Palermo is also located in Uruguay

There are many Italians in America - that has been known since 'The Godfather'. So there is also a neighborhood called Palermo here in Montevideo, but I haven't discovered much gelato and pizza here yet. The waterfront is called Rambla República Argentina.

Behind that is Punta Carretas, a nice walk, also with a 'beer garden' where there were empanadas with fish filling and a beer called 'Zillertal'.

Now something about practical travel matters: after 10 days at the latest, laundry needs to be done, which is usually taken care of in most hotels. Unfortunately not here - also because of Columbus. Yes, it is a long weekend - on October 12th, 1492, Columbus discovered America, which is celebrated in most countries in America and in Spain. The day was called 'Dia de la Raza' until the 90s, introduced in 1917 as the 'Day of the Race' (thank you for the hint!). Since the term 'race' is no longer appropriate, it is usually renamed, such as here in Uruguay as America Day or Columbus Day.

So no laundry service, but many things are so close. I'm off to find a laundromat, although the receptionist warned me - holiday. Just across the street is a relatively rundown shop, but 1A laundry service for 150 pesos, which is just 3.50€. The guy inside looked more like a biker, with a huge beard and was working on a washing machine. Speaking of facial hair: yes - mine is growing too - but the shaving cream is not empty yet! Yesterday a beggar approached me - I 'no comprendo' - 'oh I speak English - no problem', he described his life situation in almost perfect Oxford English and apologized for his beard and face. Well - I couldn't get away! his education had to be good for something - he was very grateful and walked away!