Monocle highlights Uruguay’s creativity, hospitality and cultural dynamism

Uruguay once again attracted international attention as Monocle profiled the country’s east coast, emphasizing how Punta del Este “reveals a destination shaped by creativity and quiet sophistication.” According to the piece, it is a place where “art and cinema thrive alongside refined hospitality,” drawing an international crowd to “a coastal haven where ideas flow freely and life feels full of opportunity.”

In José Ignacio, the magazine focuses on the strong connection visitors form with the area’s natural landscape and local community. Felice Kofler, manager of the 21-bedroom Posada Ayana, said that “immediately you feel at ease and connected to the place and the people.” She noted a growing trend of visitors choosing to settle or invest in the area: “Guests are becoming locals in José Ignacio,” she said, explaining that many are inspired to buy property. “There’s a lightness,” Kofler added.

Monocle also highlighted the country’s cinematic ambitions, led in part by the José Ignacio International Film Festival (JIIFF). Co-founder Fiona Pittaluga explained how the festival creates moments of shared cultural experience, where “Uruguayans make visitors feel near and included.” She described the atmosphere as one defined by “a combination of freedom and closeness.” The article also notes that year-round initiatives are attracting global streaming platforms to Uruguay, supported by public policy and generous tax rebates.
Uruguay’s Country Brand has supported JIIFF since its inception, recognizing its contribution to the nation’s international cultural presence.

In the visual arts sphere, Monocle showcased Laura Bardier, founder of the contemporary art fair Este Arte. Bardier established the platform to elevate the region’s artistic ecosystem, proving it is possible to create “a tailor-made model” and “a human-scale, sustainable and excellent art market” within Uruguay.

Like the film festival, Este Arte has been supported by Uruguay’s Country Brand from its early editions, helping strengthen the global visibility of Uruguay’s creative industries.

Through these voices and stories, the Monocle feature reaffirms Uruguay as a destination where culture, creativity and quality of life intersect, offering fertile ground for investment, collaboration and new ideas.

You can read the full article here Uruguay: Punta del Este - Monocle