April 14th
Today we docked in Montevideo. Another beautiful day. We have been so lucky so far…the weather could not have been better. We had a short tour of Montevideo city. This I could have passed on!! City was dirty and did not offer much, We then headed out of the city to the “Vinedo de los Vientos winery. This is a small winery run by a long couple. We had a delightful tour of the grapes and then a wine tasting.
Next it was on to the Estancia Renacimiento..the same estancia that Samantha Brown visited. We were greeted at the entrance by gauchos
We also had another great meal (Asado..barbeque) with lots of good wine.
We all enjoyed the day immensely.
April 15th
Today we arrived in Punta del Estes. I found out late yesterday that this is a tender port. This does present a problem as I will need to make arrangements to get tender tickets for the 23 people I have arranged this tour for. Lots of phone calls and getting the tender tickets at 6:30AM. I was really surprised that I was able to get tickets for all 23 people. Getting off the ship went very well. I was really worried about that. Herbert Sismondi, the same3 guide we had in Montevideo met us again this morning. Another beautiful day.
Our first stop was at the pier to see the resident sea lions…….
Delia and Stephen got up close and personal
We traveled along the beaches to see the “Hands in the Sand” monument. We also drove thru many other beautiful neighborhoods of VERY expensive homes..This is definitely much more upscale than Montevideo.
We crossed the Pendant bridges on the Maldonado River….Like riding a roller coaster!
Then on to Whale Point and a visit to CasaPueblo, the home of Carlos Paez Vilaro, a famous Uruguayan artist who still maintains a an art gallery. VERY EXPENSIVE ..
We always find a cat…..this one only costs $20,000…..guess we won’t be buying this!!!
Another great day. Everything went pretty well considering I had 23 people on this tour. Tomorrow is a sea day. Looking forward to just relaxing and getting ready for our first formal evening
