1. We will suggest a song, and while you are listening to it, we will stand next to you explaining the meaning of each single phrase, until you reach a point when you can’t distinguish if the song has finished or if our voice is part of the track.
2. Even though we’re relentless critics of our pais de mierda, when we travel abroad we want everybody to know right away that we’re from Argentina, el mejor país del mundo.
3. We talk about how amazing Patagonia is when we are in Alaska, about how breathtaking Iguazu Falls are when we are at Niagara, and about how wonderful other countries are when we are in Argentina.
4. We dare to teach the Tibetans how to solve their ancient mysteries in two or three simple steps, and of course, we talk to them in Spanish. Easy!
5. We talk loud.
6. Very loud.
7. We kiss you on the cheek when we say hello and goodbye. Always. It doesn´t matter if you are a man, a woman or a dog (we love dogs!).
8. We are experts in opening other people’s fridges.
9. Even though we’re fierce rivals with our neighboring Uruguayans and Chileans back home, when we encounter them abroad we feel an unexpected sense of brotherhood–and have a party!
10. We are the best hosts. And when we are guests we will still act like the hosts.
11. We can turn from being modest and peaceful moderators, to crazy, eager and indefatigable arguers if contradicted in essential issues of life, such as “who is the best football player in history?”.
12. Our backpacker-budget will not hold us back from expensive activities such as a private full diving course in Similan Islands (we’ll also invite our friends), even if we have to spend our last penny on it.
13. We proclaim the “Patria Grande” (Latin America as one only Nation), but at the same time we explain to the Brazilians & Uruguayans that football, mate and Tango are exclusively Argentinean.
14. Every second word we say is either “boluuudo” or “che” or a combination thereof.
15. Rock and Roll is argentino and Charly García is the biggest star.
16. Sooner or later we will surround ourselves with other Argentines, with whom we will try to show the world the benefits of being from Argentina.
17. We are los reyes del chamuyo, which is an exquisite mix of bullshitting while showing the most charming personality.
18. We ask lots of advice to finally end up doing whatever we want.
Taken from: http://matadornetwork.com/life/18-ways-instantly-recognize-argentine-traveler/
If you find yourself Googling ‘How to Make Friends in A Foreign Country’, you and I have something very much in common. Before embarking on this journey to a land so far away, I wondered if I would be able to make friends in this city. I come from Singapore, a rather conservative country where starting a conversation with a random stranger does not come naturally. But before you take pity on me, let me first say that I am no introvert. I have no problems socializing and I would like to believe that I am an extrovert. Someone like that couldn’t possibly have troubles meeting new people right? Wrong!
The language barrier made it so much more difficult to converse with the Argentinian locals. In the month that I’ve been here, I’ve learnt a few tips and tricks that helped me work my way around the crowd. Of course learning the language is a great starter. Knocking back a drink or two helped at first but I realized all I needed was a big ol’ smile on my face!
1. Make an Effort
If you are new to the Spanish language, striking a conversation could be a daunting activity. Buying groceries from the supermarket and having a conversation with the cashier could be as nerve-wracking as speaking politics. You will come to realize that if you make the slightest effort and show that you are trying to learn their language, they will be more than happy to speak to you, even if it is just to find out how your day is going. Try being the first to say hola! It could be pretty intimidating looking a stranger in the eye and saying hello but hey, with a smile on your face, you’d find that it really isn’t as scary.
2. Embrace the Difference
Having differences is not always a bad thing. I come from a completely different cultural and racial background from anyone in Argentina and I had the impression that I wouldn’t be able to connect with anyone I met here. Little did I know that the difference is a brilliant conversation starter! I believe the second you start embracing the difference, you will realize that people are really open to a mix of cultures and they’re just as willing to learn about the differences as you are.
3. Put Yourself Out There
There are countless of ways to meet people in this city. It could be a bar, the park, the theatre, the possibilities are endless! If you’re new to the city and want to know the best places to go, Facebook is perhaps your best friend. With the endless events to go for, you’re bound to meet really great people and even forge friendships. One of my personal favorites’ is Mundo Lingo, a place where you meet people from all over the world who are in this city for various reasons. They meet three times a week, at different locations with good beer and free popcorn or pizza (depending on the day). Or, you could even try the famous pubcrawl for a great night of drinks, music and fun! If you are willing to put yourself out there and try new things, you will be meeting people and making friends in no time!
