I made the trip back to Tigre again this past weekend. But it ended up in a weird mish-mash of communication as a big group of us were originally planning to go, then Leo said he couldn't make it, and then Helena said that if he wasn't going then she wasn't, and so the others were coming because of her... I was still going though and in the end Leo decided he was going to be able to make it... Yeah, see where this is going?
And it may have been for the best as it turns out the rain from last week was still hanging around on the ground and making a mess of things. But, that didn't stop us from getting stuff done! First things first though... we had a new guest in the village. Svenja is from Germany and randomly saw our post up on Couchsurfing.com and decided to come visit with us for the weekend. Sweet! New friends rock!
We needed to have someone watch over us for good luck. Actually, I figure that we needed someone to make sure we kept working and kept a good attitude while at it... So why not Budda! (I think the thing next to him is our super-secret Dharma Initiative Decoder ring.)
Well, we wasted no time this weekend. One of the hard things about sustainable living is fresh water. At current we have to purchase water at the little store on the island or carry it in on the boat from the mainland. Not too cost effective and it gets really annoying lugging that stuff around. And even when you are conscious about your usage and go with the bare minimum you still use a lot! Oi! So, our first major project was to set up the water-collection system, cistern, and get it hooked up to the house. There was previously a pump bringing water up from the river, but it burned out and the setup wasn't quite as good as it should have been. As a result, a lot of things from the back end such as plumbing inside the house and the elevated tank were already set up for us. Our plan was to set up a collection unit on the roof, filter it, and have it piped into the 1000 L cistern that Leo just so happened to have lying around the place. Of course, sounds much easier than it ended up being!
The roof was covered in corrugated tin and has only one slope, so our placement was pretty much chosen for us. But the sheet metal actually did us some good and made our job easier. Cutting down the length of a 3" (I have no clue what size it is in metric) PVC pipe allowed us to spread it enough that it "bit" the edge of the roof and the corrugations made natural openings for the water. We then used the tops of a 1.5L soda bottle for each end and used some mesh to filter out any large debris that makes it into the gutter. Hmm... just realized that there aren't any close ups. Just close shots of my feet.
Me taking a break while Leo takes his time doing something down below...
Trying to get the tank down to the river to wash it out (Remember: we don't have running water yet...)
Slacker making us do all the work...
HA! Your turn now!
Fran y Svenja
It turns out that we had run out of gas for the stove so Leo went to the store and lugged a new one back. Of course after all of that he was unable to get the plug out so it was up to me to get it out with mallet and screwdriver.
(Insert photo of mass explosion and letters being sent off to weeping families.)
Randomly good shot of me explaining some idea or another...
While leo and I were working outside, the ladies used their powers of design and good taste to brighten up the house a bit. Don't ask me where he got them from but Leo had brough a massive bag of random bottles of nail polish. And not just your normal, "appropriate for work" colors but rather your "Lola's getting herself a man!" type of colors. Their canvas: the bathroom door. Their subject: a Swan/Peacock thingy.
And of course, after a long, hard day of work, we needed to refuel. Leo wanted pizza, but I haven't seen a Pizza Hut, Dominos, Papa John's or even a Little Caesars since I came here! Now problem though, Campfire pizza! We made up some quick bread, let it rise, threw it in some circular pans Leo happened to have, cooked them up, sautéed some veggies, added some tomato sauce, and threw in some cheese to melt. Once everything was ready:
YUM! A great end to a long day. But Leo had more ideas in mind... Tomorrow: Cleaning up all of the bottles and trash under the house! *Sigh* No rest for the weary...
Monday, November 15, 2010
Friday, November 12, 2010
Tigre
It turns out that one of our new friends, Leo, here in Baires (new to me) has some land in Tigre, an island suburb north of the city. He's been working on the place and said that we could come stay for the weekend if we would help him out with some things. Score!
In order to get to our destination we need to take the Subte to Retiro station, the train from there to Tigre, and then the shuttle Ferry to the island where Leo's place is. We meet up with him and another friend, Fran, outside the train station up there, get our tickets, and jump on the boat.
The weather was better than perfect (sorry you guys, "winter" down here is the best time of year!) and while the ride was about an hour long, it was plenty enjoyable.
There was a fair or some sort of amusement park on the side of the water... we didn't get too good a shot of it. Sorry. But you can also see that there are a lot of old, run down ships just sitting out there in the water. Go ahead and grab one!
Once we got out of the main waterway though things were starting to look much more peaceful and it actually reminded me of where I used to live in Venice, FL mixed with more nature. Already loving this place!
So, yeah, those pictures do the area no justice. How can you portray that feeling of pure relaxation? After the dock we walked a little ways through the trees to where his land actually sits. Turns out that the island has a lot of houses that people rent out to vacationers for weekend and the such. But Leo has a little bit of a different idea. Let me show you...
As you can see this is not your normal weekend getaway! Leo is a bit of an 'Eco-nerd' and has the idea to create a sustainable community on his land where people can come to work and learn strategies for sustainable management. Staying there is totally free, he just asks the participants to contribute to the community either through donations (money, equipment, supplies, knowledge) and/or by working on the property while there. At current it is still in the development stages but it turns out that was one of the reasons he wanted us to come up... to see if we could get things kick started. And boy, did we! We got the camp site under control, did a bunch of work on both the inside and outside of the house, and laid down plans for future trips back such as trails and clearings in the back pasture, an organic garden, compost pile, rainwater collection unit and cistern, solar water heating unit, and more... all using recycled materials! Leo has a great many very cool ideas for this place...
(This is our improvised door handle...)
The cabin itself is quite small, but when you are looking to get off the grid, small is good!
Along with the ideas that he has for the property, Leo is wanting to network with other likeminded groups and help to spread the ideas and knowledge of sustainability as far as possible so please check out his blog: echo-village.blogspot.com (much of it is in Spanish, but there is some in English and you'll find some great information) or check out the Facebook group "Echo-Village." I am headed back there in just a few minutes to spend another weekend of relaxing work. I hope that everyone else can help do there little part for the planet and this project in any small way possible... even if it is just to send us some 'kudos' or share ideas and information.
Remember kids: 1 Life - Live it, 1 Planet - Love it.
Jumpn2nsanity
In order to get to our destination we need to take the Subte to Retiro station, the train from there to Tigre, and then the shuttle Ferry to the island where Leo's place is. We meet up with him and another friend, Fran, outside the train station up there, get our tickets, and jump on the boat.
The weather was better than perfect (sorry you guys, "winter" down here is the best time of year!) and while the ride was about an hour long, it was plenty enjoyable.
There was a fair or some sort of amusement park on the side of the water... we didn't get too good a shot of it. Sorry. But you can also see that there are a lot of old, run down ships just sitting out there in the water. Go ahead and grab one!
Once we got out of the main waterway though things were starting to look much more peaceful and it actually reminded me of where I used to live in Venice, FL mixed with more nature. Already loving this place!
So, yeah, those pictures do the area no justice. How can you portray that feeling of pure relaxation? After the dock we walked a little ways through the trees to where his land actually sits. Turns out that the island has a lot of houses that people rent out to vacationers for weekend and the such. But Leo has a little bit of a different idea. Let me show you...
