HotelChatter

Conrad Punta Del Este Resort and Casino

This hotel served as the backdrop during the  "zips or chips" challenge (the one where they had to rappel across a high wire or play roulette) and was referred to by host Phil as the "Blue and White" hotel.  While it looked sleek and stylish, it did appear that it was in an area that looked very "resorty".  You know, one of those areas we all would refer to as the "Gold Coast", but you can't get any sun past 10 am because an ominous shadow is cast on the beach by the towering hotels.  We could be wrong, of course.

On the other hand, the "Blue and White" did look like a great place to throw down, if you like gambling.  Furthermore, Conrad does have some amazing properties, and this looks to be one of them.  Did you check out those overhead shots (on Amazing Race)...wow!

Casa Pueblo

(Using my best host Phil New Zealand accent) The pit stop for the first leg of the race is Casa Pueblo, a one of a kind Uruguain homestead.  This place looked incredible.  The Gaudi style property served as artist Carlos Vilaro's beachfront home, and it appeared to be on a peaceful, beautiful stretch of the South American coast.  Rumor has it the sunsets here from the top deck are tres bueno.

Couldn't find a website for this property (let me know if you find one), but here is the phone number (00598-42-578041)

Tune in to HotelChatter next Wednesday, and every Wednesday during the Amazing Race, as we will continue to report on the lodging options you see on the show.  

Haven't finished watching episode one yet, so don't tell us who is eliminated!

More Info on Casa Pueblo.