PlanetEye

May 15th, 2008

Colonia, Uruguay

Brendan

The Global Nomad

Just a few hours’ bus from Montevideo or short speed ferry from Buenos Aires, the Uruguayan UNESCO World Heritage town of Colonia del Sacramento lives in a tranquil time warp. A quiet town of cafés and cobblestone streets, crumbling ramparts and a siesta that seems to encompass most of the day, Colonia is a relaxing foil to the bustle and noise of the two nearby capital cities. A photographer’s dream, the town’s World Heritage status has led to an impeccable restoration and maintenance that stands in stark contrast to the bleak, soot-covered state of Montevideo’s historic quarter.

If travelling is wearing you down a little, take a night or two to recharge in Colonia. Sure, there isn’t much to do, but I can’t think of a better way to relax than by strolling around the ancient traffic-free laneways, stopping for coffees at the many street cafes.

Speed ferries, run by Buquebus, leave from Buenos Aires regularly and take 1 hour ($40; there is also a slower, cheaper option: 3 hours, $30); buses from Montevideo take less than three hours and cost about $10.

www.buquebus.com
www.trescruces.com.uy

Tags: Colonia, Uruguay

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