If you've travelled all over South America like I did, chances are you already know the breathtaking sights of many of its most renowned touristic attractions, from the natural beauty of Iguazu to mystic Machu Picchu, from Rio de Janeiro's open arms of Christ the Redeemer to those silent witnesses of the ages in Easter Island. But soon enough our travel catalogue seems tired and monotonic, like a re-run of the latest Indiana Jones movie. I personally call it "exoticism fatigue".
Enter Uruguay's José Ignacio. Distant enough from the frantic glamour of the big city to be a balsam of silence, where the gentle charm of this small town settlement on a rock is only disrupted by the embrace of the Atlantic, and omnipresent seagulls singing to the wind.
But I have found this small town allure to be deceivingly charming: as you fall in love for its sunsets, back horse-riding across its unspoiled sands, this is also a place where the most worldly of bon-vivants will find plenty to be thrilled about.
And how would you --dear 21st century bon-vivant-- love to befriend and be delighted on a daily basis by personal chefs who also happen to be your hosts and neighbours next doors?
I was thrilled to meet, dine, and hang out with Alejandra (the owner of CDL), who apart from being a brilliant host and a charming person (she even woke up in the middle of night at our request to provide extra blankets for our last-minute guests!) is also able to prepare for us some of the best dishes you will find anywhere in South America.
The lofts were more than comfortable enough for us, experienced chic eco-friendly adventurers, and the overall experience of living within walking distance from La Huella (that's one restaurant you *must* visit!) and just one block away from the beach makes for a combination that --I can't overstate this-- you owe it to yourself to experience asap. I know that I keep longing for that place where time stands still and being at peace with nature is not a dream but something as tangible as the pebbles and seashells we brought back with us. Don't miss.