COUNTRY: Argentina
PROGRAM: GapBreak
PROJECT: Care Work
WRITTEN BY: Madeleine Paradise
¡Hola de Buenos Aires!
The Argentine Nine are settling into the crazy Buenos Aires life slowly but surely. We arrived in a cold snap, enduring temperatures as low as 3degrees celsius, but by Wednesday, the sun was shining, and the weather was warm and welcoming. Wandering the city streets, we often forget where in the world we are. The city has a strong European influence in operation and architecture, but there are obviously some clear differences between our new home here in Argentina, and our homes back in Australia.
Language is the most obvious difference between our cultures. No matter how much Spanish we had learnt prior to departure (hint, not much), we were in for a shock upon arrival, finding the language quite intimidating. However, thanks to our Spanish lessons, and our bonita profesora; Yanina, we are overcoming this. After an entire week of lessons, we are all more comfortable with some Spanish basics; introductions, ordering food, and asking for our room keys. Determined not to let language be a road block to our enjoyment here, most of us are continuing lessons throughout the coming weeks, so our skills will only improve.
Another shock to the system has been what is known as "Argentime". The Argentinians' concept of time is warped. Dinner is rarely served before 10pm, and the idea of going out to enjoy the nightlife before 1am is loco.
Between lessons and jetlag, we've been able to explore Buenos Aires and have a little bit of tourist time. We've visited Floralis Genérica, a large metal flower in the heart of the city; had a cultural conflict when visiting Chinatown; and checked out the San Telmo markets in all their coloured beauty. We've already begun panning trips to Mendoza, Iguasu Falls, and, for some, Peru. There is so much on offer in South America, it is hard to wrap our heads around.
Our group is becoming a distinct unit here at Reina Madre Hostel, with new backpackers being warned of the loud Australians upon check-in... but we're pretty sure they just mean Cass. Arj has demonstrated his culinary expertise, dishing up a curry for us all last night, leading to the concept of a Sundays becoming Family Dinner Night. We're all still smiling, thanks to the help of our resident Kiwi, Britt, and her daily jokes, it's either these, or Lyndon's sharp wit. We're quite taken with the rooftop terrace here, finding it useful for all sorts of things. Dave, Bronwyn and myself attempted to study up there, but the sun was too seductive, and Spanish took a back seat to vitamin D. Issy's recent travels through Europe allow her to pick up languages and attempt communication with the locals with ease, this is a bit of a contrast to Beck's declaration during a call back home "I'm never going to be fluent, Mum."
We're all very excited to finally begin our placement this week. Wish us luck!
¿Donde es Lyndon?
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