4. Take a Positive Approach
If you have a positive mindset, your outlook changes for the better. I’m pretty sure not everyone you meet will be someone you can get along with. But like the saying goes, ‘People come into your life either to teach you something or to learn from you’. So be open-minded and remember that there is always something you can learn from every new person you meet. And who knows? The most unlikely person could turn out to be your newfound friend.
5. Let Your Guard Down
If you come from a more conservative background like I do, the sense of intimacy here might just take you by surprise. People here are generally affectionate with each other and they greet each other with a kiss on the cheek. It took me about a week to get used to that but I grew into it and I’m definitely taking this custom home with me! It is a beautiful way to greet someone and it really shows your appreciation towards them. You will notice that Argentinians have very close personal spaces and are not afraid to show their affection. My advice? Let your guard down and be open to these cultural differences. Perhaps you could share some of your customs from back home too!
Last week, Voluntario Global had the pleasure of delivering a charitable donation to one of our kindergartens in Suárez—a donation made possible by the gracious efforts of Milhouse Hostel manager, Mariano. Upon arrival, Liliana, one of the kindergarten’s founders, led us down the street to an empty lot containing the bare bones of construction. Thanks to fundraising efforts like Mariano’s, we can help this small plot of land will soon become home to a new-and-improved kindergarten.
Before this recent development, Liliana and her colleagues had been renting out their former locality for the duration of a whopping seven years. Throughout the school year, the kindergarten / day care center typically fosters around sixty children, ranging from eight-month-old babies, to five-year-old youngsters. Their doors stay open for a daily stretch of eight hours, as opposed to the three or four-hour days customary to most kindergartens. These extended hours function in providing much-needed relief for numerous single mothers in the area, majority of whom must endure long and tiring work days in order to provide for their families. Liliana looks to this oncoming chapter with a mixture of emotions: fear that the facilities might not be ready in time, pride in finally having a spot to call their own, and an unavoidable nostalgia for leaving behind a place that has enabled their growth up to this point.
If all goes as planned, the kindergarten should be up and running by the end of February. Voluntario Global salutes the hard work and dedication of those who have contributed to this wonderful endeavor.
Though my decision to embark on this journey to Argentina involved little hesitation, the months leading up to my trip were certainly not without worry. My impending life abroad caused for an endless list of questions. How well would I cope with the major lifestyle changes that lay ahead— the language barrier, the homesickness, the daunting distance standing between me and any half-decent Mexican food? I suddenly found myself scrambling to take in, and in some forms, utilize the many aspects of California life I had long-taken for granted: its beautiful beaches, winding canyons, the overwhelming accessibility to all things organic. And while I knew I’d survive a few months without free-range chicken and pressed juice, I was sure I’d miss the scenery. Aside from one very unfortunate, fruitless quest for hot sauce, Buenos Aires has been graciously accommodating. The lush green parks and gardens scattering the city seem to taunt my preconceived notions of living in this big city. Unlike California, the concept of a drought remains intangible, and trips to the park never require a trip to the gas station. It’s now been two months since my arrival, and I can confidently say that the tables have turned. Need proof? Here are three breathtaking parks and gardens of Palermo that will never fail to please.
EL ROSEDAL (The Rose Garden) Avenida Infanta Isabel & Iraola
El Rosedal lies at the heart of the expansive Parque Tres de Febrero, otherwise known as the Bosques de Palermo (Palermo Woods). The park is home to over 1,000 species of roses, lining its many winding walkways leading a diversity of guests towards numerous gazebos, picturesque bridges, and a charming lake equipped with paddle boats and gaggles of geese. If you’re into literature, make sure to check out the Poets’ Garden— one of the park’s main attractions, due to its large collection of statues depicting various renowned writers from around the world.
JARDÍN JAPONÉS (Japanese Garden) Av. Casares 2966
The Japanese garden has become a symbol of intercultural relations in Buenos Aires. It’s one of the largest of its type outside Japan. Apart from overall beauty and serenity found inside its gates, the garden also offers a number of attractions, including a large cultural center housing various exhibits and artisanal classes, a greenhouse containing an endless array of bonsai trees, flowers and plants for purchase, a traditional Japanese teahouse, gift shop, and much more. You can grab a bite to eat at the restaurant, or even feed the brightly colored carps inhabiting the lake. With its long list of activities and masterful landscaping, the Jardín Japonés can be found enjoyable to all.
