time of year to shop for real estate in Uruguay
Uruguay Real Estate – Five frequently asked questions

Questions? Comments?
David Hammond

Learn Spanish in Montevideo, Starting a business in Uruguay, and much more...

2010-12-14T06:05:00.000-08:00

Life in Uruguay
Study Spanish in Montevideo
There are several Spanish language schools in Montevideo. They provide an opportunity to learn Spanish, meet new people, and really get to know South America's most livable city.

A new gallery/café opens in the Montevideo neighborhood of Pocitios
Enjoy lunch with other English speakers, take tango lessons, listen to live Celtic music, or relax with a cup of tea and check your email. The place is called Feligreta.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
Starting a business in Uruguay
Both large international companies and individuals are taking an interest in Uruguay as a place to start a business. Here’s why.

Uruguay Economy
An overview of Uruguay’s main industries.

Christmas and Holiday Gift Ideas
The all new Café Press Paradise Uruguay Store - Uruguay t-shirts, coffee mugs, and gift items
Do you love Uruguay? Do you love Tango in Montevideo? How about Punta del Este? Show your colors with one of nine new design variations.

Make a living from a notebook computer with Site Build It
Site Built It (SBI) combines technological tools and training that make it possible for anyone to develop a profitable online business. From now until December 25th, SBI is having a two-for-the-price-of-one Holiday special. SBI order page
SBI product review

Uruguay Notes:
Upcoming English speaker gatherings in Uruguay
Whether you are an English speaker living in Uruguay or on a visit; you are welcome to attend any of these gatherings.

Uruguay tax update coming
The Uruguayan Parliament voted on the revised legislation containing the new tax proposal. Montevideo attorney Mark Teuten is presently reviewing the legislation and has generously offered to provide us with a written interpretation.

Paradise Uruguay on Facebook
Slices of summer life in Uruguay
The most recent post on our Facebook page is the third in a series of videos shot last summer. Each three-minute video shows several facets of summer life in Uruguay. In this video:

The Colonia del Sacramento waterfront
Villa Serrana, located 25 miles from the town of Minas in the Department of Lavalleja
A restaurant called Perillán in the small coastal town of La Pedrera in the Department of Rocha
Gorriti Island, a small island near Punta del Este
The beaches of the Rio de la Plata in the Department of Colonia

I always appreciate learning your thoughts
David Hammond

Travel to Colonia del Sacramento, Getting a job in Uruguay, and More!

2010-11-30T07:21:00.000-08:00

Life in Uruguay
Travel to Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay
Founded by the Portuguese in 1680, Colonia del Sacramento is Uruguay’s oldest European settlement. Its picturesque historic district was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. Colonia del Sacramento is located on the Rio de la Plata (River of Silver) across from Buenos Aires, Argentina. Many people from Buenos Aires come to Colonia by ferry boat to spend a day or a weekend.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
Getting a job in Uruguay
I have written for four-and-a-half years that Uruguay is a great place to spend time and invest. However, I have never promoted it as a place to get a job or start a small business. Uruguay is a developing country and not a place where individuals from fully developed countries come to gets jobs or engage in business. Or at least it didn’t used to be.

Product Review
A low-cost and effective online business solution
The biggest change I have witnessed in the expat community over the last several years is the growing number of people who have achieved personal freedom and mobility by means of an online business. Technology has reached a point that makes it possible for any motivated person to make a living from just about anywhere in the world. This product review is about a proven online business system that is producing impressive results, even for people with no prior online business experience.

Uruguay Meetings and Events
Expat notes from November:

The Punta Expats, organized by Silvia Haas, had a turn out of 65 people for their November meeting held at Kitty's on the Punta del Este marina.
Doug Casey, the famous speculator and best selling financial author, spoke to the Uruguay Phyle, organized by Ron Yoder, at their November meeting. Doug Casey speaks to Uruguay expats.
The Language Exchange, organized by Doug Heller, had a special Thanksgiving gathering at their new venue in Pocitos.
The Expat Sunday Brunch in Pocitos, organized by Glen Roberts, recently celebrated its five year anniversary.
The Atlantida English Speaker’s, organized by Katherine Hine, has been added to our Uruguay Exapt meetings page. The group meets the first and third Thursdays of the month.

For more information about these or other expat gatherings please see our Uruguay Expat Meetings page.

Paradise Uruguay on Facebook
It is starting to feel a lot like summer! As mentioned in a previous issue - last summer a film crew traveled around Uruguay capturing moments from various places and events. From this, they produced a weekly three minute video synopsis titled Verano 360, which provides a realistic sense of summer life in Uruguay. The most recent post on the Paradise Uruguay Facebook page is the Verano 360 video for the first week of January 2010, which includes scenes from:

The riverfront community of Atlántida
The zoo with all indigenous animals at Pan de Azucar (near Piriapolis).
A cruise ship anchored off of Punta del Este.
Camping in Piriapolis.
Spending time at the beach in Punta del Diablo.

