Carlos Paz

When we decided to go to Carlos Paz for our day off, the first we could really enjoy without rain or sickness, we had to ask Samuel how to get there. He explained the bus situation, and then made sure to add, "Know that you will be disappointed."

What he was referring to was that we weren't to get our hopes up. Rightly so, as it's mainly a summer tourist attraction. All of the catamarans and water sports places were vacant, the water of the main river, Río San Antonio, mostly dry. We didn't mind too much though, as we really just wanted an excuse to leave the city and be on our own a bit more. Additionally, how can one not want to spend a day away, in the sun, for a mere 21AP (the equivalent of 5 or so USD)?

Granted, it wasn't until after Sarah and I returned that we were exposed to the realities of the ozone hole directly above where we live. We were also informed of its dangerous affects which are felt most between the hours of 11am and 2pm. Pretty much the time we were walking around. Argentinians have more than one reason for the blessed siesta.

The day began by walking along the river to get to the mountain, or the Sierras, view. The Sierras are only a taste of the Andes, so it's probably best to call them foothills.

Along the way, this guy on the right started to follow us. We figured he would back off, but were very much mistaken. It wasn't until about 10min later, and climbing a wall, that we got rid of him. Or so we thought. He found us on our way back!

Here's my favorite shot. The foothills reminded me so much of my view driving to work when I lived with the Banichs. Oh how I miss not only that family, but also the amazing view of God's creation. I think after living in Colorado, I was spoiled, and I must live within close proximity to the mountains for the rest of my life. Neither here nor there though, I suppose.

We continued on, and had more interesting sights of the city. As a local told me, Carlos Paz is the Las Vegas of Argentina, and many important people of the país perform shows here, close to the many casinos. I dunno though, it felt either more like a Reno or a trying-to-hard-to-be-like Lake Tahoe. It's much smaller than Las Vegas, and the buildings themselves have a lot of 50s/60s appeal--similar to the Frank Sinatra influence over the Lake Tahoe area. Once again, personal commentary that doesn't really matter.

The main thing, I had a lot of fun, and don't regret our few hours just walking around, seeing some cool sights, and getting my glimpse of mountains to sustain me for the next day trip (not for a few more weeks, but still). There were a lot of simple God moments too, such as finding the right bus, getting where we needed to go, getting to rest. Oh, and seeing the coolest costume ever:

Oh I wish I were a dulce de leche alfajore, that is what I truly want to be!