Hot Days in BA! (Part 1)

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I decided to split my Buenos Aires stay into two blogs after doing and seeing so much during the four days I had there.

After a very long and uneventful flight, I arrived to a hot and sunny Buenos Aires admist chaos at the airport. I eventually was transferred to my hostel near San Telmo although I had to hang around until my room was ready. However, while waiting, I had an opportunity to do some exploration in the barrio and get used to using the subte (metro) for the first time. Mission accomplished! After going to an ATM to get some money, I was able to settle in my room and after the first day, I was ready for some action!

Centro

I visited the Plaza de Mayo. The square is renowned for its political demonstrations and activity including "Madres de La Plaza de Mayo" movement. I noticed the flags and banners from the Malvinas veterans who are determined to claim the Islas Malvinas (Falkland Islands) being Argentine! I had a look at the Casa Rosada and had a little peek inside. I took in the statues, La Caterdral Metropolitana, the Cabildo and soaked in the atmosphere. I noted that the statues had grafitti on them and it is felt that the square could do with some minor renovations. However, apart from this, it was nice visiting and taking in the atmosphere! I then moved on to the Avenida de Julio via the infamous Cafe Tortoni where I had an expensive but delicious milkshake. Visiting the cafe is worthwhile for the nostalgia and experience. I had a look at their tango hall where nightly shows are held. I admired decor and it is the oldest cafe in Buenos Aires attracting artists and celebrities, past and present! As I was leaving, the queues were beginning to form so I visited at the right time!

I had a quick look at the Congress building. Such an impressive building with the Greek and Neoclassical architecture. I also braved the 9 de Julio with its many lanes!!! At first, I felt a bit intimidated crossing the road but soon you get used to it. However, the traffic lights do not give you much time to cross the many lanes! I was practically running!!! I saw the Obelisco, site of the first hosting of the Argentine flag, which is so high up and impressive. However, I did not see the Teatro Colon because the building was covered due to renovation works.

I wandered along BA's "Broadway", Avenida Corrientes. I noticed that "Phantom" had been playing at the Opera until November last year. I took respite on a couple of occasions at the Galleries Pacifico and once to one of the cinemas on Calle Florida and Lavelle respectively to escape from BA´s heat.

I also wandered through BA's financial district and Plaza San Martin. I stopped at the Malvinas Memorial and I feel no matter what feelings and people have about the Malvinas (Falklands) issue, it is so sad to see so many lives lost during the conflict. A poignant reminder. I also checked the Torre Monumental on the other side of the square. I knew that the tower had been closed for refurbishment, from what other travellers said. However, it has been reopened now as some sort of museum. I took the opportunity to relax in the square and sought refuge under the trees and the shades in between sightseeing.

Meeting up with the Porteños!

One evening, I met up with Ronnie and Mario, Russ and Trish's friends in Belgrano. Ronnie invited me for dinner so I got the metro up to Olleros. Ronnie made a wonderful meal and we had a wonderful evening. It was interesting to know what life is like from a resident´s point of view and we had interesting conversations on various topics and issues especially travel!!! A big thanks to Russ for making this possible!

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