Today was our last day with our wonderful guide, Diego and driver, Mariano. They took us to see La Boca, an area near the river that was the site of the original inhabitants of the city and later immigrants. This is a poorer area of the city but attempts are being made to improve conditions. Many of the homes have been converted to shops and they are made of some of the materials available at the time of the first settlers (specifically remnants from the ships that brought them here). The stores and homes are very colorful (see below). Diego warned us that this area is fine during the day but not very safe at night. No problem with that, this gringo knows what’s best for him.
We also took a tour of the opera house which was absolutely magnificent. Unfortunately timing will not permit us to see a performance at this wonderful venue but that just gives us one more reason to return.
We also visited a book store that was previously a theater. This too was a work of art. Made me feel guilty that I read all my books on the Kindle.
Diego recommended that we have dinner at La Cabrera (The Goatherder). Interestingly the restaurant has 3 separate locations all within 100 steps of each other. All three were packed and could not seat us. We noted some empty tables outside one of the restaurants and they said we could sit there immediately. They had outdoor heaters (remember I am with Patrice) so we decided to seize the opportunity.
Our meal was amazing. We shared a steak and an order of potatoes with caramelized onions and both of us felt stuffed. We have learned not to ask for our steak medium but rather medium well. The meat arrived very pink and incredibly tasty. We have learned that the Argentinians are similar to the Spaniards in that they prefer their meat cooked so you can still hear the cow calling for its mother while you are eating. Medium is almost raw. Medium-well works for me. If you ask for Well-done they ask you to leave (the country).
Hasta luego,
Roberto
Robert Reiss Travel Blog and Other Ramblings 