Gay Montevideo Montevideo City Guide

There are two big reasons Montevideo gets overlooked as one of the world’s best gay travel destinations–namely Brazil and Argentina, the two behemoth countries that wedge in tiny Uruguay. Hiding in plain sight, Montevideo is a chill, earthy, cosmopolitan city with one of the world’s only “homomonuments.” Yes, this country the size of North Carolina is actually one of the planet’s most liberal nations and by far the most open-minded in Latin America when it comes to homosexuality. With a staunch division between church and state, same-sex sex has been legal since 1934 and gay marriage since 2013. The nation has been called ‘a model for social inclusion in Latin America’ and ranks fifth in the world on the Gay Happiness Index. All that and it’s a great city to boot. Fifteen miles of coastal promenade for running, swimming, sunning, or ambling aimlessly holding your partner’s hand. Posh shopping districts and quaint colonial architecture. Leafy plazas and serious grilled meats. But what really sets the city apart is how authentically laid back the culture is, while at the same time being worldly. Montevideo is hippie and hip at the same time.

The best hotels in Montevideo

The Italian businessman who converted a run-down historic home into the irresistible Casa Roberto worked in public relations representing UNESCO World Heritage Sites before pursuing his dream to create a guest house. With just five rooms, it’s an intimate a stay as you can have. WIth a vintage shop in the basement, Cottage Puerto Buceo is a sleek and sweet option. It’s got a hot tub, indoor pool and bikes for hire. If you’re an outdoorsy type who prefers your urban experience in doses, you can do no better than La Baguala, a country estate hotel just outside Montevideo where you have your own private beach, pool, tennis court and horseback riding sessions. If you prefer to be in the middle of the action, the modern Hyatt Centric Montevideo sits right on the waterfront with beautiful views and is pet-friendly. It’s got a little book nook called The Corner, a quaint reading lounge that’s a wonderful place to catch up on work or emails. The nautical Art Deco facade of the Don Boutique Hotel Montevideo belies its sleek interior. The panoramic rooftop has a pool, sun terrace and bar. The 44-room Own Montevideo offers a cool “Customize Your Stay” option that allows you to specify your taste in music, arts, food and sports, and whether you have a sweet tooth and then tailors your stay accordingly. Located in the upscale coastal neighbourhood of Las Carretas.