Montevideo, Uruguay, is recommended by Laurence Blair of The New York Times as one of the top travel destinations for 2024. Despite being South America’s most laid-back capital, Montevideo offers colonial architecture, bustling markets, and beautiful beaches, making it an ideal time to discover its subtle, easygoing charms during its 300th anniversary celebrations.

Among the tree-lined boulevards of Pocitos, Cordón, and Centro, shuttered neighborhood diners that once served simple Uruguayan fare are being lovingly restored as stylish yet affordable eateries. One such establishment is Pantagruel, a corner bar that preserved its midcentury furnishings when it reopened last year (try a glass of Tannat, Uruguay’s specialty wine.) Montevideo also hosts the world’s longest Carnival, with 40 nights of parades and block parties starting from January 25. It’s more affordable and family-friendly than Rio’s, yet no less glittery.