The Area:
A sleepy little town in the off season, LaBarra teams with people in the high season. Nearby restaurants, art galleries, spa, casino, bars and clubs are active in the high season, but closed in the off peak times. Montoya Beach is just at the end the street, a short walk away. Surfing, surf fishing and people watching are excellent activities. Up the coast are deserted beach areas and quaint art communities. Uruguay is safe, friendly, and a very nice place to spend some time. Fly to Buenos Aires and then to either Montevideo or Punta del Este. Car rentals are available and the roads are well maintained. Montevideo, the capital, is a well preserved European like city with sidewalk restaurants, bazaars, and sights to see. Punta del Este is about an hour and a half drive from Montevideo.
Punta del Este Area:
The Punta del Este region is centered on the peninsula and extends along the coast in both directions for seven miles. Playa Mansa is the beach that extends toward Montevideo, and Playa Brava heads off to the northeast and LaBarra. The tip of the peninsula separates the Atlantic Ocena from Rio de la Plata, although the water all appears as ocean. Playa Mansa offers calm swimming beaches while the Playa Brava area lends itself to rugged surf. Prices are economical as great meals can be had for $12 to $15 per person. The sidewalk restaurants on the peninsula offer ambiance and wonderful music filled late night dining. The Conrad Hotel and Casino offers english speaking staff and is owned by Harrahs. A real estate revival is in progress here, with many new high rises under construction. Uruguay is often referred to as the Switzerland of South America. There is no sales tax. The locals welcome tourists as they are the lifeblood of the community.
Other Activities:
Gambling