As you can see this is not your normal weekend getaway! Leo is a bit of an 'Eco-nerd' and has the idea to create a sustainable community on his land where people can come to work and learn strategies for sustainable management. Staying there is totally free, he just asks the participants to contribute to the community either through donations (money, equipment, supplies, knowledge) and/or by working on the property while there. At current it is still in the development stages but it turns out that was one of the reasons he wanted us to come up... to see if we could get things kick started. And boy, did we! We got the camp site under control, did a bunch of work on both the inside and outside of the house, and laid down plans for future trips back such as trails and clearings in the back pasture, an organic garden, compost pile, rainwater collection unit and cistern, solar water heating unit, and more... all using recycled materials! Leo has a great many very cool ideas for this place...
(This is our improvised door handle...)
The cabin itself is quite small, but when you are looking to get off the grid, small is good!
Along with the ideas that he has for the property, Leo is wanting to network with other likeminded groups and help to spread the ideas and knowledge of sustainability as far as possible so please check out his blog: echo-village.blogspot.com (much of it is in Spanish, but there is some in English and you'll find some great information) or check out the Facebook group "Echo-Village." I am headed back there in just a few minutes to spend another weekend of relaxing work. I hope that everyone else can help do there little part for the planet and this project in any small way possible... even if it is just to send us some 'kudos' or share ideas and information.
Remember kids: 1 Life - Live it, 1 Planet - Love it.
Jumpn2nsanity
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Rain at a funeral is soooo cliché...
Nestor Kirchner, former president of Argentina passed away this Wednesday. And, as usual, I had to observe the reactions of the people as an outsider usually does. But first, lets do a little bit of research on Kirchner so that we know a bit better who we're talking about.
In the first incarnatios of his career both he and his wife, Christina (the current president of Argentina), were lawyers with a successful practice in their home of Rio Gallegos. Early on he was a follower of the Justicialist movement who were followers of the late Juan Peron. When democracy was restored to Argentina in 1983 he started his political career becoming Mayor of his town and later Govenor of Santa Cruz province where he was credited with restoring financial balance to the region.
During this time though the economy of the country was starting to tank. President Carlos Menem had been in power from 1989-1999 and was perceived to be corrupt and flamboyant. Fernando de la Rua was then elected but the measures he instituted to help the economy did no good and things got even worse. This eventually led to the November 2001 run on the banks and the government issued a limit and then outright ban on bank withdrawals in hopes of stemming the downward spiral. Of course, a stupid move like this led to rioting in December. De la Rua resigned later that month.
So, de la Rua's chief opponent in the previous election, Eduardo Duhalde (a member of both Menem and Kirchner's party) was installed as interim president. He went and abolished the fixed exchange rate that had previously been in place. Of course what happened was that the Argentine Peso rapidly lost about 2/3 of its value reducing most people's savings to next to nothing while allowing exporters (not your average Argentinian) to profit. (Turns out that Argentina was heavily import-dependent at this time.) Duhalde decided that he didn't want the job anymore (probably was afraid of being lynched) and moved the elections forward by 6 months.
This election happened to wind up being between Menem (again), Kirchner, and supposedly a number of other candidates. Menem got 24% of the votes, Kirchner 22%, and since it looks like they were the 2 front runners, there was going to be a run-off between them. Since Menem was still viewed with a lot of animosity and polls showed Kirchner winning with 30%-40% of the vote, Menem decided to withdraw from the race, essentially handing the election to Kirchner.
*Pause for commentary*
So, what we are basically saying here is that he seems to be a good guy but won the election by a fluke? You would think of someone who was actually quite loved by his people to have made a better showing in the election. Hmm...
*Resume study*
Here's what he had to start out with: Economic instability, a middle class that has in itself been dropped 3 or 4 levels, $178 Billion (American) in debt, and signs of malnutrition cropping up for those below the middle class. Good luck buddy!
So what is on the list of a guy with a huge problem and very little reputatio? Let's see...
#1) Clean house - Let's kick out 1/2 the Supreme Court, impeach some others, boot out most of the high-ranking (and supposedly corrupt) military officials, and replace most of the rest of the governemt with people from his own party.
#2) Declare Bankruptcy - Sorry IMF, Deal with it.
#3) Start ignoring the US - Why don't more countries do this? Let's focus more on our close neighbors and see what we can do to help each other out...
#4) Hmm... People didn't really 'vote' me into office. Let's campain with everyone during the midterm elections. Turned out pretty well for his party...
#5) Ok, things are starting to level out. Let's see if the IMF will bargain a bit and just take a lump sum payout... SWEET!
So, he's pretty popular now. Focus on fixing up your own house and worry about what the others say about it later. But after only 5 years and an extremely good popularity rating... DECIDES NOT TO RUN FOR RE-ELECTION. Leave on a good note? Wow... how much smarter can you get?!
But with all of that in mind, there are a number of negative things tinging his career as well. Cronyism, embezzelment, corruption, spying on and harrassing of political opponents, and using the state Intelligence Service for his own gain were just a few. And current president Christina is thought to have profited as well...
So that is your history lesson for the day. Now let's look a bit at culture.
Wednesday was a holiday for the national Census (They have the smart idea of making everyone stay at home and getting it all done in one day) and so there was no school. He passed away that afternoon and as I was walking to school the next day I found that Plaza de Mayo (right in front of the Presidential House- Casa Rosada) is crammed full with people and baricades. I have to walk all the way up this plaza, beyond, and back down again just to get to the school. Of course, wouldn't you know it but they have declared a national day of mourning and the school is closed! Reverse, do it all over again, and head home.
The plaza was filled with people, flags, signs, flowers, and all the traipsings of an American sports legend passing. It seems that the Argentines are very free with their emotions (not only in this instance, FYI). Lots of crying, weeping, shouting, cheering, chanting....
And then Friday, the day of his burial, it of course starts to rain... so cliché. And yet people lined the procession route. TONS of them. There were a number of times that it seemed like the people wouldn't let the hearse get through...
I made mention to some of the people that were sitting watching the affair with me on the TV that this would never happen in the US. First, you couldn't come within 100 yards of the coffin without Secret Service guards taking a running tackle on you. And then Americans are so subdued and somber about these things. You'd see everyone wearing black and with their lips shut. Maybe a few protestors (the ones that always look for something to protest) but nothing more...
So, Fuerza Christina! Nestor con Peron, la Puebla con Christina... (Nestor is with Peron, the people are with Christina)
Jumpn2nsanity
In the first incarnatios of his career both he and his wife, Christina (the current president of Argentina), were lawyers with a successful practice in their home of Rio Gallegos. Early on he was a follower of the Justicialist movement who were followers of the late Juan Peron. When democracy was restored to Argentina in 1983 he started his political career becoming Mayor of his town and later Govenor of Santa Cruz province where he was credited with restoring financial balance to the region.
During this time though the economy of the country was starting to tank. President Carlos Menem had been in power from 1989-1999 and was perceived to be corrupt and flamboyant. Fernando de la Rua was then elected but the measures he instituted to help the economy did no good and things got even worse. This eventually led to the November 2001 run on the banks and the government issued a limit and then outright ban on bank withdrawals in hopes of stemming the downward spiral. Of course, a stupid move like this led to rioting in December. De la Rua resigned later that month.
So, de la Rua's chief opponent in the previous election, Eduardo Duhalde (a member of both Menem and Kirchner's party) was installed as interim president. He went and abolished the fixed exchange rate that had previously been in place. Of course what happened was that the Argentine Peso rapidly lost about 2/3 of its value reducing most people's savings to next to nothing while allowing exporters (not your average Argentinian) to profit. (Turns out that Argentina was heavily import-dependent at this time.) Duhalde decided that he didn't want the job anymore (probably was afraid of being lynched) and moved the elections forward by 6 months.
