#argentina best travel destinations

[wanderlustphotosblog]

My Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay Trip Planning: An Early Look

Join me on an epic adventure as I explore Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. Get all the details on the destinations, logistics, and tours in this trip update post.

It has been too long since I have explored the beautiful continent of South America, which is why I am so excited to announce that I will be returning this year! I have officially begun the process of planning my Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay trip and want to share some of the details with you. In the coming months, I will be sharing additional details as I start to finalize my plans. In this…

[travelernight]

10 Attractive Places To Visit In Argentina

[mania-sama]

if you need me, dear, i'm the same as i was

Everywhere, Everything - Noah Kahan

➼ 01 - i wanna love you 'til we're food for the worms to eat ❧ Information (Summary, Tags, Chapters) ❧ Next Chapter ❧ Word Count: 7,742 ❧ Cross-posted from Archive of Our Own

Iwaizumi Hajime stumbles into the shower at three-thirty in the morning, attempting to yank the vivid memory of his dream out of his brain by pulling vainly at his hair. He succeeds only in inducing a pounding headache. Perfect. This is exactly what he needs on arguably one of the most important days of his career. Dread pools in the pit of his stomach, and he steps out feeling worse than when he got in.

Unable to fall back asleep, he spends the next two hours doom-scrolling on Tiktok. He mostly gets stupid clips and gym videos, but that doesn’t come without its pitfalls. Every time he sees a girl and guy lifting weights together or playing around on the machines, Iwaizumi has the urge to throw up his dinner and sling his phone across the room.

The video where two best friends created a montage of their time spent traveling South America does make him curse out loud, sending him into a ten-minute spiral that he sincerely regrets.

The second the time hits six o’clock, he clicks his phone off with more force than necessary and dresses with equal parts aggression and perturbation. His fingers tremble, and his vision blur at the edges. 

He can still smell the airport, can still feel the throng of people moving around him with their suitcases rolling loudly on the ground. They all had a destination in mind: a place to be or a person to meet, setting out on a new adventure or returning home to their old comforts.

But not Iwaizumi. Iwaizumi was losing everything.

He shakes his hands vigorously as if he’s somehow shedding away his dream. His job demands the utmost attention and patience from him. He can’t risk fraying his nerves on the shit going on in his own head. His team needs him at his functional best, all prevailing circumstances considered.

He meets the Men’s National Volleyball Team in their main dining hall, determined to keep them on a proper eating schedule to help with both their diets and his own. Nobody commented on his admittedly picky eating and slightly shorter temper, for a bundle of anxiety is circulating through the players themselves. After two days’ rest from participating in competitive games, they have the most important match to play against one of the strongest teams in this year’s Olympics:

Argentina.

The Japanese National Team is good. The whole world recognizes their player powerhouses, and their ability to strategize and adapt has helped them immensely in the games they’d already played. But they aren’t going against the weaker teams anymore. This is the Olympic gold game. Everything is on the line.¹

And somehow, they hadn’t been seeded against Argentina yet.²

It’s been by pure luck and happenstance. It’s not the first time it’s happened, and it likely won’t be the last. But still. It would’ve been nice to have played against them at least once before they had to fight for a shiny piece of metal. Their strategy is formed based solely on the games they’ve watched both in-person and on television instead of the lived experience of coming toe-to-toe with the unrelenting Argentinian players.

These facts are what the players are worried about, anyway. 

Iwaizumi Hajime is not a player.

No one on the team has mentioned it to him yet, and he prefers to keep it that way. They likely don’t remember that he and Oikawa Tooru, #13 of the Argentinian Men’s National Volleyball Team, played on the same team in high school. And even if they do, they certainly wouldn’t know that they were closer than just the ace and his setter.

Except for Kageyama and Hinata, maybe. But Kageyama is still far too awkward and anti-social to say something like that, nor does Iwaizumi believe he cares enough to antagonize him. As for Hinata, he’d mentioned playing beach volleyball with Oikawa a couple of times with a few unsubtle side glances at Iwaizumi. However, Hinata had never talked to him about it, and Iwaizumi had never pushed for him to do so. Iwaizumi thinks that if the opposite hitter wants to say something, he would’ve done it by now.

If God truly loves him, his team will stay both ignorant and away from him.

When Miya Atsumu sits down next to him, propping his chin on the heel of his hand and staring at him with an unnervingly knowledgeable gaze, Iwaizumi knows that God has forsaken him.

“You ate fast. You’re going to give yourself a stomach ache,” Iwaizumi comments before Miya can say anything. Letting him take control of the conversation from the get-go is a quick way for Iwaizumi to lose his goddamn mind.

“No, you’re eating slow,” Miya points out. Iwaizumi pointedly takes a large bite from his banana, trying very hard not to bare his teeth crudely. “Got a headache?”

Iwaizumi spares him a mean side-eye. “I’m getting there. Is there something you need?”

“Yeah,” Miya says, smiling, and fuck, Iwaizumi just let him take the reins so easily, didn’t he? His attempts at politeness always seem to blow up in his face. “Any advice you can give me about Argentina’s number thirteen? Setter versus setter beef, you know. I need all the help I can get.”

Iwaizumi considers his answer carefully. “You spend enough time alone analyzing their games, plus however long the team spends reviewing together. There’s nothing I can tell you that you don’t already know.”

And he believes this. They probably know Oikawa Tooru better than Iwaizumi does at this point. They see him from an angle that Iwaizumi never could and never will. He doesn’t have anything to add to their observations.

“Uh-huh,” Miya muses. Iwaizumi would punch him in the jaw if he thought that was something he could get away with. “No weaknesses? Nothing? I mean, you knew the guy for what, eleven years? You’re saying there’s nothing you can add?”

Iwaizumi’s food tastes like ash on his tongue. “Fifteen years,” he corrects despite himself. “He’s probably changed a lot since high school. I don’t know anything special about him.”

His bitterness is impossible to mask. He wants to wrap his hands around Miya’s throat and strangle the daylights out of him, but that would be unprofessional.

“Damn,” Miya says. Damn indeed, Iwaizumi thinks, stabbing his egg yolk. “Are you excited to be on the same court as him again? I know you don’t exactly keep in contact, so it’s been a while.”

“Have you been prying into my personal life?”

“I didn’t!” He exclaims, waving his hands lightly. “I know a guy who knows a guy who knew you two in high school. The rest is everything you’ve already told us, I swear!”

Iwaizumi doesn’t mention that in order to get that information, Miya had to have personally asked for it in detail. He’s far too wired to get into a debate about logistics with Miya Atsumu of all people.

“Sure,” he dismisses, stuffing the rest of his now-bland food down his throat. He gets up to put away his tray, nodding to the rest of the team as he passes with Miya trailing behind him. “I don’t feel any particular way. We haven’t talked in, like, eight years. He’s just like any other player on the Argentina team.”

“Wow,” Miya breathes, wide-eyed and very clearly holding back a laugh. Iwaizumi escapes into the throng of athletes and staff before he does something that will get him both fired and arrested.

He meets with them again in the Japanese-designated exercise room after he’s splashed water on his face and cooled down. Iwaizumi knows that Miya was riling him up because he was on edge himself. Miya thrived off of provocation, so when they were all fraying from anxiety, he automatically latched onto the first thing that he thought would make him feel better. It doesn’t make what he did right or okay, but Iwaizumi understands the reasonings behind his actions.

Luckily, Iwaizumi has fifteen years of experience in dealing dickheads like Miya. 

Fifteen years he can never get back. Might as well make good use of them.

His veins pulse with excitement and unease, watching the players carefully to make sure they don’t accidentally injure themselves. Bokuto Koutarou tries his very best to kill himself on the elliptical every time he’s on it, so he keeps a special eye on him.

He spends most of his time with Sakusa Kiyoomi, though, and not the trouble-makers who give him a migraine. Sakusa knows the routine by now: careful calf stretches with resistance bands and weights, then ten minutes on the Stairmaster. They talk through the exercises, and the outside hitter, thankfully, does not mention any significant pain or weakness. Iwaizumi doesn’t question the silence; he would’ve been able to spot if his muscles started convulsing on their own or if Sakusa started to favor a leg.

