Uruguay with Elderhostel

“Uruguay’s Colorful Birds and Gracious People” was a fine trip which my husband, Don, and I took with Elderhostel (11 Ave. de Lafayette, Boston, MA 02111; phone 877/426-8056 or visit www.elderhostel.org), Nov. 4-16, ’04.

Though we are not serious birders, this was a chance to get away from the cities and into the countryside, primarily the Department of Rocha with the Atlantic to the east and Brazil to the north. Lagoons, lakes, fishing villages and deserted beaches each had their own beauty. There were many birds to see, as well as flowers, historic lighthouses and forts and fantastic forests of ombu trees.

Our two leaders were outstanding. Naturalist Juan Carlos Gambarotti is a park ranger who is determined to keep his land unspoiled. He knows birds and lots more. Sonia Alvarez, an English teacher in Montevideo, was in charge of lodging, meals and arrangements in general. She was seeing much of the area for the first time and enjoyed it all with us.

A special word for Alberto Scapio, our trusty bus driver — he was not just the driver but the owner of the bus. He managed at all times the nearly impossible roads (trails?!), always with a smile.

Speaking some Spanish on this trip would be a definite plus, but English will do. The two of us paid $5,673 total, including security tax and round-trip air from Los Angeles.

We would be happy to answer questions. Call 626/798-9310.

— MARIE ADAMSON, Altadena, CA