This election happened to wind up being between Menem (again), Kirchner, and supposedly a number of other candidates. Menem got 24% of the votes, Kirchner 22%, and since it looks like they were the 2 front runners, there was going to be a run-off between them. Since Menem was still viewed with a lot of animosity and polls showed Kirchner winning with 30%-40% of the vote, Menem decided to withdraw from the race, essentially handing the election to Kirchner.
*Pause for commentary*
So, what we are basically saying here is that he seems to be a good guy but won the election by a fluke? You would think of someone who was actually quite loved by his people to have made a better showing in the election. Hmm...
*Resume study*
Here's what he had to start out with: Economic instability, a middle class that has in itself been dropped 3 or 4 levels, $178 Billion (American) in debt, and signs of malnutrition cropping up for those below the middle class. Good luck buddy!
So what is on the list of a guy with a huge problem and very little reputatio? Let's see...
#1) Clean house - Let's kick out 1/2 the Supreme Court, impeach some others, boot out most of the high-ranking (and supposedly corrupt) military officials, and replace most of the rest of the governemt with people from his own party.
#2) Declare Bankruptcy - Sorry IMF, Deal with it.
#3) Start ignoring the US - Why don't more countries do this? Let's focus more on our close neighbors and see what we can do to help each other out...
#4) Hmm... People didn't really 'vote' me into office. Let's campain with everyone during the midterm elections. Turned out pretty well for his party...
#5) Ok, things are starting to level out. Let's see if the IMF will bargain a bit and just take a lump sum payout... SWEET!
So, he's pretty popular now. Focus on fixing up your own house and worry about what the others say about it later. But after only 5 years and an extremely good popularity rating... DECIDES NOT TO RUN FOR RE-ELECTION. Leave on a good note? Wow... how much smarter can you get?!
But with all of that in mind, there are a number of negative things tinging his career as well. Cronyism, embezzelment, corruption, spying on and harrassing of political opponents, and using the state Intelligence Service for his own gain were just a few. And current president Christina is thought to have profited as well...
So that is your history lesson for the day. Now let's look a bit at culture.
Wednesday was a holiday for the national Census (They have the smart idea of making everyone stay at home and getting it all done in one day) and so there was no school. He passed away that afternoon and as I was walking to school the next day I found that Plaza de Mayo (right in front of the Presidential House- Casa Rosada) is crammed full with people and baricades. I have to walk all the way up this plaza, beyond, and back down again just to get to the school. Of course, wouldn't you know it but they have declared a national day of mourning and the school is closed! Reverse, do it all over again, and head home.
The plaza was filled with people, flags, signs, flowers, and all the traipsings of an American sports legend passing. It seems that the Argentines are very free with their emotions (not only in this instance, FYI). Lots of crying, weeping, shouting, cheering, chanting....
And then Friday, the day of his burial, it of course starts to rain... so cliché. And yet people lined the procession route. TONS of them. There were a number of times that it seemed like the people wouldn't let the hearse get through...
I made mention to some of the people that were sitting watching the affair with me on the TV that this would never happen in the US. First, you couldn't come within 100 yards of the coffin without Secret Service guards taking a running tackle on you. And then Americans are so subdued and somber about these things. You'd see everyone wearing black and with their lips shut. Maybe a few protestors (the ones that always look for something to protest) but nothing more...
So, Fuerza Christina! Nestor con Peron, la Puebla con Christina... (Nestor is with Peron, the people are with Christina)
Jumpn2nsanity
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Paperwork
Sorry all but there are no pretty pictures to look at today. So you'll need to either skip on until next time or actually get that brain working today!
I wanted to say a few quick words about paperwork. Most especially the paperwork that you need to take care of when you visit a foreign country. Well, maybe not visit because I could shlep around here long enough without doing it and not get in too much trouble I think. But since I am looking to stay here longer than my tourist visa I need to dance the "Bureaucratic Boogie." The only thing I can equate this to in the US is doing your taxes.Most people have a hard time with their taxes because it involves math which to most Americans may as well be a second language. It was never too difficult for me, even without paying soomeone else to do themfor me. Mainly I think it is because the government wants to make sure they get every penny they deserve, so they try and make the process as easy as (realistically) possible.
But here, they really don't need me to stay. Yeah, a couple of more US dollars injected into their economy sure as heck isn't going to hurt, but at the same time I'm no nuclear physicist or network software engineer. I really don't have too many skills that are in high demand. And if you really think about it, if they knew how much I talked and how annoying I can get... they probably would have denied me entry even before getting on the plane. But, their loss is America's gain! :-D Ja!
So anywho, I may have rambled about this before but even while I was still preparing in the states I was having an issue with this topic. I had to start getting things in order. First was the passport, fairly easy in and of itself, but it was a process just like any other and required time, money, and filling out forms in triplicate. Then was getting all of my school documents together (diplomas, transcripts, etc). Then my "Letter of Clearance" (your criminal background). Along with these I also had to get a certified copy of my birth certificate. And no bother that I have 3 copies already, this one has to be official which of course means that it has to come from your state of birth and I just so unluckily happened to be born in Hawai'i. Yeah, I'm still waiting on that form.
But then, after all of that these forms are still not complete. These all then need to be certified as official (even the official ones, mind you) for international purposes. Yeah, take them down to the State Attorney General's office and pay to get the Hauge Apostille affixed to them. More time, more money. So yeah, pain in the butt...
But get this... once I got here there were even still more forms that I needed to get! Letter saying that I had no criminal record here, letter of intent from the school that I will be attending, official documentation of where I am staying, and as it turns out, I forgot one form from the US that I need: Federal letter of clearance. Yeah, from the stinking FBI. Turns out that the embassy can help me with this so I'm good there and I don't even need to get that "certified." BUT! (There's always a "but", or at least some ass in the room...) It turns out that I need to get it translated and the translation needs to be certified!
So, in short... you really better be wanting to move here. Because they are going to do everything they can to get you to leave! But on the bright side... I actually feel much safer here in some respects! Turns out that they are a bit more advanced than the US when it comes to fingerprint technology. Almost every government office here has a digital fingerprint reader! I have been printed numerous times already so you know I'm not going to be trying to steal anything!
Remember kids: Drugs are bad, mm-k?
Jumpn2nsanity
I wanted to say a few quick words about paperwork. Most especially the paperwork that you need to take care of when you visit a foreign country. Well, maybe not visit because I could shlep around here long enough without doing it and not get in too much trouble I think. But since I am looking to stay here longer than my tourist visa I need to dance the "Bureaucratic Boogie." The only thing I can equate this to in the US is doing your taxes.Most people have a hard time with their taxes because it involves math which to most Americans may as well be a second language. It was never too difficult for me, even without paying soomeone else to do themfor me. Mainly I think it is because the government wants to make sure they get every penny they deserve, so they try and make the process as easy as (realistically) possible.
But here, they really don't need me to stay. Yeah, a couple of more US dollars injected into their economy sure as heck isn't going to hurt, but at the same time I'm no nuclear physicist or network software engineer. I really don't have too many skills that are in high demand. And if you really think about it, if they knew how much I talked and how annoying I can get... they probably would have denied me entry even before getting on the plane. But, their loss is America's gain! :-D Ja!
So anywho, I may have rambled about this before but even while I was still preparing in the states I was having an issue with this topic. I had to start getting things in order. First was the passport, fairly easy in and of itself, but it was a process just like any other and required time, money, and filling out forms in triplicate. Then was getting all of my school documents together (diplomas, transcripts, etc). Then my "Letter of Clearance" (your criminal background). Along with these I also had to get a certified copy of my birth certificate. And no bother that I have 3 copies already, this one has to be official which of course means that it has to come from your state of birth and I just so unluckily happened to be born in Hawai'i. Yeah, I'm still waiting on that form.