At the end of their session, Sakusa wipes off his sweat with his towel and turns to Iwaizumi. “Sorry for what Miya said. He can be a bitch.”

Iwaizumi squints at him. “Don’t apologize on his behalf.”

“I know,” he shrugs, “but he’s always trying to start something, and he’s not going to apologize himself. Truth is, he’s kind of excited to see Oikawa-san. He’s admired him for pretty much his whole life, and now that they’re facing off for the first time since high school, he doesn’t know what to do with all his… feelings.”

Sakusa’s face scrunches up at that last word, and it almost makes Iwaizumi laugh. Then he remembers that he’s going through the same thing tenfold with no one to console but himself. He still talks with Hanamaki and Matsukawa, but it’s not the same when they aren’t there with him. Since Iwaizumi took this job for the national team, it’s been much harder to get together for drinks or simply be in their presence. Thus, all this excitement and “feelings”, as Sakusa puts it, have been left to be deciphered by his lonesome.

And he is certainly not going to Miya about his problems. Distant admiration and a close bond are two very, very different beasts. Most days, he’s not even sure Hanamaki and Matsukawa understand the depth of his old, broken unrequited love. He’s not sure anyone can.

“I get it,” is all Iwaizumi says.

The outside hitter eyes him up and down for a moment, his gaze burning and scrutinizing. He opens his mouth like he’s going to say something, then aborts it abruptly by turning away to join the rest of the team heading out of the gym. Iwaizumi hears them say something about reviewing matches, but he doesn’t join them. Instead, he spends his time meditating, watching an old episode of Kitchen Nightmares³, and trying — failing — not to think about airports, blocked numbers, or unsaid confessions.

Then he meets up with the team again, and the thirty-minute warm-up session is over quicker than he hoped it would be. They file into Team Japan’s entrance to the Olympic court.

Iwaizumi thinks he’s holding himself together well, all things considered. He doesn’t have a mental breakdown. His heart is beating at a normal rate. He doesn’t pace around the tight corridor. His thoughts are clearer than the jumbled, anxious mutters of the players.

A horn blows, the gates open, and a stream of light hits his fattened pupils. His world goes white and blurry as he walks behind the players with the coaches and staff. When his vision clears, all he can see is the white and dark blue jerseys of the opposing team.

He doesn't know how he manages it, but he finds Oikawa’s brown hair and stupidly long limbs and jersey number immediately. Oikawa isn’t looking his way. His head whips around to view the crowd cheering in their seats, finds the drones in the air and the volleyball net in the middle of the court, and Iwaizumi thinks that in the last eight years of radio silence, nothing has changed.

Oikawa is right in his element, with the world watching him stand in the middle of their flashing lights. He looks confident in the way he never could’ve been in Japan.

Some things have changed.

“I couldn’t be prouder to have you as a partner, and you’re the absolute best setter. Even if we end up on different teams, those facts will never change.”

Iwaizumi joins the rest of the staff on the sidelines, clasps his hands behind his back, and waits patiently for the national anthems to start playing.

His feelings aside, this is the Olympic gold medal game. He is happy to be here. And by God, they will come away with their necks decorated in gold. They’ve trained hard enough. He’s trained hard enough, with so many years of schooling, interning, and working tirelessly to improve his reputation and status in the world of sports medicine. He deserves this as much as the players on the court.

“But I’ll still give my all to defeat you.”

Except the one person who has given up everything — his family, his friends, his nationality — to chase his dreams. Maybe he deserves it a little more than everyone else.

Iwaizumi tears up at his country’s national anthem, swaying slightly back and forth as if he hasn’t gone through this ritual half a dozen times before in these past two weeks. He watches from his peripheral for Oikawa, who stands stock-still during both the Japanese and Argentinian songs. Not once does he catch Oikawa looking back for him.

It shouldn’t hurt after eight fucking years, but bile crawls up his throat anyway and his legs try to give out from under him.

Nobody mentions it. Miya and Sakusa give him a discerning look, but he ignores them hard enough for his silent message to get across. He will not talk about it, and he will not let it affect the game.

Oikawa serves first.

“Bring it on.”

His form is perfect, the same as when Iwaizumi has admired it time and time again from his phone, laptop, and apartment television. He’s seen Oikawa Tooru on the large projector screens during strategy debriefs, both learning from Oikawa’s strengths and breaking down his weaknesses. It was torture to see him everywhere at all times. Close enough to idolize, but never to breathe the same air, share a cup of coffee, or feel the sweat dripping off his body.

Their suns set at different times. Their days were out of alignment. Their lives moved on separate planes. They survived eight years without a single word confirming if they were dead or alive; if they were doing alright or suffering from addiction; if they were married or still searching for a place to call home; if Oikawa missed Iwaizumi as much as Iwaizumi missed him.

Now, here they are, on the same court so many years after graduating high school, and his heart still races with that old, painful adrenaline of watching Oikawa’s power rattle the morale of the opposing team.

Hinata Shouyou receives the bowl with some difficulty, and they are unable to get a spike off before the ball has to go over the net. Oikawa flicks his tongue over his lips. Iwaizumi’s heart sputters.

He shouldn’t be so satisfied to see his own team struggle to set a tempo against Oikawa.

At twenty-seven to twenty-five, Team Japan takes the first set of five.

The brief intermission between sets allows the respective teams to cool off and regroup in preparation for the second set. Iwaizumi hovers over the players as they drink from their water bottles and catch their breaths. He doesn’t need any of them dropping from exhaustion or dehydration, nor does he need impromptu cramps or asthma attacks.

Before he has a chance to ask, Sakusa tells him that he feels fine. Iwaizumi accepts the answer without argument — no muscle twitching, no favoring, and honestly, Sakusa appears less worn out than the other on-court players.

His mind warns him against it, but his head moves on its own accord. He spots Oikawa on the Argentinian bench, wiping sweat from his forehead and drinking from his bottle while talking to his teammate. He seems fine, too. Healthy. Happy. Not giving a damn about the person he knew for fifteen years across the net.

Oikawa rubs his chest, right over his heart, in a contained circular motion. Iwaizuimi twitches and the edges of his mouth involuntarily fall into a frown.

“Head in the game,” Miya says loudly, slapping him on the back with far more force than strictly necessary. Iwaizumi glares at him, and Miya returns it in kind with a cruel grin. “Got anything for us now?”

“Nothing you haven’t seen,” Iwaizumi says. People press their hands to their chests all the time. He knows Oikawa is fine. Iwaizumi needs to keep his eyes focused on his own team. “Feeling okay?”

“Better than ever,” the setter responds. “Let’s win this bitch.”

The team laughs and repeats similar phrases before setting out on the court for the start of the second set. Oikawa enters with a confident, fierce stride on the Argentinian side of the net. Miya rolls his eyes and sticks out his tongue rather childishly.

Argentina takes the second set, twenty-five to eighteen.

“Wow,” Iwaizumi echoes, not intending to be mean but succeeding in gaining a few glares nonetheless. “How’s everyone doing?”

Kageyama, who’d subbed in for Miya halfway through the set, answers first. “Like I need the gold medal in between my teeth.”

Iwaizumi stares at him, remembering the kid he was so long ago and the vitriol Oikawa harbored for him for being born with innate talent. They have both come so far to compete on the world stage, facing each other once again in a battle of control and mind games, serves and sets.

He can’t tell what either of them are thinking. Does Kageyama feel the need to prove himself as Oikawa had for the years that Iwaizumi had known him? What does Oikawa feel, now, on his bench with people Iwaizumi has never met?

Instinctively, he glances over at Oikawa, trying to gauge his reactions like he hadn’t been keeping one eye on him the entire match. His hand is gliding from the middle of his chest to his collarbone, then back again. He’s halfway draped onto the teammate closest to him, #6.

He doesn’t seem perturbed, but Iwaizumi reads Oikawa like they were still kids. Oikawa never settles for anything less than perfection. Iwaizumi sees it in the way his jaw tightens when he shakes the receive or his serve doesn’t land the pinpoint he wants it to. He sees it in the subtle side-eyes and glances at Japan’s #9 and #1 when he thinks no one is paying much attention.

