Nov 1-14, 2016: Argentina

Nov. 1, 2016. Del Glaciar Libertador Hostel and Suites, El Calafate, Argentina.

• The boat trip was called off because of wind.  I had to hustle to get my money back and get a bus for El Calafate, but I made it, and five hours later: Argentina!

• First impressions: great roads, modern buildings, wooden structures (no more bricks), and completed structures (we are no longer in Bolivia, dear).  Also: much higher prices.  For example: about a ten percent surcharge on taking money out of an ATM.  Ouch!  But the hostel is reasonable (about $20 for a dorm bed), very clean and modern, all the fixings.

• Strolled down the main street, and had the obligatory Calafate ice cream (a berry similar to blueberries, but a bit smaller, more tart, and with more seeds).  I may get another one tomorrow.  They say if you have califate berries, you will return to El Califate...

• At the recommendation of one of the hostel workers, I ordered lamb at a nearby restaurant and was overwhelmed by the quantity and deliciousness of the lamb I was presented.  Barely able to finish it, but managed somehow.  Great glass of red wine, too.  I think the bill was for about $15, which was a steal (took a photo of the lamb). 

• Not much to see in the town, which is pretty much a main street with tourist shops, tour businesses, and restaurants.  Signed up for a standard tour of the Glaciar Perito Moreno - really the only act in town - for tomorrow.