But then, after all of that these forms are still not complete. These all then need to be certified as official (even the official ones, mind you) for international purposes. Yeah, take them down to the State Attorney General's office and pay to get the Hauge Apostille affixed to them. More time, more money. So yeah, pain in the butt...
But get this... once I got here there were even still more forms that I needed to get! Letter saying that I had no criminal record here, letter of intent from the school that I will be attending, official documentation of where I am staying, and as it turns out, I forgot one form from the US that I need: Federal letter of clearance. Yeah, from the stinking FBI. Turns out that the embassy can help me with this so I'm good there and I don't even need to get that "certified." BUT! (There's always a "but", or at least some ass in the room...) It turns out that I need to get it translated and the translation needs to be certified!
So, in short... you really better be wanting to move here. Because they are going to do everything they can to get you to leave! But on the bright side... I actually feel much safer here in some respects! Turns out that they are a bit more advanced than the US when it comes to fingerprint technology. Almost every government office here has a digital fingerprint reader! I have been printed numerous times already so you know I'm not going to be trying to steal anything!
Remember kids: Drugs are bad, mm-k?
Jumpn2nsanity
Monday, October 11, 2010
San Telmo
Ok, so I have recently moved from where I was living before (Boedo) to a hostel in another bario of the city (San Telmo).
Boedo (Before):
San Telmo (After):
As you can see the barios are not very far apart from each other but they are actually a world apart in a number of ways. First, even though they aren't far distant, it is almost impossible to walk from one to the other. Again, not that it's far, but that little area in between the two is Constitution. I've been told to compare it to southside LA. Don't go there unless you are looking to willingly give away all of your possessions and potentially your life at the same time. Subte, bus, or cab it.
They are also very different culturally. Boedo is quite laid back. Most of Baires is, actually. But especially Boedo. If I remember correctly Helena told me that is one of the more "mature" districts, in that the people who live there are working class families. Not too much hustle-bustle, the shops close at a respectable hour, and the people you see quite likely live there.
San Telmo on the other hand is a bit different. It was a really cool little area until I found out that it is one of the main tourist destinations of the city. Lots of cool little shops. The aviendas are quite small so traffic isn't as hellacious as the main streets of Boedo. And Parque Lezama is pretty darn big with a lot of cool things going on there. I am going to have to write an entire episode on the parque itself so you'll have to wait for that.
So one of the things that has me a bit concerned about this area is the number of tourists. Yes. I know. I don't actually live here, but I am trying to blend in and become a part of the community and the culture as best I can so I don't consider myself a tourist. Helena and I went out yesterday (10-10-10 woot!) wanting to just walk around, grab our daily litre of beer, and maybe chill out in the parque for a while. Well... This is what we were greeted with...
Yeah. That's a lot of people. Turns out on Sunday's that one of many markets lines Av Defensa. Shops are all open, craftspeople, traders, and all other sorts of people have booths, blankets, spots with their stuff laid out for sale.
All sorts of interesting stuff from jewelry, to handmade clothes, the ubiquitous mate gourds, knick-knacks, artistic-y things like paintings, photos, wire bug sculptures... Name it and you can prolly find it there. Great place to do your touristy shopping though I guess. And of course there was the ever present music from one small group of kids on guitars doing a damn fine rendition of some Rolling Stones songs, old guys singing Tango songs, what seems like the 5th capoeira group I've seen since coming here, and of course yet another Batuka group marching down the middle of the street...
One weird thing we did see was this guy doing a human statue/tin man routine on a box. *shrug* Takes all kinds I guess.
So hopefully it is just becase the weather is beautiful out and it was the day before a holiday that there was a crowd of people 3 miles long. If that is a weekly occurance I may not leave my room on Sundays. We'll see...
Remember kids: A captain always goes down with his ship. That's usually because he was the one dumb enough to steer it into a rock in the middle of the ocean in the first place. Good riddance, here's your Darwin award.
Jumpn2nsanity
Boedo (Before):
San Telmo (After):
As you can see the barios are not very far apart from each other but they are actually a world apart in a number of ways. First, even though they aren't far distant, it is almost impossible to walk from one to the other. Again, not that it's far, but that little area in between the two is Constitution. I've been told to compare it to southside LA. Don't go there unless you are looking to willingly give away all of your possessions and potentially your life at the same time. Subte, bus, or cab it.
They are also very different culturally. Boedo is quite laid back. Most of Baires is, actually. But especially Boedo. If I remember correctly Helena told me that is one of the more "mature" districts, in that the people who live there are working class families. Not too much hustle-bustle, the shops close at a respectable hour, and the people you see quite likely live there.
San Telmo on the other hand is a bit different. It was a really cool little area until I found out that it is one of the main tourist destinations of the city. Lots of cool little shops. The aviendas are quite small so traffic isn't as hellacious as the main streets of Boedo. And Parque Lezama is pretty darn big with a lot of cool things going on there. I am going to have to write an entire episode on the parque itself so you'll have to wait for that.
So one of the things that has me a bit concerned about this area is the number of tourists. Yes. I know. I don't actually live here, but I am trying to blend in and become a part of the community and the culture as best I can so I don't consider myself a tourist. Helena and I went out yesterday (10-10-10 woot!) wanting to just walk around, grab our daily litre of beer, and maybe chill out in the parque for a while. Well... This is what we were greeted with...
Yeah. That's a lot of people. Turns out on Sunday's that one of many markets lines Av Defensa. Shops are all open, craftspeople, traders, and all other sorts of people have booths, blankets, spots with their stuff laid out for sale.
All sorts of interesting stuff from jewelry, to handmade clothes, the ubiquitous mate gourds, knick-knacks, artistic-y things like paintings, photos, wire bug sculptures... Name it and you can prolly find it there. Great place to do your touristy shopping though I guess. And of course there was the ever present music from one small group of kids on guitars doing a damn fine rendition of some Rolling Stones songs, old guys singing Tango songs, what seems like the 5th capoeira group I've seen since coming here, and of course yet another Batuka group marching down the middle of the street...
One weird thing we did see was this guy doing a human statue/tin man routine on a box. *shrug* Takes all kinds I guess.
So hopefully it is just becase the weather is beautiful out and it was the day before a holiday that there was a crowd of people 3 miles long. If that is a weekly occurance I may not leave my room on Sundays. We'll see...
Remember kids: A captain always goes down with his ship. That's usually because he was the one dumb enough to steer it into a rock in the middle of the ocean in the first place. Good riddance, here's your Darwin award.
Jumpn2nsanity
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Primavera
Yeah, I haven't posted in a while. There's been lots of stuff going on and most of it wasn't picturable or even blogable so be glad that you had the time off. :-)
But I do want to apologize to everyone for a major concern that I have neglected to take care of. And that is the issue of the toilet water. I still have not had the opportunity (well, that would mean I haven't used the toilet since I've been here.) rather have not had the right mindset to empirically test to see whether the water circles the drain the other way. I will make sure to get on that ASAP.
But one wonderful thing that had been going on is Spring. Primavera here. Southern hemisphere = opposite seasons! Yes, we are just now leaving the depths of winter and the promise of beautiful weather is once again at hand. People are coming out of their hidey-holes, the trees are starting to flesh out, and the girls are wearing skimpier clothing!