JARDÍN BOTÁNICO (Botanical Garden) Av. Santa Fe 3951
This has easily become my favorite Buenos Aires hideaway. The 17 acre haven holds approximately 5,500 species of plants, trees and shrubs, as well as a number of sculptures, monuments and greenhouses. If that doesn’t impress you, the garden serves as a great place to escape the heat with its plentiful shade and refreshing scent of nature, all the while blocking out the bustling city sounds which encompass it. Whether you’re looking for a romantic outing with a significant other, or merely a quiet place to read and reflect, you’ll be sure to enjoy the visit.
Energetic youth
Visiting the laundry cooperative “Su lavandería”, I was very impressed by the energy and the motivation the young people working there are investing. All of them are immatriculated at high schools or universities or do any kind of professional formations besides spending a few hours per week working at the laundry. The nine guys and girls, all in the age of 17 to 26, reach the aim of satisfying all of their clients who are basically entrepreneurs in the gastronomic sector and hotel businesses. The laundry offers washing, drying and ironing service, available 365 days a year.
Creating perspectives
So this working cooperative creates an opportunity for the young people it employs to finish their careers, which they otherwise probably could not afford. The initiative arose as a part of the Voluntario Global organization in 2008, and from that moment on, it tries hard to improve and win orders.
Its values
The atmosphere at the laundry seemed very warm-hearted to me because of the people I met: From the moment I arrived, I felt welcome and everybody started talking to me openly. I noticed that they care about values of respecting each other and making decisions democratically. The laundry team is used to have monthly meetings discussing all the recent issues. Furthermore, the social cooperative not only acts with respect towards everybody, but also towards the environment. Everything is tried to make the washing process more sustainable and ecologically sensitive.
Descubriendo Buenos Aires: Cooperativa de trabajo Su Lavandería
En mi visita a la cooperativa de trabajo "Su lavandería", me impresionó la energía de los jóvenes empleados allí, que todos al lado de pasar algún tiempo de la semana allá, se dedican a estudios universitarios o varias formaciones profesionales. Los nueve chicos y chicas, todos en la edad entre 17 y 26 años, consiguen que sus clientes, todos de empresas de gastronomía y hotelería, están muy satisfechos. A aquellos, ofrece servicios de lavado, secado y planchado disponibles todos los días del año.
Construyendo perspectivas
Dicha Cooperativa de Trabajo Limitada entonces da la oportunidad de terminar sus carreras a estos jóvenes, que la mayoría de veces de otro modo no se podrían financiar. Fue iniciada como parte de la organización Voluntario Global en 2008, y desde este momento sigue mejorándose y ganando encargos.
Valores
El ambiente de la lavandería me pareció muy cálido por la gente que encontré, me sentía muy bienvenida tan pronto como llegué allá, como todos me hablaron muy abiertamente desde el primer momento. Se ví que comparten valores como el respeto de cada uno al otro y la igualidad de todos que es condición para la forma en que se toman las decisiones en la lavandería: Hay encuentros mensuales en que charlan todo que recien pasa. La cooperativa social no solo tiene un trato respetuoso entre el equipo, sino también al medioambiente. Intenta crear el proceso de lavado tan sostenible y suave como posible.
The intricate soundscapes of Buenos Aires are nearly impossible to ignore. Take a walk down the street, or merely crack open a window at any given time or day, and you’ll be sure to hear the city’s song: a unique blend of birds chirping, cars honking, followed by the occasional profanity or echoes of a rowdy celebration in the distance.
For the less observant, it’s not uncommon to come across the more literal form of music as well. Your cab driver cranks up his favorite Beatles’ classic on your way to a local bar, where you’re fortunate enough to witness a couple brave gringas belt out their versions of Shakira. Music has become a binding bridge here in Argentina, as it has throughout the rest of the world. I came face-to-face with this notion shortly after my arrival in Buenos Aires—turns out, scoring concert tickets to the Stones’ may prove virtually impossible in both hemispheres. While this realization begged itself more bitterly than sweet, my recent trip to one of Voluntario Global’s kindergartens in Barracas quickly restored my faith in the power of music as a universal language.
