Visiting the rural areas of this small yet unique and diverse country is like taking a step back in time. Farms, cars, and infrastructure appear to be set back in the 50's. Even the culture is a bit in that fashion. People prioritize friendly conversation over work, they take a 2-3 hour lunch and they drink their "mate" throughout the day, sharing it with others as they discuss politics, family and futbol (soccer). Most farms combine grass and pasture fed cattle with row crops. Cheese, meat and wine are staple items on the Uruguayan dinner table.

Uruguay is an interesting blend of influence from Brazil and Argentina. For example, they celebrate carnival but it has a more political/intellectual rather than glamorous flavor such as in Brazil. A new government was elected last year that disrupted a two party dominance for the past 92 years. Many Uruguayos are hopeful that this will bring about much desired economic and social changes. Uruguay is very dependant on its larger neighbors, Brazil and Argentina.

During the economic crisis in Argentina in 2001, Uruguay suffered similar problems. Montevideo, the capital of Uruguay, is located on the Rio De La Plata delta across from Buenos Aires, Argentina. This is a critical port to South America which puts Uruguay in a critical position, hence its designation as the capital base for Mercosur, a free trade agreement amongst several South American countries.

I have the advantage of a personal connection with Uruguay. My father is from Colonia, Uruguay, an area known for its great cheeses due to its large population of Swiss immigrants. Any Midwesterner would feel right at home in Uruguay.