Because: I suffered the worst sunburn of my life in Punta del Diablo. We’re talking swelling, blistering, peeling (I was notpicking up any surfers that trip) some-medical-degree-of-burns burn on my face, feet, backs of knees and in between. It was so painful I had trouble sleeping. Luckily, Punta del Diablo was beautiful and tranquil and charming such that I could hold it together. Here’s my piece on the place, though I also should have penned a sidebar on how bad Uruguay can toast you.

So, go to Uruguay. It’s beautiful. But, wear sunblock. Always. Reapply every 10 minutes. Bathe in it.