On the bus ride over, our Parisian volunteer, Elise, shared some of her experience working with the four-year-old students in Barracas: “They ask me why I talk funny,” she said smiling bashfully. Despite the aforementioned language barrier, she’s instantly greeted by a swarm of giddy beaming children, each one fighting for their chance at a hug. I later watch in awe as Elise and the teacher somehow manage to help nearly twenty rowdy students transcend chaos into chorus. The class greets each other with their routine welcome song, “El Mono,” followed by a quick rehearsal for their end-of-year show—ironically enough, singing the Spanish rendition of Frozen’s “Let It Go.” By the looks of it, both Elise and her students allowed the gift of song to supersede whatever premonitions might have stood in the way of integration.
However anecdotal this account of my trip to Barracas may have already seemed, I’ll humbly offer the following advice to any prospective volunteers, whom, at some point, may find themselves disillusioned by the cultural differences in their path, be it language barriers or sold out concerts: before you turn back in defeat, take a walk around the block with open ears, an open mind, and merely listen for your familiar song.
Two months is a long time to get properly acquainted with a new environment. During this time, I have had my share of gelato and helado (ice cream). In Buenos Aires, there is a never-ending supply of the frozen sweet with a gelateria or heladeria (ice cream shop) on almost every street corner! With a rich history dating back to the 18th century with their Italian ancestors, ice cream is a fundamental part of the Argentinean culture.
Some might be wondering, what is the difference between gelato and helado? For starters, there’s a slightly different process in which gelato and helado is made. Gelato is churned at a much slower rate, incorporating less air and leaving the gelato denser than ice cream. Another important fact to remember is that gelato is served at a slightly warmer temperature than ice cream, giving it silkier and softer texture. But it also has a tendency to melt quicker so eat up!
Just in time for the hot summer season, here’s our top five picks for the best spots to try some authentic Argentinean flavors like Tramontana, Dulce de Leche, chocolate con almendras (almonds) or Malbec y frutos rojos (Malbec and berries) For a more thorough list of flavors check out this website.
1. Rapanui – This is by far the best tasting gelato in Buenos Aires! There are a few different locations but if you are heading to the Recoleta Cemetery, take a 2 min walk to Rapanui. It’s so worth it, especially when you can stock up on Christmas gifts with a purchase of a box of their homemade chocolates!
2. Cadore – For the traditionalists like myself Cadore is the place to go! This vintage gelateria is a family-run business that started in the late 18th century in Venice, Italy. Cadore is a friendly parlor located on Avenida de Corrientes and Rodriguez Pena.
3. Freddo – One of the biggest chain of ice cream parlors in Buenos Aires and provides the daily customer a variety of flavors at a reasonably cheap price.
4. Volta – Another one of the chain ice cream parlors but with a sophisticated edge, they make chocolate and have some of the best chocolate flavors. Again this is one of the more moderate priced heladerias.
5. Persico – One of the chain heladerias that is equally good in quality and price. Definitely worth checking out if you find one as you are walking along the street.
For more tips on the best gelato and helado in Buenos Aires check out Gringo or for more information about general chain ice cream parlors check out this blog. Your welcome and enjoy!!
About one hour and half trip away by Subte and train, we arrive at the Health Clinic in Ramos Mejia. The clinic has long-served this community since 1942. Over time, the clinic established itself as a vital part of the livelihood and sustainability of the neighborhood. It provides a variety of services - pediatrics, gynecology, dentistry, orthopedics, kinesiology, orthopedics, cardiology, clinical medicine, psychiatry and psychology – with doctors who work for very minimal salaries. However, these doctors like Dr. Daniel, th director, are committed and aware of their role at the clinic.
As part of the Responsible Tourism Network, Voluntario Global has supported the clinic by directing volunteers with a profession in the medical field or those that are studying to become a nurse or doctor. Unlike other projects, the volunteers that work with the staff at the clinic get some real ideas of how the medical system works in Argentina. One of our current volunteers from The Netherlands, Liselore, said that you “feel needed and it’s really nice to work here”.
