Good air, heat and water

Buenos Aires, Argentina

 

With tears in our eyes, we had to say goodbye to the Zandaam.

After 20 days of pure stress-free luxury, we were ignominiously thrust back into reality. Our first sight of the city of Buenos Aires was from the very industrial looking port. Really no surprise when you arrive on a ship. Since we did not have to make any tight airline connections, we were at least able to delay our departure until we had a chance to partake of one last leisurely breakfast on board.

 

Our hotel was only about a 5-minute taxi ride from the cruise ship terminal, so we arrived way too early to check in. We were able to stow our luggage and do some preliminary explorations of the immediate vicinity, mostly in search of an ATM to get some local currency. Because it was Sunday, a lot of stuff was closed, although there were quite a few tourists about in the streets. Quite pleasant really

 

Yesterday, our first full day here, saw some record high temperatures in Buenos Aires, reportedly hitting 38 degrees. It certainly felt hot to us! In the morning we joined a free walking tour group for a few hours, ending up leaving us by the gates to the Cementario de la Recoleta (Recoleta Cemetary) where the biggest attraction is the grave of Eva Peron - a must-see for anyone visiting the city. After a couple of hours sitting in the shade at a nearby restaurant, we ventured inside. Pretty cool place, for a Cemetary.

Palace of Justice

 

My overall impression of Buenos Aires so far is very positive - I really like the disorganized hodge-podge of architecture and generally pedestrian friendly streets. I'm not sure Susanne is as enthusiastic - too hot perhaps?

Imagine Madonna in full voice

The world's widest avenue

 

Today, other than a quick trip to the nearest Starbucks for coffee and muffins, we have been holed up in the hotel, while the rain has been almost torrential (thus this opportunity to catch up on this blog). Tomorrow promises to be much less wet and no more extreme heat - should be a great day for further explorations.

 

{GMST}34|36|S|58|24|W|Buenos Aires, Argentina|Buenos Aires, Argentina{GEND}

 

 

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