And he knows that in fifteen years of being by his side, and in observing several years’ worth of recorded San Juan matches, Oikawa Tooru does not have a nervous habit of rubbing his chest. It’s always been below the hips where he slides his fingers back-and-forth, back-and-forth, creating a sandpaper-like sound that is honestly louder than it should be. It had annoyed Iwaizumi to death in their classes, since he usually sat behind Oikawa and therefore heard everything better than his peers. He had gained a habit of pinching Oikawa’s fingers together when he was physically able.

#13 of the Argentinian National Team sets down his water bottle and drops his hand to the side. The pads of his fingers start sliding, and Iwaizumi barely restrains himself from walking under the net and pinching him.

His other hand keeps working on his chest and collarbone, and one of his legs starts idly moving side-to-side.

“Hinata,” he calls, forcing himself to turn around and talk to his actual team. Oikawa Tooru should not, is not, his priority. That much is clear, for Iwaizumi has a wonderful career, players he cares about, and a match he really wants to win. “Let me see your arm.”

As his reply, Hinata coughs haggardly. He hasn’t been subbed once in the entire game yet. Iwaizumi figures he needs a little more time than the rest to catch his breath. Sticking his forearms out, Iwaizumi examines the spot where Hinata had received a strong spike at a backward angle; it elicited a pained reaction out of him, and Iwaizumi has to be sure it was nothing serious.

He pats Hinata’s elbow in approval. “You’re fine. Try receiving the ball like a normal person next time.”

The short man flashes him a grin and a thumbs-up before eagerly trodding off to consume what has to be a gallon of water. An objectively terrible idea to follow through with, but Iwaizumi fears he is far too late to correct that behavior.

Finding their #15 player, Iwaziumi gives Sakusa a hard once-over. Outwardly, he appears perfectly fine. They’d worked through all of the precautionary measures to prevent pain or injuries, but his cramps could strike at any moment regardless of how much effort was put in to stop them.

Sakusa catches his gaze and nods to him reassuringly. Iwaizumi warns the head coach, Hibarida Fuki, that Sakusa needs to be subbed out the moment Iwaizumi asks for him. The coach looks like he wants to argue, but Iwaizumi was born with a face that makes people listen to him if he glares at them hard enough. Hibarida acquiesces his demand without further complaint.

Sakusa works hard in the first few points of the match set, as if he knows, deep down, that this is the last he’ll play of the game. When Oikawa jumps for a set, his body piked in the air and muscles taut, Iwaizumi feels his gut twist with simple, innate intuition.

It catches the team off-guard when the setter dumps it instead of setting it off to either the outside or opposite hitter that had lined up to spike. Sakusa dives for the ball, missing it by the smallest centimeter from his pointer finger, and Iwaizumi calls for him to come in with only the smallest twinge of guilt.

The dump was amazing. The way Sakusa’s leg twitched on the ground for the smallest fraction of a second was decidedly not amazing, and neither was the way Oikawa stumbled when his feet hit the floor.

Sakusa sits close to Iwaizumi on the bench, his face contorted into something remarkable like a pout. “I feel fine,” he grumbles.

“You come from a family of doctors. I’ve worked with you for months. You know to trust me on this,” Iwaizumi says. “When your leg cramps, it’s better it happens here than sacrifice a play out there.”

The outside hitter rolls his eyes but says nothing. Iwaizumi is well aware of how frustrating it is for him to be forced from a game like this. He’d had his own bad days in high school volleyball, and he has no shortage of memories of dealing with Oikawa’s rages and breakdowns over his old knee injury.

Surgery does wonders, he reminisces. Due to the careful and precise timing that they had agonized over for quite some time, Oikawa didn’t even have to miss any of his high school matches from recovery and rehabilitation.

“I’m not playing collegiate. I can’t. I want to study sports medicine.”

“Why? Why is that so important to you when… If I promise to stay, will you play?”

“Nothing you do will get me to play again.”

He shakes his head and trains his eyes on the volleyball leaving Kageyama’s fingertips, only for it to be slammed to the ground by Bokuto. Impressively, the spike is received low by Argentina’s libero, and the game continues.

Iwaizumi is checking on Oikawa more often than he isn’t, he realizes about halfway through the set. Oikawa isn’t in the game at the moment, having been subbed out by another setter who is doing remarkably well. He doesn’t sit near his athletic trainer, so he obviously wasn’t pulled for a health concern.

Perhaps their trainer isn’t concerned, but Iwaizumi is done lying to himself. He is concerned, and it’s going to drive him to insanity before the game is over. There are all these little habits that Oikawa has never presented before. They couldn’t have developed overnight from his last match to this one. And then there is his breathing. The Argentina setter’s breathing is off-set — weirdly irregular in the rises and falls of his chest. Unless he’s having a panic attack, which Iwaizumi is quite certain he isn’t because Oikawa is showing none of his other overstimulated symptoms aside from his sliding fingers, then there is something physically wrong with Oikawa.

Or maybe Iwaizumi’s mind is simply looking for something to worry over. He’s never grown out of it. Of the twenty-seven years of his lived life, he has spent twenty-four of them concerned for Oikawa. He didn’t stop when they were deep in arguments about the future. He didn’t stop when they were thousands of miles apart, separated by an ocean and a twelve-hour time difference (and for two years, a four-hour difference and one long car ride away if need be). He certainly isn’t stopping now when Team Japan needs his watchful eye more than ever.

Besides, he thinks a little desperately. I’m too far away to see him clearly. It’s all a trick of the eye.

Argentina takes the third set at twenty-six to twenty-four. Oikawa set and served the last point, and Iwaizumi was well aware he had stared long enough for people to notice.

“Omi-kun,” Miya calls, making his way over to the benched player. “Here, water.”

Sakusa stands to meet him halfway, only to promptly collapse into Miya’s arms in an honestly skilled save. His fingers scrap at Miya’s elbows, and the panicked setter drags him back to the bench. Immediately, Iwaizumi gets to work stretching out Sakusa’s leg and rolling his calf muscles.

“Fuck. Fuck, fuck, fuck .” Sakusa gasps intermittently. With Miya at his side and the crowd falling into a hushed silence at the display, the whole scene kind of looks like he’s giving birth, and Iwaizumi is the poor midwife. “I didn’t— I didn’t even feel it coming. Shit. ”

Iwaizumi glances up at Miya. God, he even looks like the worried father who’s wondering what more he can do to support his laboring wife. 

Sakusa shrugs Miya’s hand off his shoulder, hissing: “Quit touching me.”

The rest of the team piles onto Sakusa to give him their strength and condolences. Sakusa, for his part, seethes from their pity and the overstimulation they’re causing. Iwaizumi barks for them to leave. Someone must have flashed an okay sign to the audience because soon the dome is overtaken by a sudden, thundering applause.

From the other side of the court, the Argentinian team gets up from their kneeling position and claps politely. Sakusa gives them little acknowledgment, so Iwaizumi half-bows for him.

Oikawa pointedly stares at the floor, one hand pressing against his chest while the other rests limply at his side after he finishes clapping. His back is now turned, away from Iwaizumi, and he can see the hunched shoulders and the uneven pacing of his breathing. It’s not exhaustion. He knows exhaustion like the back of his eyelids and can compare his players’ fatigued panting to Oikawa’s struggle for air.

It’s not the same. It’s not the same.

If Oikawa has a problem, Iwaizumi reminds himself, he has his own athletic trainer to attend to him. He hasn’t needed Iwaziumi’s support for eight years; he certainly isn’t going to randomly start now.

Sakusa is the one who needs him, because Sakusa is his player, and his player is gripping the bench with white knuckles and an expression of pain and frustration. This is something Iwaizumi can help with. This is the job he has spent his entire adult life training for.

As with all things in life, sometimes what someone needs isn’t physical. Sometimes what they need is a distraction.

“Help me with something,” Iwaizumi says, succeeding in capturing Sakusa’s attention. “Akaashi’s in the stands somewhere. We need to find him before Bokuto loses his head.”

