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Bikepacker's South American Adventure
Another scorcher of a day, it was 33 Celsius when I checked the weather just before noon. I was pretty thankful for the shaded bus stops, had to take more breaks and drink tons of water just to stay sane. It is beautiful going along the water, but that also means less shade. I tried cutting through small towns when I could, which made for a slightly cooler and interesting ride. Still spent a fair amount of time on the main highway as it is unavoidable at times. Alas, the ride was still nice and the country is changing a bit as I get farther from Montevideo.
Atlantida was pretty small but Piriapolis is a bit bigger and more touristy. I would like to look around but just couldn't stay out in the heat any more, so I opted to stay another day. Thankfully it is a bit cooler today. This was a town that was privately created by a guy named Francisco Piria. He was an alchemist and laid out the town along mystical lines. After he died, family drama ensued, lawyers profited and the State took over much of the town. Makes for a nice place to wander and ride around, and of course the beautiful beach is quite the draw.
People are still very friendly here, they say hi to strangers on the street and always take a few moments to greet their friends and neighbours. I remember life was like that when I was little and lived in smaller towns. It is really refreshing, especially after living in Toronto for a few years. The houses are smallish, but really cute and unique. There is some really interesting architecture, especially along the beach leading into Piriapolis. There were some really fabulous houses overlooking the river.
Not going to lie, I have been missing my maple lattes. However, I stumbled upon an amazing iced cappuccino that was a perfect substitute. Great way to finish my ride about town!
Atlantida was pretty small but Piriapolis is a bit bigger and more touristy. I would like to look around but just couldn't stay out in the heat any more, so I opted to stay another day. Thankfully it is a bit cooler today. This was a town that was privately created by a guy named Francisco Piria. He was an alchemist and laid out the town along mystical lines. After he died, family drama ensued, lawyers profited and the State took over much of the town. Makes for a nice place to wander and ride around, and of course the beautiful beach is quite the draw.
People are still very friendly here, they say hi to strangers on the street and always take a few moments to greet their friends and neighbours. I remember life was like that when I was little and lived in smaller towns. It is really refreshing, especially after living in Toronto for a few years. The houses are smallish, but really cute and unique. There is some really interesting architecture, especially along the beach leading into Piriapolis. There were some really fabulous houses overlooking the river.
Not going to lie, I have been missing my maple lattes. However, I stumbled upon an amazing iced cappuccino that was a perfect substitute. Great way to finish my ride about town!
- comments
Gail Mowatt Beautiful!!!
Tiff Mercer Yum!
Elisabeth What an amazing trip you are having, Diane. So lovely to know you've found a cool source of caffeine in that heat. Love the descriptions of the local society. We all have to do our daily routine, but it is terrific to get a report from an adventurer!
Cheryl Duckworth Enjoying your travelogue - not sure the road pizza is very appetizing ;o Your iced coffee looks delicious and look forward to you re-creating it for me when you get back !!