Uruguay Off The Beaten Path Travel Articles

Uruguay: Colonia del Sacramento

Uruguay: Colonia del Sacramento: Exploring the history and art of the South American city, that’s only 75 minutes by ferry from Buenos Aires.

Uruguay, Peeking in on Pablo Neruda

“You didn’t choose Uruguay, Uruguay chose you,” says my Spanish teacher. Many others agree. Home to poets and mystics, we explore the home of poet Pablo Neruda.

Uruguay, South America’s Secret

Uruguay: South America’s Secret. A country with swank beach resorts, ranches and wine–and legal pot as well as exciting Montevideo and Punta del Este.

Offbeat Uruguay: A Country That Celebrates Individuality

Ian Sumter visits Montevideo and Colonia in Uruguay and sees numerous pageants, parades and other celebrations of the country’s individuality.

Alternative Spring Break: Building Houses in Uruguay

As an alternative to the usual college spring break, Jon Brandt helps build a house for a family in Uruguay. Read about his experience here!

Cabo Polonio, Uruguay’s Fabled Ombu Tree

Cabo Polonio, Uruguay: Kelly Westhoff describes her trip to Cabo Polonio, Uruguay, to view the rare Ombu Tree.

GoNOMAD Travel Podcast

Take a few minutes to travel the world with The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast. Brought to you by the long-running GoNOMAD travel website, The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast brings you audio stories from destinations around the globe. It’s short-form… 3-7 minute long episodes. No jarring AM radio-style theme songs, no ads, just an interesting short travel story and some food for thought, from editor Max Hartshorne. Fun!
While you’re planning your next trip or travel adventure, download and listen to The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast.

GoNomad is part of the Voyascape Travel Network & you can find more of our travel podcasts from around the world at https://voyascape.com/
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The New Year celebration in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and traditions that provides a unique experience for all who partake. The city is alive with energy as it transforms into a vibrant hub for festivities.

January 1 is not just a day but the beginning of a week-long holiday where locals and visitors alike engage in a variety of celebratory activities. The streets are bustling with life, illuminated by lanterns that glow softly against the backdrop of the night sky, while the scent of street food tantalizes the senses. This journey through Chiang Mai reveals the many layers of its New Year festivities, from its breathtaking natural beauty to the deep-rooted cultural practices that make this time of year so special. Among the most striking sights during this season is the blooming of the Himalayan cherry blossoms.

A short trip to Kun Chang Hian allows visitors to witness these stunning flowers in full bloom, creating a magical setting for exploration. Here, one can engage with local traditions, such as listening to the kyan, the traditional bamboo mouth organ played by village children, or trying one’s hand at archery using bamboo bows.

The culinary scene is equally delightful, featuring local delicacies, including the famous grilled pork sausage, which embodies the rich flavors of Thai cuisine. As the celebrations culminate on New Year’s Eve, a profound sense of spirituality envelops the city. Temples become sanctuaries for nighttime prayer, and the flickering lights of candles enhance the tranquil atmosphere. Participants gather to release floating lanterns, a symbolic gesture of releasing past burdens and inviting new fortunes into their lives.

This ritual not only enhances the visual splendor of the night sky but also fosters a deep connection among participants, creating a moment of shared hope and renewal. The New Year in Chiang Mai is more than just a celebration; it is a heartfelt embrace of tradition, community, and the promise of new beginnings.