When we left Chile, we jumped on a bus towards Argentina. If you have time, the big buses are a very comfortable way to travel. They typically have two classes of seat, with the upper class being larger fully reclining seats, with power plugs privacy curtains and the works. Whichever class you choose, it is still quite affordable.
Our route from Santiago Chile to Mendoza Argentina took us up and over the Andes via the famous switchback roads that climb their way up and down the mountains. There was a brief stop (maybe 30 minutes in line) at the border, and we were back on the bus. All in all, the trip took 8 hours and was easily the most amazing bus trip we have even been on.
Mendoza Argentina is famous for it the wine regions surrounding it, and specifically for the somewhat fruit forward Malbecs that are particular to this region. Out day tour to the into the region was quite affordable (about $35 per person).
The tour guides on the bus were a lot of fun, and we visited three wineries and an olive oil press. All in all, a very fun and entertaining day.
We were very excited to try out the famous Argentinian beef, so while we were in Mendoza we booked an evening for a traditional BBQ (or asada as they call it) on a rooftop deck. It was a combination cooking class, cultural orientation and wine tasting. Our host Francisco was delightful, and the evening was huge success.
From Medoza, we rented a car and drove to Cordoba for on night and then Rosario for a night before making our way to Buenos Aires. Driving in Argentina is relatively easy once you get used to the network of mostly one-way streets and the lack of traffic lights. Traffic here is governed by the “rule of rights”, at any intersection, the car coming from your right side has the right of way. This works most of the time, although defensive driving is highly recommended. One final note on the car rental, the daily rate was low, but the one way drop fee was much higher than we expected. All in all; still cheaper than flying and we got to see a lot of the country.
Buenos Aires bills itself as the most beautiful city of Latin America and it is lovely. We settled into an air B&B with a funky bohemian style to it. We spend the better part of two months exploring the town from our base in the lovely neighborhood of Palermo. We have enjoyed the weekend markets of SOHO, the beautiful parts and Polo grounds and of course the street parties during Carnival.
Next week we jump on a cruise ship to start our 17-day journey to Spain. We have found that repositioning cruises are an excellent (and affordable) way to travel overseas without the jetlag and discomfort of a long-haul flight.