I always appreciate your thoughts and comments
David Hammond

Travel to Punta del Diablo, Uruguay economic news, and more

2010-11-11T03:28:00.000-08:00

Life in Uruguay
Travel to Punta del Diablo, Uruguay
Punta del Diablo is one of my favorite coastal towns. If you want to see what it looks like when a small traditional fishing village on a primitive coastline gets discovered by the global backpacking crowd, you will see it in Punta del Diablo during the summer. Next to Punta del Diablo is Santa Teresa, a 1,050 hectare (2,500 acre) National Park with great beaches and lots of hiking trails.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
Uruguay is the most prosperous country in Latin America according to London's Legatum Institute, which weighs quality of life factors, as well as economic factors in their ranking process.

Uruguay Meetings and Events
There are several expat gatherings scheduled over the next few days:

Friday evening Nov. 12th is the Language Exchange in Montevideo
Sunday Nov. 14th is a special gathering of the Uruguay Phyle at the Hotel del Lago in Punta del Este. Normally open to everyone, this one meeting will be by RSVP for members only due to limited space.
Sunday Nov. 14th in Montevideo is the Expat Sunday Brunch.
Then, on Monday Nov. 15th at 11am, Punta Expats meet at a local restaurant for discussion and book exchange.

For more information on any of these and other gatherings please see our Uruguay Expat Meetings page.

Paradise Uruguay on Facebook
Summers in Uruguay are filled with recreational and entertainment opportunities. Last summer a film crew traveled around Uruguay capturing moments from various places and events. From this, they produced a weekly three minute video synopsis titled Verano 360, which provides a realistic sense of summer life in Uruguay. The most recent post on the Paradise Uruguay Facebook page is the Verano 360 video for the 3rd week of January 2010 ,which includes scenes from:

The small Uruguayan town of Carmelo, located in Southwest Uruguay. Carmelo has a boat marina and a nearby Four Season Resort and wineries.
Night cross racing in the small Uruguayan town of La Pedrera. LaPedrera is in the Uruguayan Department of Rocha near La Paloma.
A party in the Punta del Este community of José Ignacio
Santa Teresa, a large beautiful national park next to Punta del Diablo
Terranova Café in the small village of Garzón outside of Punta del Este. This little place, started by Chef Francis Mallman, is world famous.

Your thoughts and feedback are always appreciated. Contact us

Uruguay Banking, Caught in the crossfire of Currency Wars, and a Tango trivia question

2010-10-28T10:23:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
Antiquity, grandeur, and intrigue
The main branch of Banco República, Uruguay's largest bank, is an impressive structure located in Montevideo's Old City.

Uruguay Real Estate and Business
A primer about banks and banking in Uruguay
Why is Uruguay considered an important regional banking center? Is Uruguay a tax haven? Did the global recession impact the economic health of Uruguayan banks? What are the banking options available in Uruguay? What is required to open a Uruguayan bank account? Is a Uruguayan bank account right for you?

Uruguay News
Latin America is caught in the crossfire of 'currency wars'
As the US dollar weakens, capital is pouring into the robust economies of Brazil, Uruguay, and Chile to realize a higher yield. But what is good for investors may not be good for local commodity producers and exporters.

Uruguay Store New!
Check out these quality Uruguay t-shirts, caps, and gear produced by Cafe Press:
with the Paradise Uruguay logo at the Cafe Press Paradise Uruguay Store
with the Uruguay Flag

Paradise Uruguay on Facebook
Tango trivia question?
One year ago the United Nations declared that Tango was a part of the world's cultural heritage. The 24 member committee of UNESCO's Intergovernmental Committee of Intangible Heritage gave the tango dance and tango music protected cultural status. The birthplace of Tango is now eligible to receive money from a special fund set aside to help protect cultural traditions.
Question: What country did UNESCO deem to be the birthplace of Tango?
Find the answer in the most recent video on the Paradise Uruguay Facebook page.

Uruguay Meetings and Events
* Uruguay expat meetings
* Uruguay entertainment events

Uruguay's country fair, answers to real estate FAQ's, Uruguay's economy, and more

2010-09-21T02:53:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
Expo Prado 2010 - A day at Uruguay's Country Fair
Here are my notes from attending this event promoting Uruguay's agricultural industry and celebrating the rural lifestyle.