I took a walk to the park the other day and shot some photos. As you can also see, I've been doing more with Photo-Chop as well. One thing that I have been told is that the entire city becomes pink as a result of the trees blooming. You can see it already in some of the photos. Enjoy!
Plaza Italia -
Botanical Gardens (again) but it's a good place for photos, sorry -
Remember kids: A penny saved is a penny earned. But a penny not spent is just so much shiny copper...
Jumpn2nsanity
But I do want to apologize to everyone for a major concern that I have neglected to take care of. And that is the issue of the toilet water. I still have not had the opportunity (well, that would mean I haven't used the toilet since I've been here.) rather have not had the right mindset to empirically test to see whether the water circles the drain the other way. I will make sure to get on that ASAP.
But one wonderful thing that had been going on is Spring. Primavera here. Southern hemisphere = opposite seasons! Yes, we are just now leaving the depths of winter and the promise of beautiful weather is once again at hand. People are coming out of their hidey-holes, the trees are starting to flesh out, and the girls are wearing skimpier clothing!
I took a walk to the park the other day and shot some photos. As you can also see, I've been doing more with Photo-Chop as well. One thing that I have been told is that the entire city becomes pink as a result of the trees blooming. You can see it already in some of the photos. Enjoy!
Plaza Italia -
Botanical Gardens (again) but it's a good place for photos, sorry -
Remember kids: A penny saved is a penny earned. But a penny not spent is just so much shiny copper...
Jumpn2nsanity
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
The expansion and disappearance of time within the Blog-o-sphere...
So I just realied that somewhere in the span of things I have lost about a week's worth of reality here in the blog. I mean, we go from the World Percusion Festival straight to the Subte Jazz Fest. Now, you don't know this (well, you do now) but there was about a week's worth of time in between those 2 events. So, I can manipulate your understanding of reality and I can change time without even thinking about it. Maybe my narcissistic view of myself as a god aren't too terribly far off? :-)
To wane philosophical for a moment we are all gods within our own individual sphere's of influence. Whether you believe in Free-will or Pre-determination I hope that we can agree that none of us knows the future. With that in mind we have the ability to directly effect our Present by our actions. I can choose to smile at the person next to me and change what may have otherwise happened (or not happened) between us. Just an observation...
So, with respect to here and time, it's more like I forgot that Helena was taking pictures with the little camera too. That and the fact that not everything is worthy of discussion. (I know you hang on my every word but I won't subject you to the mundane details like showers and cereal for breakfast.)
So, feel free to revel in today's eye-candy and commentary...
First, random pictures of me taking pictures. I am on the ground taking a vertical shot, not taking a mid-day nap.
We decided to have a picnic in the park one evening. Food is actually quite affordable here in Baires. Bottle of wine ~$5, Cheese ~$2, Baguette ~$1.50, Chorizo (sausage) ~$3. So a nice meal for about $10 American.
They have a bridge here in Baires that Helena refers to as "phallic." I think of it more as a woman doing leg lifts. *Shrug* You decide...
Duncan: FYI - This is the proper form to be used with a punching bag. Also note the glee in her eyes as she mercilessly attacks this innocent umbrella...
Ok, by now you have also notice the little red and blue thingies. They are actually called "Squishy Bowls/Cups" by Guyot Designs. I have to say that they are my vote to replace the Red and Blue SOLO cups we have all used in our drunken adventures at one time or another. Perfect size, no random flavor changes, easily clean up, and they don't break or crack when you drop them! That and they SQUISH! To any size so they fit in any purse, bag, or backpack that you happen to be carrying your illicit goods around in. That and they're a little less conspicuous when you're out drinking in public... Not that that is a worry in Baires! :-)
We still yet have not had an opportunity to visit La Boca, where the majority of the city's Tango culture is located. But we did happen by some street performers while we were cruising Florida Av.
Random shots of me. Again, courtesy of Helena.
The area near the Docks heading to Puerto Madero...
Now there is another traditional food that I think you need to be wary of if you have any heart or cholesterol issues: Chorie-Pan. It's exactly what it states: Chorizo and Bread (Chorizo being sausage. And not the super-spicy mexican stuff. Most Argentines don't like spicy foods.) But very like the state fair they let you put whatever the heck you can imagine on it: chimmichurri, onions, salsa, cucumbers, tomatos, mayonaise, catsup, mustard, and one thing they really like are those little Pik-Nik fried potato french fry thingies. Go figure. Either way it was exceptionally tasty!
"Mafalda" (the plastic chick on the bench with us) is one of the national comic characters here.You can actually see comic strips of her in the Subte. Turns out last time she was here, Helena spent an entire day trying to find this spot. We just happened on it by accident.
Can't really tell here but this is another percussion group that we happened upon as they were practicing one evening...
And finally... Can you believe that this whole city goes crazy over the coming of Spring? Count downs all over the news for months before, signs all over shop windows, and a huge party downtown. It's essentially a national holiday as the kids don't even go to school. And all for a few leaves and blossoms on the trees...
Remember Kids: Plaigiarism is a punishable crime. Just ask any college student. So give credit where credit is due... Thanks for the pictures Helena!
Jumpn2nsanity
To wane philosophical for a moment we are all gods within our own individual sphere's of influence. Whether you believe in Free-will or Pre-determination I hope that we can agree that none of us knows the future. With that in mind we have the ability to directly effect our Present by our actions. I can choose to smile at the person next to me and change what may have otherwise happened (or not happened) between us. Just an observation...
So, with respect to here and time, it's more like I forgot that Helena was taking pictures with the little camera too. That and the fact that not everything is worthy of discussion. (I know you hang on my every word but I won't subject you to the mundane details like showers and cereal for breakfast.)
So, feel free to revel in today's eye-candy and commentary...
First, random pictures of me taking pictures. I am on the ground taking a vertical shot, not taking a mid-day nap.
We decided to have a picnic in the park one evening. Food is actually quite affordable here in Baires. Bottle of wine ~$5, Cheese ~$2, Baguette ~$1.50, Chorizo (sausage) ~$3. So a nice meal for about $10 American.
They have a bridge here in Baires that Helena refers to as "phallic." I think of it more as a woman doing leg lifts. *Shrug* You decide...
Duncan: FYI - This is the proper form to be used with a punching bag. Also note the glee in her eyes as she mercilessly attacks this innocent umbrella...
Ok, by now you have also notice the little red and blue thingies. They are actually called "Squishy Bowls/Cups" by Guyot Designs. I have to say that they are my vote to replace the Red and Blue SOLO cups we have all used in our drunken adventures at one time or another. Perfect size, no random flavor changes, easily clean up, and they don't break or crack when you drop them! That and they SQUISH! To any size so they fit in any purse, bag, or backpack that you happen to be carrying your illicit goods around in. That and they're a little less conspicuous when you're out drinking in public... Not that that is a worry in Baires! :-)
We still yet have not had an opportunity to visit La Boca, where the majority of the city's Tango culture is located. But we did happen by some street performers while we were cruising Florida Av.
Random shots of me. Again, courtesy of Helena.
The area near the Docks heading to Puerto Madero...
Now there is another traditional food that I think you need to be wary of if you have any heart or cholesterol issues: Chorie-Pan. It's exactly what it states: Chorizo and Bread (Chorizo being sausage. And not the super-spicy mexican stuff. Most Argentines don't like spicy foods.) But very like the state fair they let you put whatever the heck you can imagine on it: chimmichurri, onions, salsa, cucumbers, tomatos, mayonaise, catsup, mustard, and one thing they really like are those little Pik-Nik fried potato french fry thingies. Go figure. Either way it was exceptionally tasty!