Even though some of the team members have never met Akaashi Keiji in person (which Iwaizumi has, since they attended the same university and remained friends after), they all know what he looks like based on the astonishing amount of pictures of him Bokuto shows them every week. Iwaizumi has been watching the players closely, as per his job description, and has taken note of the wild swiveling of Bokuto’s head whenever there is even the slightest attention break from the game. While seated, his near-erratic behavior worsens tenfold. Instead of supporting his team from the sidelines, his wide eyes roam the crowd fervently.

If he doesn’t spot Akaashi soon, Iwaizumi is one hundred percent sure they are going to have a very dramatic meltdown. Which would be both embarrassing for their home country and an extreme hindrance to the team’s functionality.

Sakusa grimaces, looking rather oddly at him before turning his head to the audience.

“You’re attentive,” he says after a brief hesitation. “I hate it.”

“You hate a lot of things,” Iwaizumi responds neutrally.

The distraction does work, though. The outside hitter settles down into his normal state of being: slightly disgusted and irritated with everyone around him, as opposed to being extremely disgusted and irritated with everyone around him. While they are going through a round of dynamic stretches in the middle of the fourth set, Sakusa stops dead in his tracks and stares intently at one spot in the stands. “Found him.”

Iwaizumi sighs in relief. “Finally.” From where he is on the sideline, Bokuto looks about five minutes away from a predicted, total meltdown. “When we’re done with this, tell him the good news. I need to get Komori off the court before he passes out.”

The libero in question runs a hand through his hair, no doubt coming away with an exorbitant amount of grime and sweat. “Too attentive,” Sakusa says again, this time with more forced agitation to mask the layer of distress in his tone.

Iwaizumi is pretty sure he knows what that’s about, too, but doesn’t say anything to spare Sakusa the embarrassment and probable heart attack. They don’t really need a player dropping like that, even if said player is already sidelined.

He manages to get Komori off the court without incident, and the ruckus Bokuto makes after Sakusa points out Akaashi to him is far better than the other outcome should they have failed in their mission to locate Bokuto’s favorite human being.

His gaze slides back onto the court, finding Oikawa’s body immediately. He hates his heart. It twists in his chest with longing and unsubstantiated concern. The near-decade they’ve spent apart means nothing to his pulsing organ, as though it thinks he’s a child again and walking to Oikawa’s house to beat his ass at Mortal Kombat.

Although, the clogging in his throat reminds him more of when he rode the subway back from the hospital after his best friend’s knee gave out, or when he started prodding Oikawa to eat every day because teenage athletes are the most prone to eating disorders and Iwaizumi hadn’t seen him eat lunch once in the past week.

Twenty-five to twenty-three. Japan wins the fourth set.

The fifth set will determine it all, and it won’t be easy. His players look ready to drop. They’ve pushed themselves harder than they have this entire Olympic tournament. However, their morale and adrenaline are through the roof. If they can keep their spirits up through the next fifteen required points, they can win.

The last set starts, and despite everything — the trepidation making it hard to breathe, his whirling thoughts, the desperation to convince himself that he is hallucinating symptoms — Oikawa Tooru is still the best goddamn setter he’s ever seen.

Now that Sakusa has nothing better to do with the anxiety and pressure of the last set that will determine the winner, he speaks to Iwaizumi. “What is it?”

“What is what?” Iwaizumi asks somewhat absently, intently focused on the game in front of him. He never stopped loving volleyball despite the change in the profession. A part of him still wants to run out and hit the ball with every last bit of his strength.

Argentina calls a time-out to stifle the flow of the game. Oikawa sways, but they don’t take him off the court. They need him.

Sakusa grunts. “Don’t play dumb. You’ve been staring at Oikawa-san this entire game. What’s wrong?”

Iwaizumi has half a mind to bite back with “ Why do you care?”, but doesn’t because that would be unprofessional. He knows Sakusa is restless, agitated, and worst of all, starting to perceive Iwaizumi as a threat to his personal security. According to him, Iwaizumi is too attentive, which means that he can reveal the secrets Sakusa wants to keep buried.

He isn’t that type of person. He hasn’t gone out of his way to find out anything about his players that doesn’t specifically pertain to their medical records, and even if he does find out the things Sakusa doesn’t want him to know, Iwaizumi wouldn’t spill it to the world. It isn’t his story to tell.

So, he answers with a little honesty no matter the insensitivity of the question, because that is the only way to make Sakusa cool down — to make him think that he’s gotten Iwaizumi to crack. “I keep thinking there’s something wrong with him. Medically, I mean. I’m sure it’s nothing. His trainer would’ve spoken to him by now if there was a problem.”

I’m sure it’s the eight years where I never got to check up on him coming back to haunt me, he doesn’t say. That’s a little more honesty than Sakusa deserves.

The game continues. Fourteen to fourteen. They are down to the last wire.

“Bullshit,” Sakusa says, surprising Iwaizumi. “How long did you say you knew him?”

He’s certain that Miya has already told him, but he responds anyway.⁴ “Fifteen years.”

“Iwaizumi-sensei⁵, you’ve been with this team for a couple of months and you already know each of us like the back of your hand. I’ve never met someone as hypervigilant as you. You know I’m going to cramp before I know I’m going to cramp,” he says. “You’re really doubting yourself about someone you’ve spent half your life with?”

Iwaizumi looks at the player, who’s giving him an open expression that conveys, plainly, you’re being an idiot.

Fifteen to fourteen.

Sakusa rolls his eyes at Iwaizumi’s dumbfounded face. “Trust your instincts, because from what I’ve seen, they’ve never led you astray. Hell, I’d let you perform open heart surgery on me, and you’re not even a surgeon.”

He’s pretty sure that’s the nicest thing Sakusa has said in his life. Ever.

Iwaizumi swivels back to Oikawa. He’s jumping in the air to set the ball for a spike, or a dump, or something that will bring his team to victory. Looking down, Iwaizumi finds his ankles swollen beyond normal. 

Open heart surgery.

“Holy shit,” Iwaizumi whispers, all of the air leaving his lungs.

Sixteen to fourteen. Team Argentina wins Olympic gold.

He’s on the court before Sakusa is. He’s across the net before Argentina can celebrate their victory. He’s grabbing Oikawa’s shoulders tightly before anybody else can get to him. Iwaizumi stares into his estranged best friend’s glassy, confused, uncomprehending eyes. 

He’s shaking Tooru’s shoulders, desperate as he yells: “You are having a heart attack!”

Tooru’s voice is strangled and hoarse between his gasping breaths in mangled Spanish Iwaizumi doesn’t understand. Not a second later his dilated pupils, distorted from his eye contacts, roll back to expose solid white sclera and red veins. He keels over, limp, and Iwaizumi starts screaming for a stretcher and an ambulance. Laying him on the ground, he puts his palms over Tooru’s chest to start compressions.

And suddenly, Hajime is fifteen again, hovering over Tooru as he sobs on the boards of the gym they use to practice volleyball during the off-season. “It hurts,” he’s crying, clutching his knee. “It hurts!” Hajime doesn’t know what to do aside from calling one-one-nine. He tells the operator their location and the details of their situation while he lets Tooru claw his forearm into welts, knowing that whatever pain Iwaizumi feels is being felt a thousandfold by his best friend.

And Hajime is fifteen and three-quarters, learning emergency CPR for his new part-time job as a lifeguard. He thinks that it could come in useful. He thinks that saving people isn’t a job he would mind.

And Hajime is sixteen, watching Tooru recover from his surgery, and he realizes he will never play professional volleyball. He wants to help people like Tooru forever — people who want to dedicate their whole life to a sport but have a body that strives to prevent their goal every step of the way. He can’t do that as a player on the court.

And Hajime is seventeen, trying to convince Tooru to eat a sandwich even though he is adamantly insisting he isn’t hungry. He discovers sports medicine isn’t just about the physical ills and pains. To be a good athletic trainer, he has to see every aspect of a player’s well-being, and that includes their mental health.

And Hajime is eighteen, standing alone in the airport and experiencing loss for the first time. In order for Oikawa to grow as an athlete, he has to cut away the weed strangling his roots. Hajime lets him without complaint. This is part of his new career, after all; if he helps athletes succeed, they would all, one day, leave his medical care.

