Some Places Haven't Lost It!

There are so many places that have lost it... we go go go, make it on time, get the job done -- and not saying this is bad at all. In actuality this is a main reason I chose Argentina-- it's hard for me to stand still (reference Footloose: click and check out the song stuck in my head) and this bustling city helps me do this, BUT what we Should Not lose during all of this commotion is basic tradition/manners.

In Argentina they have definitely not lost it. The main location I see this is on the colectivos and subtes (public busses and trains). I travel at least 2-4 hours every day on public transport (literally- because I live in Belgrano which is north, and most of the activities, other students, and schools are further south). I can probably count the times I have sat down on any form of transportation on 2 hands. This is because whenever there is an older person or woman standing, EVERYONE offers them their seat. Kind of refreshing at times. Somehow standing up on a bus and constantly bumping into people makes it pretty easy to meet people too -- it all works out!

CAFE'S

No one should really worry too much about all that standing though because over the past couple weeks I have probably sat, eaten, or drank tea/coffee in at least 40 cafes. I'm serious! There have been multiple days when we have spent 1-2 hours in a cafe, gotten up and walked 20 minutes just to find another one. It's amazing! I don't know how they are all successful with so many of them around.. Nevertheless I'm happy they're there! Most stops include some coffee, tea, empanadas, or a small hand-made sandwich. One thing I still have not done but plan on doing once I have a somewhat fixed schedule is finding a "regular" cafe around my house/schools. Then I can meet the workers and get to know the city and life through their eyes. Probably get some good recommendations too!  Some friends and I just started planning our trip to Mendoza in a couple weeks in a cafe that seemed like a big home with 3 floors. All the food was organic (which seems to be an increasing trend here like it is in the US and not badly priced) -- will definitely return!

My take away from Cafes: They're delicious, relaxing, and even though I like to be active all the time, this atmosphere can actually make us more efficient (because of the comforting atmosphere).