Blog Archives
All good things pass through The Mouth
Although named because of its location at the mouth of the river, it could just as easily owe its name to the entrance of one of the most revered of the senses – taste. The senses are truly delighted by the music, the colour and the spectacle of La Boca. Yes, it’s a haven for tourists and it’s changed the nature of the area somewhat, but there are still small pockets of delight for even the most tourist-weary traveler. It has its allure. Come, relax, sit back with a fine glass of Malbec, and drink in the show. I recommend avoiding the tourist buses. Take a fairly short walk from San Telmo down through the back streets of La Boca to see the other side of this ‘barrio’ (neighbourhood).
Muerte y Gloria
Death and Glory… never captured quite like in the mausoleums of Cementerio de la Recoleta.
Inside the cemetery lies row after row of memories, chronicling the lives, histories and accomplishments of the dearly departed.
Forget Madonna, this woman captured the hearts of many of the local ‘Porteños’. Starting from humble beginnings, she went on to become an outspoken first lady of Argentina, marrying the President Juan Peron. She won the respect of many, for her tireless campaigning on behalf of the poor and for the rights of women. Unfortunately her tale is a sad one, as the military didn’t agree with the dictatorial style of her husband and staged a coup. She was just 33, the same age as me now, when she passed away from cancer. If you get the chance, definitely head to this famous cemetery in Recoleta, Buenos Aires for a few hours of reflection and respect.
Check out more photos online at the 2011 gallery
On waking in Buenos Aires
It’s about the third day of travel when it sets in…
Australia Day… again
Falling for Foz
Foz de Iguaçu – over 275 waterfalls all in one glorious place
From Salvador the Brazilianaire decided to catch a plane down to the south of Brazil to visit its world-famous waterfalls. The Foz de Iguacu is an impressive set of waterfalls that hug the Brazilian and Argentinean border. Most tourists are hard up trying to decide which side is better, but each has its advantages. The Argentinean side gives you a great close-up experience of a number of the falls, some decent boat-rides and the chance to lose about 5kg from the day of walking. The Brazilian side shows you the full picture of the falls and you get a better idea of how impressive it is, as well as the chance to get REALLY wet with a boatride into the largest part of the falls.
At Foz de Iguacu I met two couples who were really cool – Angie (Peru) and Aidan (Australia), and Alex and Jack (both from the UK). I ended up travelling on further with Angie and Aidan and we shared an apartment at our next stop in Florianopolis.
Travelers Tips:
Stay at the Paudimar Campestre just outside of town for a great youth hostel with a good atmosphere! Discounts for Hostelling International members…
Tales of The Brazilianaire 