Arrival in Uruguay

So in case you wondering:  I made it to Uruguay!


I arrived in Uruguay after spending over 24 hours in the airport or on planes on Sunday.  Two of my flights were delayed, but that wasn't so bad.  I am here now.

For the past three days the other ETA's and I have been having orientation in Montevideo.  We are learning just exactly we will be doing during our time in Uruguay.  Everyone I have met has been super friendly and so welcoming.  I know I am going to like it here.  

Tuesday we took a tour of Montevideo, specifically visiting 

• Ciudad Vieja (Old City, Historic District)
  
• Plaza de Independencia (Independence Plaza where a stature pays tribute to Uruguay's national hero, José Gervasio Artigas, and also where his remains are guarded 24/7) 
  
• Palacio Parlamento (the Capitol Building, or rather where their legislative body meets)
  
• Torre de las Telecomunicaciones (Telecommunications Tower, the tallest building overlooking the city)
  
• Opera Solis (Opera House)
  
• El Prado (ritzy neighborhood where the president lives)  

Unfortunately, I forgot my camera on the tour, but I did sneak out for a quick walk to snap some photos of the coast line along La Rambla which is basically the beach nestled against the Pocitos neighborhood where our hotel is located.


Wednesday we wrapped up our orientation in the capital by meeting with our mentors who will be assisting us in Salto.  I think I'm going to be working with some great people at some great schools.

Tonight we had a delicious catered dinner at one of the Fulbright director's houses where we rubbed shoulders with a bunch of very important people and got to watch hired performers dance the tango for us.  It was so beautiful.  Sigh.  What a lovely evening.