"Mafalda" (the plastic chick on the bench with us) is one of the national comic characters here.You can actually see comic strips of her in the Subte. Turns out last time she was here, Helena spent an entire day trying to find this spot. We just happened on it by accident.
Can't really tell here but this is another percussion group that we happened upon as they were practicing one evening...
And finally... Can you believe that this whole city goes crazy over the coming of Spring? Count downs all over the news for months before, signs all over shop windows, and a huge party downtown. It's essentially a national holiday as the kids don't even go to school. And all for a few leaves and blossoms on the trees...
Remember Kids: Plaigiarism is a punishable crime. Just ask any college student. So give credit where credit is due... Thanks for the pictures Helena!
Jumpn2nsanity
Monday, September 27, 2010
The Subte
For those of you that haven't figured it out yet the "Subte" is Baries' subway system. It consists of a number of different lines that allow you to get around the city with a modicum of ease. Well, just like NYC's subway, there are of course adverts all over the walls down there. Well, one that we saw was for a Jazz Festival to be held in the Subte stations. Gratis? (free?) Let's go!
Well, first thing is that the only stations that were big enough to hold such a thing happened to be on the exact opposite side of the city. If you look at the map below, we are currently staying on the purple line (Linea E) near the Boedo station. The concerts were on the North end of the green line (Linea D).
So the trip up there was about an hour, even by Subte. Much quicker than walking all the way there... (though it is something stupid that I have been known to do in the States.) But a nice enough ride for a Sunday. Just to warn you... If you haven't ridden a subway line during rush hour in a large city it is a very different experience than one you may have ever had before. People joke about it being packed in like sardines. I think I would much prefer to be the sardine, at least they are packed in an organized manner and don't have to worry about coming up for air every-so-often. And then, if you are on the wrong side of the car for the station you want you are totally out of luck!
But I made it to the first station with no troubles and my only worries being for the low clearance in the doorways. To my dismay the group happened to be on the other side of the turnstiles and I had a sneaking suspicion that it would be the same in the other stations. I'm a cheap bastard and I didn't want to have to pay to get back on at each station and off again, but we'll worry about that later...
I was both excited and slightly disappointed when I saw the first group.
Turns out it was the Jazz Ensemble from a local school. Not quite what I had in mind for a night of jazz, but then again, this being my own roots I had to stay and listen. Yeah, they weren't top notch and they might not even have warranted a notch of any kind... but you've got to start somewhere! And it brought back some memories of my past Jazz bands and almost choked (emotion or gagging, I don't know) when they played "Stardust", probably the first jazz ensemble piece I ever played (and very complex chordally, so likely not too good of a choice in some instances.) Great exposure for the kids and a great way for them to get started soloing.
Now, back to my cheapness... It was about 15 minutes till the next show started at the next Subte station. I wasn't going to pay $1,20 to see each so I decided to walk to the next. :-) It was a beautiful afternoon out and so I actually enjoyed myself. The more I think about it, the more every place I've gone in the world looks the same. This little sidewalk cafe reminded me of downtown Hickory, would have fit in well in Phoenix if there were misters up, definitely saw some in NYC, and you can probably find the same thing in Paris, London, and Rome (not that I've been there, but if it's elsewhere, you can prolly find them there too.) Of course someone would have a conniption about the Budweiser sign if it was in the US.
Turns out that the distance between Subte stations isn't that far. Granted, not as quick as riding, but nothing to argue about unless you're in a rush. I was more pumped for the second group when I saw them. Guitar, String Bass, Drum set, and vocalist; more like what I was expecting to hear! Well... I wsa actually more let down by this group than I was by the kids. Yes, jazz involves playing many standards that came out of America, but the biggest thing you need to know is how to sing and play in tune. Go ahead and get the words wrong, I understand that English is not your first language, and just like music is universal, tuning should be universal too. In their defense though, the drummer and guitarist were both actually decent players, but they all just didn't click together.Thankfully you can't hear how bad they are in this picture.
Disheartened with my experience so far and the night halfway over I made my way to the next station, which just happened to be the station I was at previously to see the kids play. I was immediately intrigued as I saw the kids' instructor sitting behind a Drum set. The guy to his right (stage right) was sitting on his amp and uncasing a nice looking guiar and the 3rd guy had his string bass out and tuning it (a good sign already!) No music stands, no sheet music (like the previous group), I couldn't help but remember every Sunday night at the Taproom in Hickory where my percussion professor had (still has, actually) a standing jazz gig. And I was not disappointed when they started playing! Finally, this was what I had come to hear! They played a number of recognizeable standards and probably some that either weren't standards or I just didn't know them. Solos all around and even trading 4's... *sigh* Now, not that I am a guitarist (though that is the next instrument I need to learn) but the guy was quite talented in my opinion. Flashy, but not over the top, didn't repeat any licks ad naseum, and was quite lyrical with his lines. And the drummer was quite good too, using his instrument as a voice instead of like a trash can. The bassist could have used some work as he looked like he was new to the trio, but he was able to keep up and hold his own. In this instance, the pictures don't do the music justice. :-)
They made the experience worthwhile and I was hesitant to ruin the evening on the chance that the next group would be like the second, I was getting tired, and it was nearing 19:00 in a foreign city quite a long ways from where I was staying. But I decided that I would give the next group a chance. If they didn't pass muster then I could head home with no qualms.
I walked down the stairs into the station and saw a group of people already sitting there waiting for the start. What I saw was 4 kids maybe in their early 20's with an electric keyboard, 6-string bass, drum set, and percussion (congas, timbales, cowbell). From what I could tell this could go either way. Either they would be pretentious and I could go home, or they would be half good and worth listening to.
The pianist and bass player started in... not perfect, but then again they were in tune, kept time, and the music was interesting. Then the drumer and percussionist started in with some simple back rhythm. Quite enjoyable! So I stayed around for a second tune. And a third, and a fourth. They had some really interesting ideas (musically) and some nice arrangements. More to the point though, they clicked together and seemed to be having fun! I definitely had to give them credit for doing their homework! But it really made my night when they broke into an excellent arrangement of "St Thomas" and the percusionist finally broke out of his shell and showed that he was not there just for show! Rock on with your bad self!
So, while it started off kind of slow, the evening turned out to be quite enjoyable! It just goes to show: always leave your expectations at the door.
Remember kids: 1+1 = 2, unless it's cars then you've got yourself an accident.
Jumpn2nsanity
Well, first thing is that the only stations that were big enough to hold such a thing happened to be on the exact opposite side of the city. If you look at the map below, we are currently staying on the purple line (Linea E) near the Boedo station. The concerts were on the North end of the green line (Linea D).
So the trip up there was about an hour, even by Subte. Much quicker than walking all the way there... (though it is something stupid that I have been known to do in the States.) But a nice enough ride for a Sunday. Just to warn you... If you haven't ridden a subway line during rush hour in a large city it is a very different experience than one you may have ever had before. People joke about it being packed in like sardines. I think I would much prefer to be the sardine, at least they are packed in an organized manner and don't have to worry about coming up for air every-so-often. And then, if you are on the wrong side of the car for the station you want you are totally out of luck!
But I made it to the first station with no troubles and my only worries being for the low clearance in the doorways. To my dismay the group happened to be on the other side of the turnstiles and I had a sneaking suspicion that it would be the same in the other stations. I'm a cheap bastard and I didn't want to have to pay to get back on at each station and off again, but we'll worry about that later...
