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Katya & Allen

December 31, 2023 • Punta del Este Maldonado Department, Uruguay

Katya & Allen

December 31, 2023 • Punta del Este Maldonado Department, Uruguay

Q + A

WHY DID I RECEIVE TWO WEDDING INVITATIONS?

The wedding was originally planned to take place at the beginning of 2023. Unfortunately it had to be pushed for external reasons, but the wedding invitations were already produced. We felt like it was a waste to throw the old invites away, so we sent them together.

MILES HAD A STROKE: IS THE WEDDING 100% HAPPENING?

YES! The wedding is very much happening and Miles is of course attending! We've consulted his medical team in regards to this and their prognosis has been positive and optimistic. His improvement as of now has been incredible and his doctors and therapists are confident he is going to be living a "normal" life by then.

WHERE IS URUGUAY?

Uruguay is a country in South America. It shares borders with Argentina to its west and southwest and Brazil to its north; while bordering the Río de la Plata to the south and the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast. It is part of the Southern Cone region of South America. Uruguay covers an area of approximately 181,034 square kilometers (69,898 sq mi) - slightly larger than Georgia - and has a population of an estimated 3.4 million, of whom around 2 million live in the metropolitan area of its capital and largest city, Montevideo.

HOW IS THE WEATHER GOING TO BE?

Uruguay’s summer has made the country a popular destination for summer retreats throughout the continent. Between December and February, the country enjoys warm weather, with temperatures in the high 80’s Fahrenheit, and low humidity. The temperature heats up during this time of year, to highs of 83F / 28C, and lows of 67F / 19C. Particularly inviting during this season are the coastal beaches featuring sunny blue skies.

IS URUGUAY SAFE?

Yes, Uruguay is safer than most countries. The 2020 Peace Index ranks Uruguay 35th out of 163 countries. (For comparison, the U.S. ranks 121st.) Please visit this website for safety information and tips: https://internationalliving.com/is-uruguay-safe-qa/

IS URUGUAY ENGLISH FRIENDLY?

Yes. Uruguay's main language is Spanish, so while not everyone is fluent in English, they will always try to understand what you're trying to say and find a way to communicate.

WHAT ARE THE BEST WAYS TO FLY TO URUGUAY?

Although there is no direct flight to Uruguay, there are plenty of options available: - American Airlines offers one of the fastest ways to get to Uruguay, usually overnight with a stop in MIA. The total trip is about 13 hours. (2h to MIA, 10h to MVD). - LATAM Airlines: Biggest airline in Latin America, and partner with Delta Airlines. They have multiple options available with the most frequent layovers in Peru, Brazil and Chile. The average trip takes 15-17 hours. (Katya's personal favorite) - Copa Airlines: Also offers one of the fastest ways to get to Uruguay, with an average of 13 hours each way and one stop in Panama. This is usually the airline with the best deals to fly.

HOW MUCH IS A ROUNDTRIP TICKET TO URUGUAY?

It varies a lot depending on the season but a really good deal would be between USD 850 to USD 1200. Average is USD 1300 - USD 1800. Expensive is anything above. Tip: Look for flights on Monday and Tuesday mornings for the best deals, and don't forget to navigate in private mode.

CAN I MAKE A SOUTH-AMERICAN TRIP OUT OF THIS ONE?

Absolutely! We highly recommend not only coming to Punta del Este but also setting some days aside to go to Argentina, Brazil or even Chile. Argentina offers the best experience for the money thanks to the favorable exchange ratio to USD. A total must! If you're interested in planning a multi - city trip please email katyaandallen@gmail.com and we'll provide more information

IS PUNTA DEL ESTE EXPENSIVE?

Prices in Punta del Este are somewhat similar to prices in Miami. As opposed to the US, Uruguayan prices always reflect the "final" number, including VAT (~IVA) unless rarely stated otherwise. Uruguayan VAT is 22% but tourists get it discounted from the check when dining out if paying with foreign credit cards (discount will be reflected after paying on the check). Gratuity is not a must in Uruguay, but It is expected to tip 10% if the service was good.

WHERE SHOULD I STAY IN PUNTA DEL ESTE?

We have several hotel suggestions but we highly encourage our guests to be open to book an Airbnb instead. Peak season in Uruguay can get pricey, specially in PDE and although there are some beautiful hotels with breakfast included, Airbnb offers the best value for your stay with options for every budget. Reservations should be made before August/September for the best deals since most places sell out. For more accommodation questions you can email allenandkatya@gmail.com and we can help you book your stay!

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO PAY FOR THINGS IN URUGUAY?

Uruguay's official currency is the Uruguayan Peso. For reference: UYU 40 ~ USD 1. Uruguay has a highly dollarized economy, which means you can pay in USD almost everywhere and some places will even have their prices listed in USD instead of UYU. As tourists, the best way to pay for stuff will always be using credit cards, as you can make the most of the Tax Free benefits offered by the Uruguayan Government*.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO NAVIGATE URUGUAY?

There are plenty of options when it comes to transportation. Please bear in mind two things: 1- Punta del Este is very walkable and (2) The rules for drivers in Uruguay are slightly different than in the US, so Ubering instead of driving a rental car is strongly encouraged. The alcohol tolerance is 0%, and it is highly fiscalized. Traffic in PDE can be slow at times (specially during the typical rush hours), and gas is significantly more expensive than in the US. That said, car rentals are available and cost on average USD 120 per day for a base option. Uber and Taxi's are the easiest, most affordable and safest ways to navigate the city or if you prefer, you can always rent bikes!

