Buenos Aires, Argentina

As I had to go on a work trip to the Ashoka office in Buenos Aires, Argentina (they really had to twist my arm to do this one ;) we decided to make a weekend of the trip. Buenos Aires is only a 2.5 hour flight away and Victor joined for the weekend and we had a great time in the beautiful,  yet really hot, city of Buenos Aires.  For all of those of you who have not yet had the chance to visit Argentina we highly recommend it. Buenos Aires is a cosmopolitan city with history, beautiful architecture, incredible food and marvelous shopping.



We also had the joy of seeing the city with locals, as Gaston and Maria are our good friends (Gaston and I work together at Ashoka).  They were the most generous of hosts and they not only showed us the city, but we spent the last day of our trip with them at their family house in the countryside for a BBQ.


Buenos Aires, or BA as the locals call it, is a very diverse city and has lots of different and unique neighborhoods.  While we were only there for a few days, we did a good job moving around and getting to see a great deal of the city.  Here are a few of the highlights.

La Boca: This is a vibrant and artsy neighborhood well known for the soccer team Boca.While it has become touristy over the years it is still a beautiful space and worth the visit. We came across these kids playing soccer.  You can see the "Boca" sign behind them.    

La Boca is also known for tango.  I have to say I am not sure how many Argentinians actually dance tango on a regular basis, but the country has a strong pride for the dance.  These tango dancers were on the street dancing in front of a restaurant, and they were quite good.  For those of you at our wedding, you will know that Victor has a special place in his heart for tango.  

Recoleta:  This is one of the oldest parts of Buenos Aires, and it has a very international and European air to it, with large beautiful facades to the buildings, large parks and elegant shopping and dining.  This part of town also boasts the Recoleta Cemetery, which is the most famous resting place in Argentina.  It houses the tombs of Evita Peron, most of Argentina's past presidents (and even a few dictators), as well as the founders of the country.  It is a beautiful space with large trees, winding pathways, and impressive sculptures.

               
 This is Evita's tomb


We spent the good part of an afternoon wandering the corridors of the Cementary. To finish off a wonderful day we went out to an incredible meal at Urondo Bar, which is a place Gaston and I had been to before when I was in Argentina for work in 2010.  I must say that the food in Argentina is incredible, and Urondo Bar is a little hidden treat.  While I sadly didn't get a photo of the meal, here is a screen shot of the location, and if you are ever in town I recommend a visit.

Puerto Madera:
This is the old port of Buenos Aires that has recently been renovated with new apartment complexes, some of the cities best restaurants and a office buildings.  It is a beautiful walk from Recoleta and you can walk along the waterfront.

We ended the weekend with a wonderful meal and afternoon with Gaston and Maria, eating yet again more Argentinian meet.  I must say we didn't mind at all. It was the perfect end to a wonderful weekend.  Thanks Gaston and Maria for being the best of hosts.

For those who haven't been... get yourself to Argentina, unless you are a vegetarian, and then I might think again.  

-Dessa and Victor

Luna: the "Cat" in this blog

As the blog title says, there is a cat in this family.  And funny as it may be, the majority of the comments that we have received thus far for the site have been people asking for "More Cat" in the blog.

So, as we are loyal to our followers (blog sarcasm here), you are going to get what you asked for.  I decided to document one day in the life of Luna, and share with you her amazing feats and accomplishments.  

Here goes:

Yep, that's it.  She certainly does lead a tough life.


Hope the week is going well.


-Dessa & Victor