After almost two months, Liselore has had the privilege to shadow Dr. Daniel, who has more than welcomed reciprocated learning. At 21, Liselore is only finishing her third year of nursing school and looks forward to bringing back to the Netherlands some of the pleasantries and genuine kindness of those at the clinic in Buenos Aires.
In 2015, where digital streaming, pirating and binge viewing movies and television shows on hundreds of websites such as, Netflix and Hulu it’s hard to remember that people still enjoy going to the cinema. For some, watching a film surrounded by strangers in a dark room with luxurious, ‘stadium’ seating is worth a ticket price of $15-$20 USD. Everyone has a different perspective and reaction to high stakes in an action film, horribly embarrassing moments of a comedy or when the most anticipated couple kiss in a Nicholas Sparks romance. Well in Argentina, the same trends sustain but in what seems to be a classy and a keen part of their culture.
From the famous architectural masterpieces of Teatro Colon and Teatro Gran Rex, there are many ‘vintage’ cinema houses in Buenos Aires to check out. Rich history and architecturally stunning are some characteristics of cinemas like Cine Locra, Cine 25 de Mayo and Cine Gaumont. The latter, Cine Gaumont is located across the plaza in front of the Congressional building on Avenida de Mayo. Cine Gaumont was built by a Frenchman back in 1912 and nearly 100 years later was threatened to be demolished since the owners did not wish to renew their lease. Thanks to legislature Juan Cabandié and supporters of the National Institute of Cinema and Audiovisual Arts (INCAA), the cinema was protected and remains active serving many locals and tourists alike every day.
After a recommendation from a housemate and student filmmaker, I was lucky to see “Kryptonita,” a well-received Argentinian film at some recent festivals. Despite testing my language skills, it was definitely a must-see and genuine cinematic experience. Read about some other classic cinema houses on the Argentina Independent.
Aside from the traditional cinematic experience, there are always the multiplex. Atlas Cines has a few multiplex cinemas all over the city including Monument Lavalle, in the heart of San Nicholas and a few blocks away from Florida Street. There’s also Cinemark in Puerto Maderno and Village Cines in Reloceta (*insert link). So whatever your mood, whatever barrio (neighborhood) you’re in take a trip to the cinema. Don’t forget to grab some fresh popcorn or peanuts, a drink and enjoy the show! For more recommendation about cinemas and film in Argentina check out the following website.
Over the last two years, Rocio Belen Gonzalez Vasquez, has been a vital part of the team at Voluntario Global. Rocio says that like many things “the team is also a family,” and she has thoroughly enjoyed working with Voluntario Global. She says, “I love getting to know all who are involved with the projects and meeting volunteers from all over the world.”
Dedicated to both her education and career she is reminded of her idol, her mother. Her mother went back to college after she had started a family. She worked during the day, went to school at night, and still had time to be a supportive parent. Remembering cartoon from her childhood, where the main character had a watch that could stop time, she smiles and says, “That would be a great superpower because you never have enough time to do everything!” But with or without superhero powers, Rocio is determined to accomplish her goals and make her mother proud.
Currently, Rocio is studying for a Master’s degree in social policies. She hopes to get a position in the Argentinean government. From a young age, Rocio was inspired to raise awareness about real issues of both the past and present. Although she loves working with NGOs like Voluntario Global, her dream job is to work in the Educacion y Memoria program with the Ministerio de Educacion, training children to become human rights defenders and promoters.
Rocio does want to travel more whether or not she gets a government job. “Traveling is great, you learn so much about yourself,” she says reflecting on her first trip abroad to England. She’ll also continue to play sports and watch Argentinean films when she’s not on-the-clock. She says, “I love to play sports ever since I was a little girl… And I love Argentinean films, I like the stories they tell about real people.” Some of her suggestions include “Andres No Quiere Dormir La Siesta” and “Kamchatka.”
Her advice for the new coordinator Milena is to enjoy it, “It’s a cool job and the team you work with is amazing.” For the new volunteers she says, “It can be tough at first living somewhere new, but take advantage of opportunities. Let go of the fear!” Carpe diem Rocio!
VOLUNTARIO GLOBAL
Voluntario Global helps local communities by being available to discuss anything that local organizations need, and offering ideas for further change and development.
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Location: General Pacheco. Buenos Aires. Argentina
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