I was both excited and slightly disappointed when I saw the first group.
Turns out it was the Jazz Ensemble from a local school. Not quite what I had in mind for a night of jazz, but then again, this being my own roots I had to stay and listen. Yeah, they weren't top notch and they might not even have warranted a notch of any kind... but you've got to start somewhere! And it brought back some memories of my past Jazz bands and almost choked (emotion or gagging, I don't know) when they played "Stardust", probably the first jazz ensemble piece I ever played (and very complex chordally, so likely not too good of a choice in some instances.) Great exposure for the kids and a great way for them to get started soloing.
Now, back to my cheapness... It was about 15 minutes till the next show started at the next Subte station. I wasn't going to pay $1,20 to see each so I decided to walk to the next. :-) It was a beautiful afternoon out and so I actually enjoyed myself. The more I think about it, the more every place I've gone in the world looks the same. This little sidewalk cafe reminded me of downtown Hickory, would have fit in well in Phoenix if there were misters up, definitely saw some in NYC, and you can probably find the same thing in Paris, London, and Rome (not that I've been there, but if it's elsewhere, you can prolly find them there too.) Of course someone would have a conniption about the Budweiser sign if it was in the US.
Turns out that the distance between Subte stations isn't that far. Granted, not as quick as riding, but nothing to argue about unless you're in a rush. I was more pumped for the second group when I saw them. Guitar, String Bass, Drum set, and vocalist; more like what I was expecting to hear! Well... I wsa actually more let down by this group than I was by the kids. Yes, jazz involves playing many standards that came out of America, but the biggest thing you need to know is how to sing and play in tune. Go ahead and get the words wrong, I understand that English is not your first language, and just like music is universal, tuning should be universal too. In their defense though, the drummer and guitarist were both actually decent players, but they all just didn't click together.Thankfully you can't hear how bad they are in this picture.
Disheartened with my experience so far and the night halfway over I made my way to the next station, which just happened to be the station I was at previously to see the kids play. I was immediately intrigued as I saw the kids' instructor sitting behind a Drum set. The guy to his right (stage right) was sitting on his amp and uncasing a nice looking guiar and the 3rd guy had his string bass out and tuning it (a good sign already!) No music stands, no sheet music (like the previous group), I couldn't help but remember every Sunday night at the Taproom in Hickory where my percussion professor had (still has, actually) a standing jazz gig. And I was not disappointed when they started playing! Finally, this was what I had come to hear! They played a number of recognizeable standards and probably some that either weren't standards or I just didn't know them. Solos all around and even trading 4's... *sigh* Now, not that I am a guitarist (though that is the next instrument I need to learn) but the guy was quite talented in my opinion. Flashy, but not over the top, didn't repeat any licks ad naseum, and was quite lyrical with his lines. And the drummer was quite good too, using his instrument as a voice instead of like a trash can. The bassist could have used some work as he looked like he was new to the trio, but he was able to keep up and hold his own. In this instance, the pictures don't do the music justice. :-)
They made the experience worthwhile and I was hesitant to ruin the evening on the chance that the next group would be like the second, I was getting tired, and it was nearing 19:00 in a foreign city quite a long ways from where I was staying. But I decided that I would give the next group a chance. If they didn't pass muster then I could head home with no qualms.
I walked down the stairs into the station and saw a group of people already sitting there waiting for the start. What I saw was 4 kids maybe in their early 20's with an electric keyboard, 6-string bass, drum set, and percussion (congas, timbales, cowbell). From what I could tell this could go either way. Either they would be pretentious and I could go home, or they would be half good and worth listening to.
The pianist and bass player started in... not perfect, but then again they were in tune, kept time, and the music was interesting. Then the drumer and percussionist started in with some simple back rhythm. Quite enjoyable! So I stayed around for a second tune. And a third, and a fourth. They had some really interesting ideas (musically) and some nice arrangements. More to the point though, they clicked together and seemed to be having fun! I definitely had to give them credit for doing their homework! But it really made my night when they broke into an excellent arrangement of "St Thomas" and the percusionist finally broke out of his shell and showed that he was not there just for show! Rock on with your bad self!
So, while it started off kind of slow, the evening turned out to be quite enjoyable! It just goes to show: always leave your expectations at the door.
Remember kids: 1+1 = 2, unless it's cars then you've got yourself an accident.
Jumpn2nsanity
Sunday, September 26, 2010
World Percussion Festival
Upon my arrival in Baires, one of the first things that Helena mentions to me is the "World Percussion Festival" to be held in Quilmes. Well, that's a no brainer for me! Let's go!
We first met up with a couple of Helena's Brazilian friends and took the bus ride out to the town of Quilmes.
Like every other festival in Baires we figured it would be held in the park so we went and grabbed a couple of bottles of beer, some snacks, and headed out. I was able to find a snack that I hadn't seen since my childhood (actually, since Amanda went to Germany a couple of years ago and sent me one back): A KinderEgg! Milk chocolate and white chocolate (very tasty!) wrapped around a plastic egg with the world's dumbest little toys inside. Ours was a little, see-through, plastic ghost with a teeny-tiny dice inside of it. No clue what the point of it is but we have determined that it must be Lacan's "Fantasma."
After sitting in the part for a while we realized that there was no festival going on. Turns out that since this was the one park in town and it was quite small that the festival was actually being held in the Library basement. Go Figure.
The first group we saw was playing Cajón, an Afro-Peruvian instrument that is basically a box which is sat upon and played with the hands.
Next was a Capoeira group. Many may be aware of his as a style of fighting (thanks to video games and Hollywood) but it is actually a mixture of martial arts, dance, and music that originated in Brasil. The instruments consist of some of the more traditional such as the pandeiro (tambourine) and atabaque (drums and congas) but also include the berimbau which looks like a bow with a gourd attached to it. The string is struck with a stick and pitch is altered using the finger (similar to a guitar or violin.) The music is then what drives the rhthym of the dance or fight...
The next group was an Argentine drum line which consisted of the traditional Bombo Leguero (similar to our bass drum), congas, and timbales.
Finally was a Murga group. These originate from the Carnival festivals of Brazil and consist of bass brums with little high-hat cymbals on top and snare drums. But they usually also include a dance group as weel. And you can tell that one of the girls in this group was really getting into the action...
By the end of this group it was almost 10pm and we had been stuck in this basement with pounding drums for about 4 hours. Supposedly there was one more group but our ears just couldn't take much more. Besides, the Subte stops running at 10:30 on the weekends so we had to make like a baby and head out.
Remember kids: Don't wear white after Labor Day.
Jumpn2nsanity
We first met up with a couple of Helena's Brazilian friends and took the bus ride out to the town of Quilmes.
Like every other festival in Baires we figured it would be held in the park so we went and grabbed a couple of bottles of beer, some snacks, and headed out. I was able to find a snack that I hadn't seen since my childhood (actually, since Amanda went to Germany a couple of years ago and sent me one back): A KinderEgg! Milk chocolate and white chocolate (very tasty!) wrapped around a plastic egg with the world's dumbest little toys inside. Ours was a little, see-through, plastic ghost with a teeny-tiny dice inside of it. No clue what the point of it is but we have determined that it must be Lacan's "Fantasma."
After sitting in the part for a while we realized that there was no festival going on. Turns out that since this was the one park in town and it was quite small that the festival was actually being held in the Library basement. Go Figure.
The first group we saw was playing Cajón, an Afro-Peruvian instrument that is basically a box which is sat upon and played with the hands.