And Hajime is twenty-seven, losing his best friend for a second time at the end of the first set of chest compressions. At least three ribs have cracked under his pace and pressure. He pinches Tooru’s nose, pries his jaw open, and breathes air into his lungs twice. His ring and pinky finger automatically find his pulse point.

Nothing.

Seeing that no medical equipment has arrived, he starts the second set of chest compressions. Oikawa’s bones creak and give way under his desperation. He knows CPR like the back of his hand; if the ribs are breaking, that means it’s working. It doesn’t get rid of the panic and pain at the thought of how much damage he’s doing to Oikawa’s body.

The paramedics are a second too late with their LUCAS device at the end of the last compression. He dives down for another round of mouth-to-mouth, recognizing, faintly yet viscerally at the same time, that Oikawa’s soft skin is pale and rapidly cooling.

At the junction between his neck and jaw, Iwaizumi searches for a heartbeat.

Breathe. Nothing.

Breathe. Nothing.

Then, the faint brush of life against Iwaizumi’s fingertips.

He helps the paramedics load Oikawa onto the stretcher. They roll him away from the court, leaving behind Iwaizumi in a daze. That wasn’t how he wanted to meet Oikawa again. That wasn’t how he wanted to talk to him, feel him, or see him; wasn’t how he’d wanted to have Oikawa’s lips on his like he’d dreamt about so many times in his teenage years and again, occasionally, in his adult life when he’s had too much to drink. 

The head coach of the Argentina team, Jose Blanco, Oikawa’s long-term idol, steps in front of him. “English?” He asks in said language, and Iwaizumi nods automatically. Blanco etches a small smile onto his face. “Thank you for your help. You saved his life.”

Iwaizumi stares at Blanco, all of the English he’s ever learned and spoken suddenly fleeing from his memory. How does he say that they aren’t out of the woods yet, that Oikawa’s heart could still fail at any moment and refuse to start beating again? How does he say that this may be the problem that finally kills the life Oikawa has sacrificed everything for? How does he say that he honestly fears the day that Oikawa can’t play volleyball anymore because he’s an absolute fucking maniac and would rather take his own life than let the universe sweep the rug out from under him?

How does he say that he’s currently living in a reality that is dancing too close to his worst nightmare?

“It was no problem,” he settles for.

“You are Iwa-chan, yes?”

Iwaizumi freezes. He hasn’t heard that nickname in nearly a decade. His high school friends never called him that unless they were teasing him, which faded a week or so after Oikawa left because while he was never the first to bring Oikawa up, he was always the first to cut the topic short. Takeru grew out of it in a couple of months. Nobody else in the right, sane mind would ever call the stoic, mean-looking, and too-attentive Iwaziumi Hajime Iwa-chan.

Except, of course, Oikawa Tooru, who always had a deep and utter hatred for giving his peers a modicum of respect.

It’s somewhat funny hearing the name come from a large Argentinian who lacks both the lightness in which Oikawa would say it and a Japanese accent to make the honorific sound natural. He almost laughs. He thinks that it must make Oikawa laugh, too.

Having rehearsed it in the mirror a thousand times and put it to real use a dozen more, his English introduction rolls off his tongue easily. “Iwaizumi Hajime, athletic trainer for the Japan National Team.” He sticks out his hand, which the head coach uses to bring him into a tight hug. And he doesn’t want to ask when they pull apart, because Blanco is chuckling lightly and he no doubt wants to celebrate his victory, but the words are tumbling out of his mouth anyway. “He… calls me that?”

“Oh, kid—” Iwaizumi is twenty-seven years old “—he never stops talking about you. Last night was horrible. He went on and on. I thought you were, uh, a woman. Guess not.”

Oh. Oh, God.

He doesn’t have time to process… everything since Blanco starts waving over his team. Iwaizumi tries to escape, but they all grab onto his hands or his shoulders or pat him on the back. He’s hearing a lot of Spanish and English, with the occasional horrifically pronounced Japanese word passing through their mouths. He gets the jist of it, though, as the captain of the team presses an object into his right palm.

Tómas Gallo pulls him in and presses a kiss into both of his cheeks. “Thank you, Iwa-chan. He would be honored if you took the gold medal in his place.”

Overwhelmed, he pushes away and returns to his team, who are huddled on the other side of the net. The world starts coming back to him in fractured pieces. He eyes the audience, who seem to all have their gazes trained on him.

It doesn’t really occur to him that he’s just saved the world’s best setter (not just by Iwaizumi’s standards. Not anymore. The whole world recognizes now what he’s sensed since they were seven years old on the city’s little league team). In the heat of the moment, and even still, with the lingering feeling of Oikawa’s bones creaking and snapping under his palms, of his still heartbeat and rolled-back eyes repeating in his after-vision, it’d only been him saving his best friend, just like he always has.

He looks down at his hand, finally registering that he’s holding something. Slowly unraveling his fingers, he stares down at the small keychain. It’s a miniature Japanese flag with Iwaizumi’s faded signature scribbled over it in black Sharpie ink. He’d slipped it unknowingly into Oikawa’s backpack just before he’d disappeared to the security checkpoint, leaving his entire childhood behind.

After several attempts to message him a day later asking about the flight, he had found out his phone number was blocked. He couldn’t view any of Oikawa’s social accounts when he had checked. When he had gone to Hanamaki and Matsukawa, they had shrugged and said they didn’t know anything, either.

Iwaizumi lets himself drop the keychain into his pocket. Setting his shoulders and calming his expression, he rejoins the team with an apologetic wave.

He thinks that he’s holding himself together well, all things considered. His heart isn’t failing. He doesn’t pace around the large gymnasium. His face is emotionless when everyone else seems to be looking at him with worry. His knees are pressing against the court boards. His fingernails are digging into his skin. Someone is wrapping their arms around his shoulders.

He breaks down on live television.

—

Tómas Gallo hands him Oikawa Tooru’s gold medal in a quiet hallway after the adornment ceremony.

On a count of three, Iwaizumi bites the gold medal with the captain of the Argentinian Men’s National Volleyball Team. His tongue accidentally scrapes the edge of the medallion. The cold metal tastes indistinguishable from blood.

It checks out, really. Iwaizumi has always believed that Oikawa's veins pulse with ichor. 

Gallo’s hand comes to squeeze Iwaizumi’s shoulder. He says: “Tooru says he could not have made it without you. We thank you for letting us have him.”

Iwaizumi doesn’t tell him that before he became Iwaizumi Hajime, twenty-seven years old and well-known among the most important people in the world of sports medicine, he was first and foremost Iwaizumi Hajime, three years old and playing in the sandbox when a boy wearing an alien-themed shirt dumped squirming worms all over him. He doesn’t remember it, exactly, since he was three and hadn’t developed that part of his brain yet, but his mother told him that he had tried his best to beat Oikawa to death with a plastic shovel.

He doesn’t tell Gallo that he could never have made it, either, if it hadn’t been for that little asshole and his handful of dirt-covered earthworms. Oikawa had stolen a piece of soul and shaped his future that day with his grubby hands, insufferable personality, and heart of pure gold.

Gallo doesn’t say anything more when the athletic trainer chokes down a sob.

—

“Oikawa-san is recovering from emergency surgery, Iwaizumi-sensei. He’s in good hands,” someone tells him. Their voice disintegrates like sand falling between his fingertips.

Iwaizumi breathes.

¹ In the real 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Argentina won bronze and Japan came in seventh. However, the real Argentina did not have THE Oikawa Tooru, and the real Japan didn’t have… everyone. Clearly, this is not the real Olympics. I will take my creative liberties where I can get them.

² Here, you can start to see my complete and utter lack of knowledge about volleyball. And the Olympics.

³ His roommate at UC-Irvine put him on Kitchen Nightmares and he hasn’t been the same since.

⁴ They will never admit it, partly because they think they are subtle, but everyone knows that Atsumu and Sakusa gossip with each other like the main characters of Mean Girls.

⁵ —Sensei, because that seemed like the most accurate honorific to use in relation to his job as a medical professional but not a medical doctor. If you believe this to be horrifically inaccurate, let me know and I’ll change it. I am obviously not Japanese. Usually I don’t even use honorifics in fics, but I decided to this time so I could empasize Iwa-chan.