Uruguay Real Estate
Answers to five frequently asked real estate questions
What is required for a foreigner to buy real estate in Uruguay? How much is the average real estate commission and who pays it? Why is there more than one real estate sign on properties for sale? How do I know I am getting clear title when I buy real estate in Uruguay? What are typical real estate acquisition and sales costs? Find the answers here.

Uruguay News
Uruguay's economy is growing at an impressive rate, but Uruguay's President Jose (Pepe) Mujica perceives that much of Uruguay's economic growth is due to the growth of the region as a whole - but nevertheless believes Uruguay should take advantage of the situation. According to a September 18th article in the MercoPress: The Uruguayan president said that the strong showing of China globally and Brazil regionally are pulling the train, and “we should not be arrogant and believe it was our making, it’s the circumstances, we must admit prudence and try and store for not so good times, that will come”.

Uruguay Meetings and Events
* Uruguay expat meetings
* Uruguay entertainment events

Paradise Uruguay on Facebook
The most recent post on our Facebook page is a TV commercial encouraging Uruguayans to be friendly to foreign tourists in Uruguay. In the first 8 months of 2010, the number of tourists visiting Uruguay grew by 13% (to 1.5 million) over the same period in 2009. One of Uruguay's greatest attractions for tourism is the warmth of the Uruguayan people. To help keep Uruguay tourist-friendly the Ministry of Tourism produced an ad campaign reminding Uruguayans: "un turista un amigo"

Uruguay Relocation

2010-09-13T15:22:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
Life in Uruguay - The Unbearable Slowness of Being
What is the idiosyncrasy of Uruguayan culture that endears and yet sometimes challenges many English speakers who have moved their lives to Uruguay? (Revisited and revised from September '09)

Uruguay News
Immigration to Uruguay is Up
Uruguay's net migration is positive for the first time in 44 years. Who is relocating to Uruguay?

Uruguay Real Estate
Do you want to explore moving to Uruguay? Uruguay has many furnished short term apartments for rent, which provide a comfortable and economical solution for longer stays.

Short-term Rentals in Montevideo
This well established directory provides a broad selection of short-term apartments in Montevideo.

Short-term Rentals in Punta del Este
This link has several detached single-family homes that are available as short-term rentals in Punta del Este (as well as an apartment in Montevideo). Inquire for shoulder season and low season rates in Punta del Este, which are much lower than the high season rates shown. (Montevideo's prices are usually the same year-round.)
(Do you have a vacation rental or property for sale in Uruguay you would like to advertise? Click here for info.)

Uruguay Meetings and Events
* Uruguay expat meetings
* Uruguay entertainment events

Paradise Uruguay on Facebook
The most recent post on our Facebook page a is a well-polished video providing a perspective of Uruguay as a place to relocate.
Two friends sent me a link to this just-posted video last week. Is Uruguay paradise on earth? I think it depends who you are, what you are looking for, and where you are at in life. It felt like it to me when I came to Uruguay (thus "Paradise Uruguay").
Caveat: One thing in the video that is misleading is at the end when it shows the interior of a luxury apartment and reports that you can live in Uruguay for 1,500 to 2,000 US dollars per month. Most people could live comfortably in Uruguay for that amount, but not in the style that is depicted.

Pre-Columbian Art, Architects in Uruguay, Uruguay Tax Reform Update, and More

2010-08-31T09:53:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
Museo de Arte Precolombino e Indígena
Montevideo's Pre-Columbian and Indian Art Museum is commonly known as MAPI

Uruguay Real Estate
The Role of Architects in Uruguay
In addition to designing structures and overseeing construction, architects in Uruguay perform property inspections and appraisals.

Uruguay News
Uruguay Tax Reform Update
Okay - here is a "just the facts" update on Uruguay's tax reform. It was prepared and provided to us by Montevideo attorney, Mark Teuten, the founder of Teuten Abogados, providing a variety of bilingual legal services in Uruguay.

Uruguay Meetings and Events
* Uruguay Expat Meetings
* Events in Punta del Este
* Events in Montevideo

Paradise Uruguay on Facebook
Today's Facebook post is a video with great images of Rocha taken from a motorized hang-glider. I received this link in the Uruguay Phyle email, where it was introduced by Uruguay Phyle member, Susan Etcheverry. (For more info on the Uruguay Phyle contact Ron.)

Oldies Dance Night in Uruguay, Punta del Este real estate market, andTax proposal update

2010-08-24T10:02:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
Noche de la Nostalgia
Today, August 24th is an official Uruguayan holiday to go out and dance to Oldies Music.

Uruguay Real Estate
Punta del Este real estate sales average 2.6 million dollars per day
1.5 billion dollars of real estate sold in Punta del Este over the last year-and-a-half. Learn what areas and types of properties brought the greatest dollar volume of sales.

