A Long Goodbye

Even though I haven't left Buenos Aires for good yet, I feel as if I have already gone. I am taking a trip tonight to visit friends in La Plata that I made in Rio, while I leave my things in BA with a friend to pick up tomorrow. But already, I feel like a backpacker again, I no longer live in the city where I had made my life for the past almost 2 months.

Saying goodbye to a group of friends and a familiar place is never fun, but it was particularly difficult to say goodbye to, and leave the house of Elsa, the wonderful, caring lady who it was my honor to have as a host mother for the past 6 weeks. She doesn't speak any English, so our communication at first wasn't easy, but improved with my Spanish over time. By the end, we would talk freely about life, family, religion and politics. My brother's visit and wonderful time a week ago only increased the richness of the experience that I had with her in her home.

I'm leaving not only the style, comfort, and familiarity of her home, but also the company of countless porteños and foreigners who became great friends and companions. I enjoyed living in Buenos Aires and I hope I get the chance once again. The people are quite proud but very friendly as well, and I think they have reason to be both. That city is a vibrant mix of Europe and South America, with an abundance of cultural outlets paying tribute to each. The transportation options there were the easiest and cheapest I've ever encountered, and there are enough different and interesting neighborhoods to keep even the locals occupied every night. And, needless to say, the nightlife here rivals any of the best places in the world, as porteños rarely, if ever, sleep. Buenos Aires is one of a kind, don't miss out if you have a chance to go.


On the right, Elsa, my host mother, with her friend, Gosho, before going to a wedding with a ceremony at 10 p.m. and a fiesta to last until morning.