Colonia
What is it that in so many parts of the world, old Portuguese settlements remain so attractive? In the case of Uruguay, Colonia is a very clear example of how history has its consequences into modern times. Old Portuguese conquerors can be proud. Just a short hop from Buenos Aires on the opposite of the Rio de la Plata, this charming town is in many ways the opposite of the stressful and crowded Argentine capital.
Walking around Colonia can easily be done in a day. Any walking tour through the historic centre of the city will allow the visitor to see many romantic corners, laid-back streets, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Anyone in love with old street lanterns, cobblestone streets, walls covered by lovely flowers, appropriate houses and (very) old cars will certainly appreciate this town.
Even the shops in this town are built into old colonial buildings. It's really stepping back in time, and a welcome change away from the metropolis Buenos Aires, which actually is younger than this settlement which once was the border between Portuguese and Spanish speaking colonizers. The name of the town is certainly well chosen!
Visited: January 1994
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