Live from Montevideo!

Ok, Ok. I know it's been more than a while, but I've finally gotten my act together and am ready to regale you with our escapades from south of the equator.

The purpose of my blog is two-fold: I want to keep friends and family in the States updated on our new life, as well as provide a lighthearted source of information to expats in Montevideo who may be as befuddled as we are!

Our first few months have been spent dealing with mundane matters like renting an apartment, beginning the residency process, setting up and figuring out how to pay our utilities, honing our communication skills, etc. In other words, learning the little nuances of everyday life in a new country. It's all quite overwhelming and can, at times, be a full time job.

Is this a luxury hotel in Montevideo? Nope, it's our new home (at least until next April.) Torres Nauticas is a complex of 3 high rise apartment buildings in Pocitos situated one block from the Rambla. The complex has 24 hour security, a small market on the property and is located directly behind Montevideo Shopping (one of the big malls in town.) Our apartment (on the 19th floor) is 66 square meters in size, which by all accounts is pretty darn small. But we have everything we need and are growing accustomed to the close quarters (at least I am!)

We chose this apartment building because of the modern conveniences it provides. I have a washer/dryer combo -- dryers are extremely rare in Uruguay. Most people hang laundry to dry outside their apartment windows or in the lavadero (laundry room with an open window and implement to hang wet clothes.) We have the benefit of the laundry room and the dryer. The apartment also has a dishwasher (which I have yet to use as it is located in the lavadero!) The unit has radiant floor heating and air conditioning in the living room and bedroom (heat and air conditioning are also rare.)

Now, it's time to run to the market for my daily shopping (and a cappuccino!) Needless to say, I am happy to be back in the blogosphere. I look forward to sharing our journey and hearing your comments. Stay tuned.

Ciao!

Contact

Services

English to English "Translation"
Are you pleased with the Spanish to English translation of your message, but still think it lacks the "edge" that will appeal to your English-speaking North American audience? Not to worry! We hone the rough edges and polish your words into an impactful, succinct message -- one that speaks to your clients like never before! All without giving up the unique content and feel of your original communication. Let us provide the finishing touches to your content. It's like the icing on the cake with a cherry on top!


Wordstead Express
My goal is providing you with low cost, high quality writing (including, but not limited to: website content, advertising copy, essays, newsletters, B2B collateral, catalog copywriting, rewriting projects) and proofreading. To view my writing, go to eHow and Livestrong.com. In the "Search" box, simply type in 'Linda Chechar' for a list of links to my latest articles!




Photography
Funky, insightful images suitable for framing.
Coming soon: gallery of works

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FAQ

What is the purpose of your blog?
To share my experiences as a US expat living in Uruguay. More importantly, I want to provide useful information to residents regarding daily life in the capital city of Montevideo.

Do you review restaurants?
Yes. I will be reviewing local restaurants as a service to my readers.

Will you tell me the best places to shop in Montevideo?
I will indeed! This is a subject near and dear to my heart and I feel obligated to share my shopping tips for those who are new to the city.

Are you a directory?
No. Do we really need another boring directory? I will, however, include pages and blogs with necessary newcomer contact information (local businesses, healthcare providers, utilities, internet/cable providers, and the like.)

What blogging platform do you use?
I use Blogger and the Minima template.

Do you accept paid ads for local businesses?
I probably will at some point. I would like this blog to be the "go to" location for concise, helpful information on enjoying life in Montevideo. I would like to introduce businesses to an untapped audience.

Can you tell me about your photography?
I am expanding my portfolio and plan to exhibit and make my photos available for purchase in the near future. My work focuses primarily on architectural elements and common items seen in a fresh and personal light. It's fun, kind of irreverent, familiar and edgy at the same time! How's that for a description?

Will you consider and use unsolicited reviews and comments about businesses in Montevideo?
By all means! Leave a comment and I take it into consideration. If I use the information, I will give credit where credit is due.

Do you promote events, businesses or restaurants if you receive a press release from a publicist?
Absolutely.

Do you provide any other services?
I am also a freelance writer tackling everything from website content to travel articles. Check out the "Services" tab for details on this and our translation "tweaking" assistance.

Author

Linda, like many of us, was all too set in her ways. She thrived on the familiar -- people, surroundings, daily routine and life in general. Possessions were like children to be bragged about and shown off. She imagined her existence would somehow always be within the boundaries of this insulated and comfortable world. Then life suddenly and irrevocably changed. The collapse of her small business, the housing crash and a chance meeting with a stranger would transport Linda, her husband and their small dog to a place where nothing would ever be the same.

"Toto, I've a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore!" -- Dorothy, from "The Wizard of Oz"

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