Our First Stop in South America: Argentina
Tired of the Same Stories
Amid all the pandemic issue, I find it boring to log onto my social profiles because of the repetitive and negative posts. Therefore, I resort to writing for my blog or for Medium — a story teller’s site where I can read about other interesting topics as well. Don’t get me wrong, there are many COVID-19 topics in Medium, but so many more other stories to explore.
Today, I decided to take my brain to Argentina. I’ve never been to Argentina or hear much about it. I don’t personally know anyone living or from Argentina either. It piqued my brain when I realized that the wine I was enjoying was an Argentine Malbec red wine. So, I decided to do a little research.
Where is Argentina
Argentina is in the southern half of South America bordered by Chile, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. It is one of the largest countries in the world, home of the tango, and world-famous Argentine beef. But what is there to see and do in Argentina?
Buenos Aires
For starters, you can’t go to Argentina and not visit Buenos Aires, which is the cities capital, aka the Paris of South America. Buenos Aires streets are lined with stunning monuments, wide tree-shaded boulevards, parks, stylish architecture, cafes, restaurants, and bars. Of course, you need to sink your teeth into their famous juicy beef steaks while enjoying a fabulous tango show and drinking a local malbec.
Perito Moreno
You will also find the Perito Moreno Glacier which is in one of the largest national parks, “Los Glaciares National Park,” of Argentina. It’s the only glacier in the world that continues to grow as of February 2020 while others around the world shrink in size. While at Perito Moreno Glacier you can ice hockey, boat, hike or just sit down and enjoy the beauty of this gigantic breathtaking glacier. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981.
Wineries, Wineries, and More Wineries
If you’re a wine lover like me, you can’t miss the city of Mendoza, the heart of Argentina’s wine country. This is the place to visit if you’re looking for that perfect bodega for wine tasting. From Bodega Achaval-Ferrer Winery — one of the award-winning boutique vineyard; Norton Vineyards, Bodega Dante Robino, Bodega Tierras Altas, Familia Cassone’s, just too many to name them all — you will surely find one that suits your taste.
Devil’s Throat
Devil’s Throat in Iguazu Falls, a humongous U-shaped cascade located between the Brazilian and Argentine border, should be a part of your Argentine trip. At a drop of about 260 ft, Devil’s Throat is the largest waterfall curtain in the Iguazu Falls. There are many opportunities to visit the Devil’s Throat either by boat or on foot.
Cueva de las Manos
Cueva de las Manos (Cave of Hands) is a cave with prehistoric artwork dating back to 5,000 B.C. It is isolated in the valley of the Pinturas River in the Argentine Patagonia. There are other forms of interpretation of animals and human life. It is a peek into the lives of those who lived in the cave. The route to the cave is quite rough. But you can always access it with the help of an escorted tour.
Castillo Naveira de Lujan
The mysterious castle “Castillo de Naveira de Lujan” is a neo-gothic structure which began its construction in 1841. Its eccentric architectural beauty intrigues many who visit Lujan — a province of Argentina. Its mystery is what makes tourists want to visit this spectacular building. My understanding is that it’s closed to the general public but there are tours you can book. I too am interested in exploring this castle.
Aconcagua Mountain
Aconcagua, in the Andes mountain range of Argentina, is one of the highest mountains in the world. Its highest point is 22,841 ft. According to hikers, climbing the mountain is fairly easy. The altitude is what causes the biggest problem. Therefore, it is encouraged to take the hike with a team of experts which you’ll find plenty to choose from.
Argentina Has More to Than the Above
These are not even a quarter of the places to visit in Argentina. But they did pique my interest enough to research them and put them on my list. So tell me what’s your story? Have you visited Argentina? If so, what was your favorite place?
Originally published at http://travelerwows.com on April 10, 2020.
