Argentina that is not Buenos Aires

El Calafate

19.02.2011 - 20.02.2011 19 °C

Today is Sunday. Normally at this time I would be sitting in church listening to a sermon. But this morning I sat lazed out on a comfy leather sofa as the soothing Spanish tunes played out in the background. Che Lagarto certainly one of the best hostels I´ve stayed in during my travels; I dare say it is even better than a budget hotel/motel for a fraction of the price.

El Calafate is a very touristy town. As I took a stroll in the town center, I can´t help noticing that the prices of food are distinctively higher and the exchange rate for USD-Argentine Pesos is slightly poorer compared to Buenos Aires. The main Avenida de Libertador is littered with tourists speaking in their mother tongue. Having said that, this remote little town has certainly earned its stripes as a top tourist destination for all the right reasons.

Even though I didn´t have a window seat, as I was flying into El Calafate yesterday I managed to catch a glimpse of its magically astonishing landscape. From my limited view I Could see snow capped mountaines with Rivers snaking in between forming lakes with the bluest waters I have ever seen. The cloudless skies with glorious sunshine made the jacket redundant even on a reported 10 degree Celsius temperature.

My fairytale impression of El Calafate was confirmed the moment I hit the ground running. This quaint little town was indeed built on the foundations of tourism. Outside of the town area lie only vast spaces of flatlands, bodies of water, and highlands. After checking into my hostel yesterday, I set out to explore the town. Coincidently, there is an ongoing celebration of the 134th anniversary of the founding of Lago Argentina. The municipality had organizad a list of events happening in the town including a fun fair on the main avenue as well as a stage concert for all to enjoy.

As I took in the sights and sounds, I felt relaxed. I didn´t have to be worried about being mugged or anything of that sort. The tranquil atmosphere felt like paradise. In the next days I will be doing a glacier hike and visiting El Chalten which should be fun. I´m not sure why but the moment I left Buenos Aires I had a feeling of melancholy. I miss all my loved ones and new friends I have made. Shin Yee if you´re reading this, I am thinking of you.

Posted by jtiew 20.02.2011 12:16 Archived in Argentina Tagged argentina el calafate lago