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO GO FROM THE AIRPORT TO PUNTA DEL ESTE?

Uber is not allowed inside the airport so to get out you will either have to get one of the Taxis waiting outside or you will have to book a chofer in advance. Car rentals are also available at the airport but make sure to make your reservations prior to your trip as their availability is scarce during summer time. To book a chofer for your party email allenandkatya@gmail.com

WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR URUGUAY?

Besides the obvious staples for any location in summertime we suggest you pack a sweater/jacket (don't be fooled by Uruguayan summer, it can get really windy and cool at night!) and a white outfit (traditionally on New Year's everyone wears white for good luck and prosperity)

WHAT SHOULD WE DO WHILE IN URUGUAY?

Please go to the "Things to Do" tab on the website to check out the suggestions we have prepared for you. In addition, closer to the date we will have a list of local events available so no one misses out on the most fun activities of the summer! Stay tuned

DO I HAVE TO MAKE RESERVATIONS TO EAT OUT?

Yes! Always make your reservations to dine out in advance. During peak season all restaurants sell out, big or small. People dine out late, after 9 PM but even still, make sure to reach out to the restaurant's Instagram account or phone number to reserve a table and save your spot.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING TO THE WEDDING?

Weddings in Uruguay extend over 12 hours. Prepare yourself for a very long party with multiple surprise events and plenty of food and drinks! To make the most of the experience we suggest our guests bring a swimsuit for the after party (our wedding venue has a pool, and everyone is welcome to jump into it at the end!), and if you wish, also bring change of comfortable shoes for dancing. There is going to be a "guest closet" available handled by Aguaverde's staff to keep all of your belongings safe.

WHAT IS THE DEADLINE TO RSVP?

Guests are expected to RSVP before August 1st through email or through the RSVP tab on this website. Don't forget to include or email us your phone number and email address so we can notify you when more information about our wedding is up online!

ARE THE WEDDING CEREMONY AND RECEPTION AT THE SAME PLACE?

Yes! The wedding venue is 15 minutes away from Punta del Este and it all takes place at Aguaverde Wine Lodge.

DO YOU HAVE A REGISTRY?

We don't have one as we won't be in the US to receive any physical gifts around the time of the wedding. As we start our lives together, we are working towards creating a home filled with love and laughter. To help us reach this goal, we have set up a family fund where you can contribute as a wedding gift. This fund will go towards our future plans and dreams as a married couple. Your contribution, whether big or small, will be deeply appreciated.

TIENEN REGISTRO DE REGALOS?

No tenemos uno ya que no estaremos en los EE. UU. para recibir regalos físicos en el momento de la boda y viajar con ellos es inconveniente. A medida que comenzamos nuestras vidas juntos, estamos trabajando para crear un hogar lleno de amor y risas. Para ayudarnos a alcanzar este objetivo, hemos establecido un “fondo familiar” ("family fund" en la pestaña de Registry - para transacciones americanas) donde puedes contribuir como regalo de bodas. Este fondo se destinará a nuestros planes y sueños futuros como pareja casada. Su contribución, ya sea grande o pequeña, será muy apreciada. Para transacciones en Uruguay las cuentas son las siguientes: ITAU - UYU 2767392 o ITAU - USD 2767401

HOW DO YOU PARTY FOR OVER 12 HOURS?

Traditionally, Uruguayan wedding parties last over 12 hours, but don't worry, they go by really quick and everything is designed so you can make it until the end! All confirmed guests will receive an itinerary with the details of the wedding party so they know what to expect closer to the date.

CAN I BRING MY CHILD TO THE EVENT?

As we celebrate our special day, we kindly request that it be an adult-only affair. Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated. We want all our guests to enjoy a worry-free night and for that reason we will have a list of trustworthy nannies available for anyone interested in those services. Please email us at allenandkatya@gmail.com for more information.

WHEN SHOULD I RSVP BY?

The deadline to RSVP is August 15. Please send us an email to allenandkatya@gmail.com to let us know if you'll be able to join us or not. If you're a part of a group invitation, please make sure to include all of the names!

I CONFIRMED I'M GOING! NOW WHAT?

If you already confirmed you're coming, please make sure to send us your preferred phone number and email so we can send you more information when it's available. We'll have a booklet for all international travelers closer to the date. We will email everyone the options for New Year's Eve celebrations once they're available, as well as other activities to do in Uruguay.

HOW LONG SHOULD I STAY IN URUGUAY?

We suggest you arrive at least two days before the wedding (Dec 30th), so for a better experience please make sure to arrange your schedule to be in Uruguay ideally, by Dec 27th or the 28th at the latest. Punta del Este is at its peak season until Jan 10th with lots of activities to do so, we encourage everyone to stay in Uruguay for about 7-10 days to make sure you get the full experience.

I NEED ASSISTANCE ORGANIZING MY TRIP. WHAT SHOULD I DO?

Please email us to allenandkatya@gmail.com and we can help you organize it!

MORE QUESTIONS?

If you have any further questions or concerns please email us at allenandkatya@gmail.com