With a population of 15 million, not only is Buenos Aires by far the largest city in the country, but also, the second largest city on the continent, second to São Paulo (21 million). Somehow we ended up in five of the six largest cities in South America on this trip! Pretty funny for a family who isn't particularly fond of cities. We ended up having great experiences in all of them.
Daddy booked the perfect apartment for us in the Puerto Madero neighborhood with a view of the famous pedestrian bridge, Puente de la Mujer, and only a 15 minute walk to the Costanera Sur nature preserve. Upon arrival, we were confused when the doorman walked us to the elevator, handing us keys and only said, "piso siete" (7th floor). But what room number? We asked and he just shook his head and pointed to the elevator. When we arrived on the 7th floor we understood. The elevator door opened and revealed a 2ftx2ft space before the only door. The key opened the door to our apartment. Interesting! Here I'm inside the elevator as Daddy is unlocking our door.
And check out the view from our balcony!!!
There are multiple channels running inland from the coast, and we were staying between two of them on Olga Cossettini. Each night we'd walk along the water and admire the lights and boats as we decided on which of the many restaurants to stop for dinner. Most have outdoor dining areas along the water.
This bridge, called Puente de la Mujer, is famous. The bridge swings to one side when a boat needs to pass. Unfortunately we didn't get to see it swing, but we did see one in the next channel do it. In the middle of 6pm traffic, bells chimed, and gates lowered before the bridge lifted and separated on one end, then it swung to one side until the channel was completely clear. After the boat passed, it quickly returned back to normal. Bikes and motorcycles had wiggled to the front with cars filling in the lanes behind.
The above is a REALLY fancy restaurant we happened to stop at for dinner right as it was opening. We should have known when they asked if we had a reservation, but it wasn't until after they brought fancy "wine bottles" of water that we saw the menu. I did the currency conversion and realized this place was the most expensive restaurant we've ever been. Edamame was $25, and a single sushi roll, $40! Yikes! While some may have felt too embarrassed to leave, I am not concerned with what people who I will never see again think of me, so we told them I wasn't feeling so well (which was true after seeing the menu, haha!) and we found a place that was more us.
Something you should know about Argentina is that dulce de leche (caramel) is a major staple! This is the dulce de leche section, multiple brands and varieties. They put it on all kinds of stuff. Love it! And if you want to make an epic sandwich, check out this loaf of bread! It's no match for a toaster!
One day we walked to the San Telmo neighborhood for an early dinner and to walk thru the street fair that happens every Sunday. It's a combination of flea and artisan market, and quite large. The architecture in the area was very interesting, with intricately carved stone, and metal balconies overlooking the busy streets below.
We found a sushi go round!!! Happy people!
On our walk home, we stopped by the Plaza de Mayo, where we saw the Casa Rosada (Pink House). This is the official executive office of the President of Argentina. It's also where Evita Perón gave her famous final speech.
