MesoMag Volume 3
Volume 3 | August 20, 2024
Welcome to our monthly digest, straight from the heart of the Mesosphere, where we explore the hidden world of Latin culture to help us elevate our minds, find ourselves as humans, or just have some fun while we’re high.
Each month, we curate a selection of captivating content, stories, and culture that we believe captures the spirit of Latin culture.
This month's featured content focuses on places, politics, and music in Uruguay.
The Timeless Charm of Cabo Polonio
A Perfect Summer Retreat
Inhospitable and lost in time, without streets or electricity, Cabo Polonio in Uruguay offers a unique vacation experience. The 12 seconds of darkness that inspired Jorge Drexler's song of the same name highlight the charm of this place—where the century-old lighthouse briefly illuminates the surroundings in an otherwise star-filled night sky, untouched by electric light due to legal restrictions on generators.
Despite the darkness, Cabo Polonio's geographical position means summer nights don't fall until around 9 PM, allowing for perfect oceanside days. The true allure lies in renting a seaside house with a porch, where you can spend long evenings with friends, sipping chilled white wine and watching the day linger, creating epic summer memories.
Thank You, President Mujica
Uruguay's Humble Head of State
José Mujica, Uruguay’s president from 2010 to 2015, is known for his progressive reforms and humble lifestyle. Legalizing marijuana, same-sex marriage, and advancing labor rights, Mujica transformed the nation. Living in a modest farmhouse, driving a 1987 Beetle, and donating 90% of his salary to NGOs, his life reflects his values.
At 89 years old, Mujica remains a symbol of resilience and simplicity, dedicating his life to Uruguay’s betterment. Despite spending 12 years in prison, 11 in solitary confinement, Mujica’s story is one of endurance and unwavering commitment to his ideals.
Jorge Drexler—The Poet of Sound
Uruguay's Musical Genius
Jorge Drexler is a renowned Uruguayan musician and songwriter known for his poetic lyrics and innovative musical style. Born in Montevideo in 1964, Drexler initially pursued a career in medicine, specializing in otolaryngology. However, his passion for music led him to shift paths and dedicate himself entirely to his art.
He released his first album, "La Luz que Sabe Robar," in 1992, and has since become a prominent figure in the Latin music scene. Drexler's talent has been recognized globally, earning him numerous accolades, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song for Al Otro Lado del Río from the film "The Motorcycle Diaries." This milestone made him the first Uruguayan to win an Oscar.
That song we mentioned above? Give it a listen.
MesoBites
🥪 Chivito is a popular Uruguayan sandwich (and the country’s national dish) made with beef, ham, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and a fried egg, often served with fries. This is the ultimate munchies slayer any time of day. Add pickles or sauces to customize it however you like.
👻 Located in the Xochimilco canals near Mexico City, the Island of the Dolls (Isla de las Muñecas) is adorned with thousands of dolls, placed by the late caretaker Julian Santana Barrera to appease the spirit of a drowned girl.
🎉 On August 25, Uruguay celebrates its independence from Spanish and Portuguese colonial rule, achieved in 1825. The day is marked with festivities that start in the afternoon and continue into the night, especially in Montevideo, where celebrations can last until the early hours.
🤸🏾♀️ Rebeca Andrade, Brazil's most decorated Olympian, added another gold medal to her collection at the Paris 2024 Olympics, winning the women's floor title. She has six total medals in her three Olympic appearances.
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