Uruguay News
Local attorney provides Uruguay tax proposal update to expat group in Punta del Este
Revised draft of Uruguayan tax proposal assures that a foreign resident's income generated outside of Uruguay is never taxed.

Uruguay Meetings and Events
* Uruguay Expat Meetings
* Events in Punta del Este
* Events in Montevideo

Note to Punta del Este area Expats:
Members of the Uruguay Phyle (a Punta del Este area expat gathering) are making group orders for organic produce (direct from a local farm) and quantities of nuts. If you would like to learn more about this contact Ron at the Uruguay Phyle.

Paradise Uruguay on Facebook
Our latest Facebook post is a Uruguay slide show, accompanied by classic Uruguayan music.
If you are a new subscriber, you may want to visit this link to see this or one of several other Uruguay videos posted on the Paradise Uruguay Facebook page.

A Special Thank You!
Thank you for subscribing to the Uruguay Insider. The rate of new subscriptions has really picked up (to over 100 per week). In addition to thanking you, I want to invite you to contact me with feedback. Please let me know what you like, what you don't like, and what types of articles and information you would like to see more of. Your feedback will help keep this newsletter pertinent and on the mark.

Mercedes, Uruguay, 10 Reasons to Invest in Uruguay real estate, Uruguay exports up 23%, and more

2010-08-10T09:23:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
Focus on Mercedes, Uruguay
Mercedes is in Western Uruguay on the Black River. The Guarani Indians called the Black River the "Hum". The area where Mercedes is located is so lovely that the Guarani referred to it as the place where the "Hum flirts".

Uruguay Real Estate
Uruguay real estate - 10 reasons to make it your offshore investment choice
In addition to attractive properties in great settings, Uruguay offers a safe and attractive investment climate.

Uruguay News
Uruguay exports up 23% as sales to Russia and China increase
Uruguay exports went way up during the first seven months of 2010

Uruguay Meetings and Events

Uruguay Extra
Join us on Facebook to view the second part of a video produced by the Uruguayan ministry of tourism and sports posted last week. This week's video has more about lesser known areas of Uruguay and Uruguay's cultural events.

Five reasons to visit Punta del Este in Winter, World famous architect designs bold projects in Uruguay, Uruguay's phone number system changing, and more

2010-08-04T08:24:00.000-07:00

South America’s Southern Cone countries, including Uruguay, are currently experiencing unusually cold temperatures. However, even in the middle of a cold winter Uruguay is bustling. Almost all the hotels in Montevideo are full and Punta del Este, which used to all but close down in the winter, has a lot of activity.

Uruguay’s tourism statistics support what is being seen on the ground. The number of people visiting Uruguay rose 7% last year, for a total of 2 million visitors, which is equal to over 60% of the total Uruguayan population of 3.5 million - more visitors per capita that any other Latin American country.

But why, you may be asking yourself, would an English speaker come to Punta del Este (a place known almost exclusively as a summer beach resort) in the middle of South America’s winter? Read on….

Life in Uruguay
Five reasons to visit Punta del Este in winter
Learn what is motivating English speakers to visit Punta del Este in the off season

Uruguay Real Estate
Architect, Carlos Ott projects in Uruguay
Carlos Ott's resume includes landmark projects in 16 countries and a multitude of international awards. Mr Ott's many projects in Uruguay include a new Punta del Este tower that is just starting construction.

Uruguay News
Uruguay phone number system changes
Here is what you need to know to make Uruguay phone calls after August 29th

Uruguay Meetings and Events
Uruguay Expat Meetings

Events in Punta del Este

Events in Montevideo

Uruguay Extra
Join us on Facebook to view a video with a great overview of life in Uruguay, produced by the Uruguayan ministry of tourism and sports

Profile of a Uruguayan artist, Best time of year to shop for real estate, Wind energy coming to Uruguay, and more

2010-07-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

Life in Uruguay
Uruguayan Artist Javier Cruz
Profile of a talented Uruguayan artist painting and living in Montevideo.

Uruguay Real Estate
The best time of year to shop for real estate in Uruguay
Why the best time to play is not the best time to shop for real estate.

Uruguay News
More wind energy coming to Uruguay
The government of Uruguay to contract with private companies to produce wind farm generated power.

Note:
As of July1st, UTE (Uruguay's State owned electric utility) may enter into agreements to buy electricity from customers connected to their low voltage network, with the condition that the energy is produced from a renewable energy source.

Uruguay Meetings and Events
Uruguay Expat Meetings

Events in Punta del Este

Events in Montevideo

Uruguay Extra
Mal Día para Pescar
Trailer for the film, Mal Día para Pescar (Bad Day to Go Fishing) filmed entirely in Uruguay.

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