Hi Himandher,
Like you, many expats who have made the move to less developed countries and find it hard to adjust end up moving to the Punta del Este area.
As Uruandy states above, the life-style is indeed European, although with various differences, of course. Punta del Este is not 100% Uruguay, because of it´s predominantly foreign population led by Argentines and including people from all over the world. Being in the "new world", Europeans will notices less emphasis on tradition, which can be refreshing in a way, or unnerving in others, that is for each person to decide.
Regarding wheelchair access, we lag when compared to first-world countries, but I can report that the subject has gained the awareness and action of local governments, so things have been improving steadily since not too long ago and are bound to gain pace.
Regarding the price of housing, mentioned by residenceuruguay, well, there´s is a very broad range, depending on location and type of home. For many foreigners who don´t care what area is "in vogue," there are many good deals to be had in land, houses or apartments. Often, expats with a good eye for capital appreciation decide to invest in real-estate, beyond their housing needs, but that should be left for when one really understands the place.
The winters are indeed quiet, but not from a social standpoint, as the growing number of year-round residents keep things busy, from cultural events to simply gatherings of English speakers at various places.
See our blog for a picture of what life entails in Punta del Este, and what kinds of people make their home here.
The Working Holiday Visa for Uruguay
Being Vegetarian in Uruguay
