Group trips to Uruguay

Uruguay is in the Uruguay Standard Time Zone, which is 3 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-3). Uruguay does not observe daylight saving time, so this remains constant throughout the year. If it's 12 pm in the UK, it will be 9 am in Uruguay. If it's 12 pm in New York, USA, it will be 2 pm in Uruguay. Keep this in mind when planning your calls or virtual meetings during your trip.

Uruguay uses the Uruguayan Peso (UYU) as its currency. The daily exchange rate can vary, but it is approximately:

• 1 GBP = 48 UYU
• 1 USD = 38 UYU
• 1 EUR = 41 UYU

You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels. Make sure to compare rates to get the best deal.

You can pay in Uruguay using credit cards, which are widely accepted in most places, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted. It's also a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or in rural areas. ATMs are common in cities, allowing you to withdraw local currency, Uruguayan pesos. Always check with your bank about any international transaction fees before you travel.

In Uruguay, tipping isn't mandatory, but it's appreciated for good service. In restaurants, leaving a tip of about 10 percent is common and welcomed. You can give the tip directly to the server or leave it on the table. For taxis, rounding up the fare is generally appreciated but not required. At hotels, you might want to tip porters and housekeeping staff a small amount for their services. Keep in mind that tipping in Uruguay is usually done in cash.

In Uruguay, you'll find that Wi-Fi is widely available, especially in urban areas, hotels, cafes, and restaurants. However, for reliable connectivity on the go, getting a local SIM card is a good idea. You can purchase a SIM card from providers like Antel, Movistar, or Claro at the airport or in many convenience stores. This will give you access to local data plans to stay connected while exploring. If you prefer not to switch SIMs, consider an e-SIM data plan as an alternative.

In Uruguay, the official language is Spanish. Here are some useful colloquial expressions you might hear or use while traveling there:

• Hello: Hola
• Thank you: Gracias
• Please: Por favor
• How much does it cost?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
• Where is the bathroom?: ¿Dónde está el baño?
• Good morning: Buenos días

Spanish in Uruguay has a distinctive accent and includes some unique words and phrases, so don't be surprised if it sounds a bit different from other Spanish-speaking countries.

In Uruguay, you'll find Type C and Type F plugs, similar to the ones used in Europe. The voltage is 230V and the frequency is 50Hz. If you're traveling from a country that uses different plugs, we suggest you bring a universal adapter to keep your devices charged. Always double-check your devices are compatible with 230V to avoid any issues.

In Uruguay, the main religion is Roman Catholicism, but it's worth noting that Uruguay is quite secular compared to other countries in the region. You will find a significant number of people who identify as non-religious or who follow other religions. Important holidays include Christmas and Easter, which are widely observed with family gatherings and celebrations. Uruguay’s culture is generally relaxed about religious practices, allowing for a diverse and open environment.

When packing for Uruguay, consider the season and activities you plan to do. Here's a handy list to help you prepare your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Light layers for summer months like t-shirts and shorts
  • Warm layers for winter such as sweaters and a jacket
  • Swimwear for beach visits
  • Comfortable pants or jeans for casual outings
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for the beach
  • Dressier shoes if you plan on dining out
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
  • A universal power adapter
  • Portable charger
  • Phone and camera
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Basic toiletries like toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Travel-sized shampoo and conditioner
  • Common travel medication such as pain relievers and anti-diarrheal tablets

With these essentials, you'll be set for a great trip to Uruguay.

Uruguay has a temperate climate, so you can expect mild weather most of the year, but it varies slightly depending on the region.

• Coastal Areas: Summers (December to February) are warm and humid, while winters (June to August) can be cool and windy. Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer pleasant temperatures.
• Inland: Summers can be quite hot, while winters might bring cooler temperatures than the coast.

The best time to visit is during spring and autumn when the weather is mild and enjoyable.