Looking for a destination that's off the usual tourist beaten path? A laid-back destination with rolling farmlands, spectacular beaches and a charming, cosmopolitan capital city? A place the overtourism problem has yet to rear its ugly head?

Well, look no farther than Uruguay, a South American country the size of Missouri tucked between Argentina and Brazil.

 

I first came here in 2017 on a day trip from Argentina, but decided then and there that I wanted to return and really get to know the country. Eight years later, a $200 voucher from LATAM Airlines provided the perfect excuse.

 

I spent two weeks in Uruguay, discovering three locations: the capital Montevideo, a farm stay ('estancia') near the tiny town of Valentines, and a remote beach village called Cabo Polonio. What I found was beautiful scenery, friendly people, incredible food, and several spectacular sunsets. Most of all, I found two weeks of wonderful experiences and relaxation.  

 

Uruguay often claims the title of the safest and most stable nation on the continent, but it's anything but boring.