Uruguay has three main mobile phone providers: Antel (state-owned, generally wider coverage), Movistar, and Claro. Prepaid SIM cards are readily available.
Wi-Fi availability is widespread and generally reliable in Montevideo. Most hotels, hostels, cafes, and restaurants feature free Wi-Fi for customers. Public Wi-Wi-fi hotspots appear in shopping malls, a few major plazas, and at the airport.
Spanish is Uruguay's official language. The local dialect is Uruguayan Spanish, sharing similarities with Rioplatense Spanish, including using Vos instead of Tú for informal "you."
The Google Translate app is invaluable. Download the Castilian offline pack before your trip for use without an internet connection. It assists with translating words, phrases, and text from images (menus, signs).
Download the Castilian offline pack for your Translation app. A Small notebook and pen prove incredibly useful.
Operating hours and holiday schedules influence your daily plans in Montevideo.
Shops generally open Monday-Friday 9/10 AM to 7/20:00, with shorter Saturday hours. Malls open daily 10 AM to 9/10 PM.
Lunch service runs 12/1 PM to 3/4 PM. Dinner often starts 8/9 PM and continues late. Coffee shops open in the morning until early evening.
Museum hours vary; many public museums close on Mondays. Always check individual museum websites with specific opening times and holiday hours.
Banks generally open Monday to Friday, 1:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Bank hours restrict daily schedules, so organize in-person banking needs accordingly.
Uruguay observes several public holidays: New Year's Day, Carnival Monday/Tuesday, Tourism Week (Easter), Labor Day, National Day of independence, Christmas Day.
Check individual business web pages for certain hours, notably during holidays or the summer season. This ensures accurate planning.
A firm handshake with direct eye contact is the standard formal greeting. Informally, one kiss on the right cheek is common among friends, acquaintances, and often upon first introduction. This applies to both men and women.
Montevideo generally has a casual dress code. Jeans and t-shirts appear acceptable for most daytime activities and casual dining. For upscale restaurants, evening events, or cultural performances (like at Teatro Solís), smart casual attire works well.
In restaurants, wait for staff to seat you. Meals are societal and unhurried; do not expect quick service. Tipping is generally 10% for good service.
It's considered polite to get consent before taking pictures of individuals, especially children. A simple gesture and "Permiso?" often work. Respect their decision if they decline.
Embracing the relaxed pace of life and learning simple Spanish phrases deepens your experience. A Small notebook is incredibly helpful for jotting down phrases or for communication if your handset runs out of battery.
Montevideo is working towards better accessibility, but travelers with mobility challenges do best with planning ahead.
Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited compared to some more developed countries.
Information specific to accessible travel in Montevideo can be challenging to find centrally in English.
Newer facilities are generally accessible, while older areas like Ciudad Vieja present challenges.
Public public buses possess limited accessibility; taxis and ride-shares offer more flexibility but may require prior arrangement.
Direct inquiries to venues and hotels often yield the most accurate accessibility details.