[umichenginabroad]

Madrid Week 12: I got got (Morocco, part 1)

Hola a todxs! Niko back here with week 12/13/14 of studying abroad in Madrid! Don’t fear, I will not be going on any esoteric rants about time or something this time (except for the fact that I have 45 days left in Madrid, damn). Instead, I wanted to take this blog to write about the experience I had visiting northern Morocco this weekend with a tour group. Spoiler alert, it was awesome, and I’ve had a ton to reflect on. Moroccan culture is unlike any that I’ve experienced in my life (which makes sense, as I’ve only ever traveled in Europe, the Caribbean, and the Americas), and I had the pleasure of being immersed in it while simultaneously meeting new people. Since there’s so much to unpack, I decided to split this blog up into two parts, for the two legs of this trip. Let’s dive in!

Smart on the inside

This trip has definitely been a highlight of my travels thus far, and looking back, I really got the best of both worlds. I went on this trip with a tour group from a company called Smart Insiders, which helps young people in Madrid (especially those coming from abroad) find housing, get involved in community activities, and most importantly, travel. I would not recommend Smart Insiders, or any tour group for that matter, if you’re a serial planner when it comes to travel and need to fit in every item on your bucket list — or someone who prefers to wander a city, choosing what to explore based on vibes alone.

With that being said, I would highly recommend Smart Insiders — or tour group experiences in general — if you fall somewhere in between those two extremes. Traveling with a tour group means that there’s a pretty rigid schedule to every day, but if you don’t mind letting go of the reins and can just ride the flow set by the tour guides, you can have as amazing of an experience as I did (given that the tour company is good. Smart Insiders was).

A month or two back, I signed up for the trip alone. A friend had recommended it based on a trip he took to Spain’s Basque country. When I saw that they had a trip to Morocco, I immediately resolved to sign up. I had wanted to experience traveling in a tour group again after my first time in Buenos Aires (where I met Gaia, my italian friend I visited and wrote about many weeks back!), and Morocco was a bucket list travel destination for me. Given that the culture was so distinct from what I was used to, I figured that it might be nice to have the whole trip planned out for me ahead of time. 

So, I paid a reasonably low price for the group (~200 euros for 3 days of travel, tours, housing, etc), bought the plane tickets fro Air Arabia, and forgot about it until last weekend. Flash forward a month or two, and I was immediately buffeted by an arid wind as I stepped off Plane that had just landed in Tangier. Once we were through customs, I was greeted by a Moroccan man named Saied and a large congregation of around twenty familiar faces from the flight over, mostly 20-something year-old Americans with some Canadians, French, and a Belgian sprinkled into the mix (majority of which were English teachers). Smart Insiders collaborated with a Moroccan tour company to put together this trip, for which the entire itinerary had already been laid out.

We piled onto our little tour bus and started getting to know each other. As we departed towards our first destination, Asilah, I was flashed with deja vu from the bus scene on the way to Iguazu Falls, Argentina. A highlight of that trip was the people I met, and I stepped away from it with one key takeaway: people who like to travel are, almost by definition, open to new experiences. That attitude extends towards their interactions with others. Consequently, I knew that I would meet interesting people this weekend, and if not, I was assured that I could always keep myself company — especially with an entirely new landscape and culture to explore.

Both Worlds

Which two worlds was I referring to in the section above, you may ask? Solo and group traveling.

I came alone on this trip, which meant that I had no allegiances or obligations to anyone but myself and the schedule set by the tour leader. During our blocks of free time on the trip, I could choose where to go, what to do, and who to do it with — and to be honest, I spent most of my free time in Morocco wandering around by myself. Call me fascist or impatient, but I don’t really like the democracy (and associated waiting) that comes along with traveling in a large group of people — especially if they don’t know each other well. 

When I travel alone, I can do whatever I feel like, at my own pace, which was a luxury in the ultra-dense Souks in Morocco. I’ve found that my self confidence in new environments has really blossomed this semester simply because of the amount of weird cultural situations I’ve had to navigate by myself. Without this, I would have never had the confidence to break away from the group, and I’m proud of myself for getting to the point that I could do so comfortably. 

“But wait Niko,” you may ask, “Didn’t you just say last week that traveling with close friends is always better”. Why yes, my friend, I did (might I add, very conveniently, and actually not on purpose). Seeing the world with close friends gives new depth and meaning to the things we experience while traveling. 

I chose to be alone a fair amount on this trip, true. However, the majority of my time spent was with the group. Together, we went on guided tours, shared meals, spent many hours on the bus chatting (and sleeping), rode camels, and more. I can’t say for certain if I’ll meet up with anyone on this trip again in the future (shoutout Gaia again :) ), but I learned something from everyone I met (especially the two french girls on the trip! merci!) that I’ll take with me now for the rest of my life. By the time we rolled up to the airport together on Sunday, I felt that we had all really bonded. I knew almost everyone’s names, and relished in the feeling of being part of the tiny temporal community we had formed — a community which would never exist again, which made it all the more special. If you have the opportunity sometime, join a tour group and go somewhere cool for the weekend! It’s a unique adventure that I think everyone should experience at least once (and it’s soft on the bank account, too ;) ).

Hell-o Morocc-o!

So, now about Morocco itself, the focal point of the trip, which was one I’ve been looking forward to for the entire semester. As I mentioned, this trip would be my first time in Africa, and my first time experiencing a non-western culture. I certainly was not disappointed (sorry about the lame title of this section. I’m embarrassed).

Moroccan culture is a mix of Arab, Berber, African, and European cultures, but to an outsider like myself, the Islamic/Arabic influence came across most strongly. We visited Asilah, Tangier, and Chefchaouen, all of which are located in the northernmost tip of Morocco, bordering the strait of Gibraltar. Consequently, Spanish is a very common second language to Moroccans, after their native dialect of Arabic. More often than not, Moroccans would start interactions with our tour group in Spanish (and oftentimes, we would respond back to them in Spanish, too B) ). French and English are also very commonly spoken, and an impressive number of people I interacted with were fluent in all three.

We started the trip in Asilah, a small town on the west coast of Morocco’s northern tip, known for its quiet beauty and art scene. It was very calm and incredibly peaceful. One of our local tour guides, Hasan, led us on a short route through the city where we took our first look at a Moroccan city. We had lunch (freshly caught swordfish) and departed, spending the rest of the day hopping around different sites in the region: the caves of Hercules, the Cap Spartel lighthouse, and a beach on the side of the highway where we all took our turn to ride on a camel (which I wasn’t a big fan of — more info in the picture description). 

We finished at Tangier, where we checked into our hotel and departed for a group dinner at a traditional restaurant. The food was delicious, and we got a little surprise too. I finished the night drinking some mint tea and eating some flatbread at a little bar in a square. Yum.

In general, the food in Morocco was amazing. I’m a big fan of the Mediterranean/Arabic spice palate (and mint tea, although it was a little sweet to my liking), and that’s all we ate the whole weekend. One mini takeaway that I realized: I think food in America has trained my palate to desire more salt than is used in other countries. In Morocco (and Spain, Italy, at times) I often found the a bit undersalted. There’s nothing inherently wrong with this (or maybe not… nearly 90% of Americans consume sodium at levels which exceed amounts recommended by the 2015–2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans), but it’s interesting to be aware of.

We spent the next day exploring Tangier’s Medina (historic city center). The streets were narrow, the architecture was beautiful, and the shopping was plentiful and diverse. The shopping district had a vibe that was completely distinct to any I’ve visited before, people were bustling, things were colorful, and every few steps we’d get a whiff of some heavenly spicy soapy or incense-y smell.

We visited a pharmacy (where I picked up authentic Moroccan Argan oil), a textile shop (I got an epic cotton-cashmere scarf), and various shops selling artisan goods and souvenirs (a sick black woven belt, some postcards). Shopping in Morocco has a distinct vibe for one very special reason: none of the items have set prices.

