On Friday night, I went with a group of friends on an Art Walk. They have a very similar thing in Denver, where on one night all the galleries open, and there was some Champagne, and many of the artists were in the gallery. We only went to a few galleries because it seemed like many weren't open. Certain places in the city are still closed down because of Gripe 'A' (swine flu), so we hope to venture out to this again sometime.
On Saturday, I went exploring the city by myself. I went to Argentina's version of the White House, which for them is the Pink House (Casa Rosada). When I took out my camera to take a photos, the screen flashed "Battery Exhausted", so still I have no pictures to share. I walked across the widest avenue in the world, Avenida 9 de Julio, which included either 3 or 4 medians. I only got about half way across, then I had to wait for the traffic lights to cycle through again so I could finish. Eventually, I stopped for lunch in the theatre district, where i ate pumpkin ravioli, garlic butter and bread, a glass of wine, and limoncello for all under US$5. I could have had dessert, a side dish, and meat instead of pasta for another US$1.50, but it didn't seem necessary.
I went home, quickly changed my clothes, then hopped in taxi for my very first Tango lesson. It moved very quickly, and sometimes I didn't understand the words, when they would explain something, but everyone was very helpful, and I hope to make this a regular event. I stayed for a short time after the lesson, and enjoyed some coffee, while I watched the advanced dancers practice. It was very inspiring.
Today, I enjoyed a rather tourist-y day in Buenos Aires. I met some friends at the famous and very beautiful cemetery where Eva Perón and other famous Argentines are buried. It is a labyrinth of tombs, where stray cats weaving around or basking in the sun.
In the same plaza as the cemetery, there was also a huge artisan market that takes place every sunday. There were so many wonderful things, and I did buy a few, but I continually reminded myself that I'll be here for 4 1/2 for months, so I'm sure I'll see a million beautiful things. At the artisan market, there was a huge puppet show going on, people doing acrobatics/trapeze work from the trees, I saw a mime, and some hilarious clowns. As the weather warms up, this will start to be more common in the streets, and I can't wait!
That about wraps up the weekend, but I'll write again soon!
To me, something you cannot miss is walking throughout Floreida Street. Architecture buffs will love the opulent, early 20th-century buildings that line this mile-long pedestrian mall, popular for its gem, leather and fur stores.
ReplyDeleteAll of the apartments in Buenos Aires I rented were near this street, because if you need anythig, whatever it is, you can find it there!
Kim