The people of Argentina seem to really know how to have a good time. As much as I roll my eyes at their late night antics, it is pretty incredible to think about. When the sun goes down, these people come out! Every night, friends and families gather and simply play. Last night, in the park I was trying to sleep in, there were late night soccer matches, all-age volley ball games, picnicking and general goofing off until way past my bedtime. Even the little kids were out, sliding on slides, swinging, making sand castles, riding horses and chasing each other, well past midnight. The focus of this time doesn’t really seem to be a alcohol or other shinanagins, just enjoying each others company. It is amazing to watch whole communities interact like that. There were literally over two hundred people, simply enjoying themselves.
As I lay in my tent last night, feeling a bit over tired and miserable from the days heat, I realized what a slow learner I am. I am going to try harder to emulate them. It might mean not sleeping in city parks and missing out on some of their fun, but it will mean using the cool of the predawn to get my miles in. Then I will rest and be much better able to enjoy my afternoons.
Today was a big day. I traveled from Viele to Paraná, which is a big city on the Paraná river. Then I caught a bus through the tunnel under the river, because bikes weren’t allowed, and then I was disgorged in Santa Fe. My slow learning self thought that it would be a good idea to bike an additional 29 miles to a small town called Esperanza, in the full heat of the afternoon. 101 degrees. I will never do that again. It is hard to appreciate a country when I reach that level of misery, and I didn’t come this far for that. So, from now on-up at 5 and on my bike by 5:30 and try to make the most of the cool when it comes-like everyone else here does. I will embrace the siesta. What took me so long?
I’m glad some campgrounds have a Quiet Hour! It’s hard when people are having lots of fun at midnight and you’re trying to get to sleep! Do you have earplugs? You probably could hear the noise even still…
You go Leah!! Hooray for early, coolish mornings on the bike, and afternoon siesta plan! You are an inspiration. Keep on rolling…
I really enjoy your daily updates. While I sit here looking outside at a mixture of ice/snow all over my yard.. Thank you and safe travels.
So, is that enormous sandwich egg salad from the egg store in the other photo? Maybe you should buy some extra eggs and fry them on the blistering pavement. Please do your best to stay cool!!
You go girl! Make the best of what you got! We are all rooting for you!
The names seem so familiar–Santa Fe, Cordoba–all obviously from Spanish origin. And that river, wow, so expansive-at least from the photos I saw online. Do I see those mountains way out west in your future? Following…Steve
I really enjoy reading your entries. Glad you are having fun! Great adventure Leah!
enjoying your trip and your learnings!
wondering if you’ll be wandering around the island
when you come back during later evening hours
gathering crowds for nighttime entertainment. 🙂
Leah, sounds hot but rewarding, thanks for sharing your trip, best of luck as you move on toward your goal.
I had to get caught up but I have enjoyed your posts. What an amazing experience! Thank you for sharing.
We’re catching up on your trip and enjoying every bump and adventure you are having. We had some 100+ degrees days on a cross country bike trip a few years ago and can sympathize with you. Hang in there.