Dance battle in the souk

If you weren’t aware, if an item has no price tag in a Moroccan shop in the Souk (market area), you have to bargain/haggle to get a good price. Crudely and metaphorically, haggling is somewhat like a dance battle, with each dancer attempting to gracefully undercut the other’s bluff with their words, body language, and actions. You can’t make a starting offer that’s too low, because then you’ll risk the vendor laughing in your face (consequently relinquishing all your power). You can’t show too much interest in the product because then the vendor knows that you would be willing to pay a higher price. But you can’t show too little, or you’ll hit a stalemate and they won’t be willing to negotiate further. Maybe it’s like judo or something, using the opponent’s body weight against them, something like that.

Having watched a few youtube videos about haggling strategy on the plane ride over, I was ready to roll when I stepped into a huge artisan shop. Every action was intentional. I found a woven leather belt that I really fancied — but focused my attention towards other items until I was ready to make an offer. The vendor gave me a starting offer of 350 Dirham (Moroccan currency, ~35 euros). I countered with 100 (seems low, I know. you’re supposed to counter with ⅓ of the original price and go from there). After a good amount of back and forth (trying desperately to hide my steadily rising heartbeat and sweaty palms from showing on my face or in my voice while a few other shopkeepers and another member of the tour group watched the battle ensue), we reached a stalemate. I pulled out my ultimate trump card: I started to leave, to show that I I didn’t care that much (I totally did, this belt was sick). He called me back to make me a cheaper offer to keep me around, around 200 Dirham. I said 150, take it or leave it. Deal made. Boom. Great success, and now that belt holds a little more meaning that it would have if I had just picked it off a shelf.

My biggest fail? In a shop shelling scarves. The vendor was hyping me up, saying I must be so smart if I speak so much Arabic (I knew like 4 phrases), where am I from, what languages do you speak, etc. etc. Then I found a scarf. He offered me 100 dirham for a Pashmina scarf (which was not handmade, but beautiful nonetheless), I countered with 30. The vendor pulled out the “he’s not like other vendors” tactic, said that he prefers not to start with a crazy high price, and thus doesn’t have much room to go down. He was a really nice guy, I believed him. We settled on two scarves for 170 Dirham, and I left happy. I proceeded to walk through the Souk, seeing  scarves of the same maker hanging up at a nearby shop. I asked how much for one, he told me 80 dirham. Damn, I got got. The other guy was intentional with every action, he knew what he was doing. Well played bro. 

Haggling like this was exciting, it let me practice a skill I didn’t have, it was totally new. I felt culturally immersed, and got some cool things out of it that I’ll have as a memory. Although at times it was stressful, I kind of wish more people did business like this in the USA. It would be fun.

But simultaneously, I felt a good amount of resistance when I first started practicing the skill. I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was being incredibly cheap offering a third of their asking price, especially when in theory, I could have afforded it. There’s a lot of nuance with this surrounding the privilege I carry with me when I travel — more on that in the next blog. 

Overall, Tangier has a good vibe. Downtown is very modern, which is in stark contrast to the old-town artsy vibe of the Medina. We left in the late afternoon to Chefchaouen, the “Blue Pearl”, which was my favorite leg of the trip… more on that in the next blog, along with some important commentary/reflection…. Stay tuned!

As always, thanks so much for reading :). Check out the image descriptions for more details, and I’ll see y’all in the next post!! You can read it here.

Salam,

Niko Economos

Aerospace Engineering

Universidad Carlos III de Madrid

Madrid, Spain

economos@umich.edu 

[dontfeeltoohot]

Sick JQ + caretaker JCB pls! They seemed almost inseparable today. I'm just imagining JCB with his lil travel pack of tissues offering them to JQ in the ride over to the con this morning.

“How’re you feeling love?” Jamie looks over at him in the car they’re riding in to the convention center.

It’s not the first time he’s been asked the same question by his best friend (and maybe something more), and he knows it won’t be the last. Joe’s been running on empty since the Dior show last weekend, while Jamie had been in Argentina.

“Definitely not the best,” the younger man mumbles, walking over to plop himself down next to the blonde.

Joe’s being generous if he’s honest. His throat’s killing him, a pulsing headache is starting to make itself known, he’s a little achy and exhausted. Shivering from the intense cold that Paris has decided to greet them with, the younger man adjusts his beanie more firmly on his head and coughs away from Jamie, cheeks feeling too warm, body too chilled. He sniffles a couple of times as his nose starts to run.

“Here, take one,” Jamie produces a small, travel size pack of tissues, holding it out.

“Th-snf! Thanks…” Joe snags a tissue and rubs his nose with it, already turning a light shade of pink.

“You’d better be taking it easy today,” The blonde shoots him a pointed, motherly look.

“And if I don’t? Going to make me?”

“Mm, this fever seems to be making you a right bit cheeky today,” Jamie’s eyes are bright with amusement.

“That or I’m losing it,” Joe teases back, wincing when it hurts his throat.

They step out of the car when it stops at their destination. People are all outside, lined up to see them and wave. Joe blows his nose quietly, ignoring when Jamie stares at him, stuffs the tissue into his pocket, slips his glasses on and gets out, knowing its going to be a long few days.

[safereturndoubtful]

At New Ing

Friday 15th September 2023

Yesterday was a day reading an apocalyptic Uruguayan horror novel and watching Uruguayan rugby, quite fittingly, with them producing their best ever World Cup performance by pushing the hosts, France, close.

The Rugby World Cup will occupy quite a bit of my time in the next 6 weeks, at least though it’s mainly only at weekends. It certainly has started well.

It’s of particular interest to me this time, with my previous involvement in rugby in so many of the countries..

For five years I coached 8 of the 23 Chile squad that played Japan, and two others in their squad,

The Portugal squad has 3 that I coached, though this time only briefly (just one season).

The Uruguayan squad has 7 from the Old Christian’s club. This was the club that lost so many players in the plane crash in 1974, on their way to play their annual fixture in Chile, against the Old Boys club where I was to be involved for five years, from 2007. We visited Uruguay for rugby twice while I was in Chile, and hosted them in the other years. These 7 played against my boys.

We travelled to Argentina three times each year for rugby, staying for a week each time.

I lived, coached and refereed rugby (and cricket) in the South Island of New Zealand for three years also.

Otherwise, it’s been a week or preparations of various sorts, with various tweaks to the van and the admin necessary for heading to the Balkan countries.

I’m still based on the top field at New Ing in Shap. We had a week of warm and humid weather that soon became unpleasant, and culminated in a 5 hour thunder storm last Sunday, and has now given way to much cooler, and more usual, changeable conditions. Most exercise has been down by the river, though two dogs became one when Roja’s cousin injured his back leg. Fortunately it looks like it’s healing pretty quickly.

There’s a regular visit from the kids who never get tired of climbing around the van and, especially with Arthur, playing up every dangerous item possible, the gas oven, the knife drawer, the fire extinguisher..

Last Monday I got a replacement diesel heater fitted, and it works well. These Chinese heaters aren’t expensive, but are very efficient. It’s a pity they have such a short lifespan, another of those bits of technology that are not designed for repairing.

I’m away from Shap on Monday morning, initially up to Carlisle to see my American niece and nephew, then over to Hexham for a consultancy at the clinic the next morning.

My destination then is Folkestone for the Eurotunnel, but after that, remains a mystery.. even to me.

I think it’s likely that I will head to the Balkans, as I’m expecting my next appointment at Hexham to be 3 - 5 months, maybe even longer. But it just might be less than that, so I do retain an option to spend that time in Northern Europe.

Matters such as Roja’s entry to the various non-EU countries, and car insurance for those countries seem as complicated as ever. I’ve just about got the information I need, but the agencies that one would expect would have the answers, do not.

Either way, there will be a more regular blog post from next Wednesday, 20th September..

[theeleventhhour]

Hello! For the ask thing:

- Do you have any plans for Christmas and New Year’s?

- What are you looking forward to in the coming months?

- What’s your favorite food to eat and why?

- If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live and why?

- What’s your dream job?

- What’s your top travel destination at the moment and why?

