There's nothing like a last-minute weekend trip, especially when it's to Uruguay! From the time I arrived, my host mother had told me that Colonia is worth the time and money. I would have to agree. Jen, Willa, Emily, Cande and I packed our bags and headed out to catch a buquebus across the river. After checking into our adorable little hostel ($11 per person per night!) called "El Español", we found a creperia and came prepared with coupons for free liqueur. Time passes quickly when you're amongst good food and good company. After a nearly three-hour meal, we finally asked for the bill and completed the first of many long math puzzles (we paid with Uruguayan pesos, Argentine pesos, and US dollars while in Colonia).
Later Saturday, we explored the small, colonial-style town (hence the name), watched the sun set over the river, and found an adorable cafe where we spent another good amount of time. I had the best submarino of the trip there (submarino: hot chocolate made literally with warm milk and a chunk of chocolate). Then, on our way back to the hostel, we happened upon a jazz concert!
Oh! Almost forgot that we celebrated the 4th of July in Colonia!
The following day, we woke up early to catch some photos of the sunrise. It was a bit overcast, but still beautiful and amazingly quiet. It's easy to forget how fast-paced and over-stimulating the big city can be!
Later Sunday, Cande, Willa and Emily went horseback riding outside of Colonia. Instead of partcipating in that adventure, Jennifer and I found a place that rented golf carts and go-carts out to visitors. It was unreal. We got a go-cart (me without a license!) and literally drove it down the highway along the coast, passing and being passed by regular traffic. Only in South America...
