Foto: The old center of Colonia (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
Uruguay - I walk into the town of Colonia. At the bus station, I immediately buy a bus ticket for tomorrow afternoon. Although the clerk does not speak a word of English, I manage to get the right ticket with gestures and a little Spanish. I had just gotten used to the Argentine peso. Now I have to get used to the Uruguayan peso. I check into my hotel, exchange money, and walk into the old town. Everything is within walking distance. Colonia del Sacramento was founded in 1680 by the Portuguese and later conquered by the Spanish. These influences are still visible in the streets. I enter the Basilica del Santísimo Sacramento, the oldest church in Uruguay. The church is simply furnished. At Plaza Mayor 25 de Mayo stands the striking 'Faro' lighthouse. The tower is square at the base and round at the top. I climb the 34-meter-high tower. From the top, I have a view over Colonia del Sacramento. “Do you want me to take a photo?” asks an Argentine girl. Of course, as long as she wants one of me too. A third boy from Brazil joins the queue. “Can you take a photo of me as well?” he asks. As we walk down, I strike up a conversation. His name is Flavio, and he is returning to Buenos Aires tonight before going back to Brazil. His vacation is over. He helps me with the pronunciation of a few Portuguese words, though I fear I will need more help. At the bottom, we shake hands firmly and say goodbye. I continue to the Calle de los Suspiros, a narrow, authentic street with small colorful houses. Behind it stands the city wall and the gate at Bastion de San Miguel. Colonia is such a fun, cozy, and beautiful town. I am amazed.
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