Being one of the smallest South American countries, the Republic of Uruguay is largely overshadowed on the tourism map by its more popular and bigger neighbors, Brazil and Argentina. However this largely flat country of rolling plains, hilly meadows and rivers, bordered by hundreds of miles of fine sandy Atlantic beaches, sports some fascinating towns (including its atmospheric capital, Montevideo), unspoilt seaside resorts, and some of the cheapest and most delectable steaks you will find anywhere.

From the charming cobbled old town of Colonia del Sacramento (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) hung with flowering jasmine, to its cattle ranches populated with daring gauchos(cowboys) and the bright, brash international beach resort of Punta del Este, Uruguay is a playground to delight any traveller.

Uruguay was first colonized by Spain during the 16th and 17th centuries, having been spared the worst of the conquest of the Americas by the fact that the country had no gold or silver. The Spanish introduced cattle farming, and beef exports today remain the mainstay of the Uruguay economy, along with a fast-growing tourism industry.

Politically the country is stable, economically it is fairly prosperous, and it has one of the lowest crime rates in South America. Add to this its friendly and welcoming people, and the wonderful, sultry summer sunshine, and most people will find that Uruguay is one of the world's most accommodating destinations.

From the Word Travels destination guide to Uruguay copyright Globe Media 2011