Next was a Capoeira group. Many may be aware of his as a style of fighting (thanks to video games and Hollywood) but it is actually a mixture of martial arts, dance, and music that originated in Brasil. The instruments consist of some of the more traditional such as the pandeiro (tambourine) and atabaque (drums and congas) but also include the berimbau which looks like a bow with a gourd attached to it. The string is struck with a stick and pitch is altered using the finger (similar to a guitar or violin.) The music is then what drives the rhthym of the dance or fight...
The next group was an Argentine drum line which consisted of the traditional Bombo Leguero (similar to our bass drum), congas, and timbales.
Finally was a Murga group. These originate from the Carnival festivals of Brazil and consist of bass brums with little high-hat cymbals on top and snare drums. But they usually also include a dance group as weel. And you can tell that one of the girls in this group was really getting into the action...
By the end of this group it was almost 10pm and we had been stuck in this basement with pounding drums for about 4 hours. Supposedly there was one more group but our ears just couldn't take much more. Besides, the Subte stops running at 10:30 on the weekends so we had to make like a baby and head out.
Remember kids: Don't wear white after Labor Day.
Jumpn2nsanity
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Cruising Baires
Ok... So I finally get to my own stuff again. Hope that you all haven't missed me too much (or too little. I do have a bit of an ego...)
It's hard to believe but I almost got into an argument with Helena last night about how long I've been here already (I must accede, I would have lost the argument even if I was right.) But it's only been a week and a half! It seems like it must have been 2-3 weeks already with as much as we have been doing and as good as (I feel) that my Spanish has been coming along. But then again I was getting frustrated that I have not been able to fluently converse with some of Helena´s friends and realized it hasn't been that long.
Anywho... Pictures.
So, the first thing that is usually on my mind here is food: what are we getting, when are we getting it, and why is it not in my belly right now? So last Friday we headed off to Palermo to start our day. A very cooll part of town and one of the oldest.
We immediately headed for a place and when I saw it I couldn't help but crack up like a fool! "Kentucky Pizza!"
"Kentucky Chicken" I could understand, but Pizza? Well, we were not actually looking for pizza (as I ate myself sick of it the last few weeks in the states. Delivery rocks when you don't have a mode of transport!) but it looked so good that I had to add it to my list of things to try at a later date.
What we had actually come for were empenadas. From left to right: Rocquefort with cream sauce, Cut Beef, Ham and Cheese, and Shredded Chicken. Oh. My. Yum. I really had to hold myself back so that Helena wouldn't lose a hand.
See? All hands accounted for!
Well, we had stopped to eat in the Botanical Gardens and it was a beautiful day so we cruised around a bit.
No, I'm not that big of a pervert, it just so happened that EVERY single statue (except for one) happened to be of a naked woman. *shrug*
"Um, hello? I just left Arizona?" Too funny, but I guess cacti would be exotic to them...
And of course the one statue that wasn't a chick in the buff...
After that we left the park and started cruising elsewhere. Porteño Tip #14: There are animals everywhere, especially stray dogs. They just lie out in the street or walk up to your table as you are eating lunch looking for a snack. They are so prevalent that they are nearly invisible to the natives. And for those of you that don't really know me: I despise pigeons and even worsee than then are old ladies who feed them. FEED THEM! Ugh! Unless you are throwing out handfulls of dried rice I don't want to ssee it... ugh.
And similar to NYC and other large cities, people are paid to walk your dog...
Had to get a picture of this gem
Helena wasn't so happy about posing for a couple of pictures for me, especially the Big, Scary Tree...
More interesting things...
Next we went by the planetarium (not inside, that's for a future date.)
This goose was so fat that all of his other goose buddies were making fun of him...
And kids all around the world play "Pato, pato, ganzo" (Duck, duck, goose)
Perhaps my new favorite saying: "Don't forget to be happy."
This statue in front of the Mounted Police headquarters actually had real hair on it!
Ok back to cruising... this time past the embassies...
Giant metal flower that open and closes with the sun. Helena is still trying to convince me that it is NOT a giant death-ray... (but you can't fool me!)
A view of the city and what traffic really looks like here as well as the skyline...
Coming into the National Cemetery...
It was really interesting to see structures from the early 1800's right alongside something that was built 2 years ago...
And the inside of some of these mausoleums were pretty cool too...
So, all in all a very fun day and lost of new things seen. Hope you enjoyed!
Don't forget to be happy.
Jumpn2nsanity
It's hard to believe but I almost got into an argument with Helena last night about how long I've been here already (I must accede, I would have lost the argument even if I was right.) But it's only been a week and a half! It seems like it must have been 2-3 weeks already with as much as we have been doing and as good as (I feel) that my Spanish has been coming along. But then again I was getting frustrated that I have not been able to fluently converse with some of Helena´s friends and realized it hasn't been that long.
Anywho... Pictures.
So, the first thing that is usually on my mind here is food: what are we getting, when are we getting it, and why is it not in my belly right now? So last Friday we headed off to Palermo to start our day. A very cooll part of town and one of the oldest.
We immediately headed for a place and when I saw it I couldn't help but crack up like a fool! "Kentucky Pizza!"
"Kentucky Chicken" I could understand, but Pizza? Well, we were not actually looking for pizza (as I ate myself sick of it the last few weeks in the states. Delivery rocks when you don't have a mode of transport!) but it looked so good that I had to add it to my list of things to try at a later date.
What we had actually come for were empenadas. From left to right: Rocquefort with cream sauce, Cut Beef, Ham and Cheese, and Shredded Chicken. Oh. My. Yum. I really had to hold myself back so that Helena wouldn't lose a hand.
See? All hands accounted for!
Well, we had stopped to eat in the Botanical Gardens and it was a beautiful day so we cruised around a bit.
No, I'm not that big of a pervert, it just so happened that EVERY single statue (except for one) happened to be of a naked woman. *shrug*
"Um, hello? I just left Arizona?" Too funny, but I guess cacti would be exotic to them...
And of course the one statue that wasn't a chick in the buff...
After that we left the park and started cruising elsewhere. Porteño Tip #14: There are animals everywhere, especially stray dogs. They just lie out in the street or walk up to your table as you are eating lunch looking for a snack. They are so prevalent that they are nearly invisible to the natives. And for those of you that don't really know me: I despise pigeons and even worsee than then are old ladies who feed them. FEED THEM! Ugh! Unless you are throwing out handfulls of dried rice I don't want to ssee it... ugh.
And similar to NYC and other large cities, people are paid to walk your dog...
Had to get a picture of this gem
Helena wasn't so happy about posing for a couple of pictures for me, especially the Big, Scary Tree...
More interesting things...
Next we went by the planetarium (not inside, that's for a future date.)
This goose was so fat that all of his other goose buddies were making fun of him...
And kids all around the world play "Pato, pato, ganzo" (Duck, duck, goose)
Perhaps my new favorite saying: "Don't forget to be happy."
This statue in front of the Mounted Police headquarters actually had real hair on it!
Ok back to cruising... this time past the embassies...
Giant metal flower that open and closes with the sun. Helena is still trying to convince me that it is NOT a giant death-ray... (but you can't fool me!)
A view of the city and what traffic really looks like here as well as the skyline...
Coming into the National Cemetery...
It was really interesting to see structures from the early 1800's right alongside something that was built 2 years ago...
And the inside of some of these mausoleums were pretty cool too...
So, all in all a very fun day and lost of new things seen. Hope you enjoyed!
Don't forget to be happy.
Jumpn2nsanity
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