Hope you’re no longer bored and best of luck on your exams! ☺️

- For Christmas I think this weekend or the next I'll be going out with my uni's friends to walk around the city and bars and for new year's I'm going out with my town friends to a discotheque. Since I moved out and I don't have family here we are going to spend the holidays with a couple who are friends with my parents since they were youth and they are the reason we are here, maybe with one of my best friends who moved from Argentina here a couple months ago if he hasn't have to work

- Since I passed my Italian text I’m so excited to do the exchange, I just hope they’ll accept me. This is the only thing I can’t think about now

- I suck to pick my favourite things because I like almost everything 😅 but I think pasta because of his versatility: you can eat with veggies, in a soup, stuffed, in a salad, with whatever you want goes well

- I think London, I went there in 2018 and all I think about since it is coming back. I love the language, the culture, the atmosphere. The way are musicians everywhere popping out, the old buildings and the flashy neighbourhoods like Camden or Chinatown. Besides it’s a big city and every artist you can think for sure would play a concert there, so wouldn’t have to travel hehe. And I have a lot of museums (and bars) to visit too

- An archaeologist and travel around the world discovering things, but after working in an excavation in the summer I’d prefer being one of the directors rather than doing the hard work😂. Also I see myself like the historians who speak in documentaries and doing tourists guides in museums or historical places

- Well I think I hinted this one in the early questions haha, but I’d love to visit Ireland and Egypt too since I never been there because of the historical things and culture of course

Fortunately I’m not bored anymore, I’m just a little bit tired at the train going on to my class. Also I’m happy because we won the World Cup match and we are in the final! That’s why I haven’t been around here yesterday. Thank you for always been so considerate! How you doing btw?

[tasteinworld]

Check out some fantastic places to travel in Summer, in this video you will find the three most beautiful destinations to visit this summer.

Locations📍

1| The Black Fort, Ireland

2| Patagonia Mountains, Argentina

3| Brazil

Get the best deals on Flights and hotels here: https://bit.ly/travelagencyio

Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travel_motherearth/

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

Travel Demand For Brazil Is Skyrocketing – Here’s Why Americans Love It

Brazil may be the largest country by territorial extension in South America, home to a plethora of natural landmarks that need to be seen to be believed, and a vibrant multicultural scene. Despite its huge size and potential, it is not the most sought-after destination in the continent, being easily overshadowed by Argentina, Colombia, and Chile in terms of arrival numbers – but this could soon change.

According to the latest survey carried out by the Brazilian Ministry of Tourism, which tracks tourism trends across the country’s top destinations, Brazil hosted more than 3.63 international tourists in 2022, still lower than the pre-pandemic levels of around 5 million, but a 500% increase compared to 2021.

Compared to 2019, the South American giant remains 43% below expected levels, but this sharp rebound is laudable, nonetheless. Despite never shutting down its borders for inbound travelers for the best part of the pandemic, Brazil took a hard hit from COVID, scaring away potential customers as deaths soared and infections spiraled out of control.

Continue reading.

[tripnest]

Adventure Awaits: Top Adventure Packages for Thrill Seekers in Argentina

Introduction Argentina, with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, is a haven for adventure seekers. From the towering peaks of the Andes to the stunning glaciers of Patagonia, this South American gem offers an array of thrilling experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top adventure packages available in Argentina, providing insight into the activities, destinations, and unforgettable experiences that await. Hiking in Patagonia: A Journey through Nature’s Wonderland One of the most popular adventure packages in Argentina is the trekking experience in Patagonia, specifically in Los Glaciares National Park. This package often includes multi-day hikes along the iconic W Trek, where adventurers can marvel at breathtaking landscapes, including towering mountains, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife. The W Trek Experience The W Trek is renowned for its challenging yet rewarding trails that span approximately 70 kilometers. Hikers typically spend 4 to 5 days navigating through this stunning terrain. Guided tours are available, providing not only safety but also expert insights into the region’s geology, flora, and fauna. Daily hikes often lead to panoramic viewpoints like the iconic Torres del Paine and the serene Glacier Grey. Accommodation Options Accommodation options during the trek range from camping under the stars to staying in cozy lodges. Campsites are strategically located, allowing trekkers to enjoy evening meals with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. For those preferring a more comfortable experience, eco-lodges offer cozy rooms with amenities, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. Glacier Perito Moreno Hikers can expect to traverse the famous Glacier Perito Moreno, witnessing the awe-inspiring calving process as massive chunks of ice break off and crash into the water below. Optional ice trekking experiences on the glacier are also available, where adventurers can strap on crampons and explore the icy landscape while guided by experts. Surfing in Punta del Este: Ride the Waves For those who crave the thrill of the ocean, a surf package in Punta del Este offers the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. This coastal city is known for its beautiful beaches and excellent surf conditions, making it a popular destination for surfers of all levels. Surfing Lessons and Guided Sessions Surfing lessons with experienced instructors cater to beginners, ensuring they learn the fundamentals of surfing safely. More experienced surfers can join guided sessions that explore the best surf spots along the coastline, including popular breaks like La Barra and José Ignacio. Vibrant Nightlife After a day on the waves, participants can unwind at local beach bars, enjoying fresh seafood and the vibrant nightlife that Punta del Este has to offer. The city is famous for its lively atmosphere, with numerous restaurants and clubs that come alive at night, allowing surfers to relax and mingle with fellow adventure seekers. Skiing in the Andes: An Alpine Adventure During the winter months, the Andes mountains transform into a winter wonderland, attracting ski enthusiasts from around the globe. Adventure packages in the skiing regions of Mendoza and Bariloche provide opportunities for both skiing and snowboarding, with stunning views of snow-capped peaks and pristine alpine lakes. Ski Resorts and Amenities Packages often include lift passes, equipment rentals, and accommodation in ski resorts, allowing travelers to enjoy the slopes with ease. Popular ski resorts like Cerro Catedral in Bariloche offer a wide range of runs suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. Après-Ski Activities Off the slopes, adventure seekers can indulge in après-ski activities, including wine tastings at local wineries or relaxing in hot springs nestled in the mountains. Mendoza, famous for its Malbec wines, provides an excellent opportunity to sample local vintages while enjoying picturesque vineyard views. Wildlife Watching in Iguazú National Park For a different type of adventure, wildlife watching in Iguazú National Park is a must-do for nature lovers. Adventure packages in this UNESCO World Heritage site typically include guided tours through lush rainforests and breathtaking waterfalls. Exploring the Rainforest Participants can embark on boat rides that take them close to the falls, providing an adrenaline rush as they experience the power of nature up close. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including toucans, coatis, and even jaguars, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Unique Experiences Guided night tours are also available, offering a chance to witness the rainforest come alive with nocturnal creatures. These tours provide a unique perspective on the park's ecosystem and allow visitors to appreciate the beauty of Iguazú after dark. Conclusion Argentina offers a wealth of adventure packages that cater to thrill-seekers of all kinds. Whether you’re trekking through the stunning landscapes of Patagonia, riding the waves in Punta del Este, skiing in the majestic Andes, or exploring the wildlife-rich rainforests of Iguazú, each experience promises excitement and unforgettable memories. Adventure awaits in this vibrant country, inviting travelers to explore its natural wonders and embrace the spirit of exploration. From exhilarating outdoor activities to breathtaking landscapes, Argentina is a destination that will leave you with stories to share and a desire to return.   Read the full article

[lsundarinfo]

Discover Argentina: A Traveler’s Guide to Adventure, Culture, and Natural Beauty

Argentina is a dream destination for travelers, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. From the dynamic urban life of Buenos Aires to the serene wilderness of Patagonia and the towering peaks of the Andes, this South American gem promises unique experiences for every type of tourist. Here, we'll explore everything you need to know to plan your visit to Argentina, covering costs, top spots to eat and stay, driving tips, camping advice, and essential scenic locations.

Planning Your Budget: Travel Expenses in Argentina

Traveling through Argentina can be surprisingly affordable, with costs depending on your preferences for comfort and activities. Here’s a general breakdown:

With a favorable exchange rate, Argentina is an accessible destination for budget travelers without sacrificing experience quality.

Culinary Highlights: Argentina’s Must-Visit Restaurants

Argentina’s food culture is deeply rooted in its history and landscapes, with dishes showcasing the best of local ingredients. Here are a few notable dining experiences:

These restaurants highlight Argentina’s culinary versatility and showcase the country’s passion for food.

Where to Stay: Top Hotels for a Memorable Experience

Argentina has a range of hotel options, from luxury to eco-friendly stays, all offering a comfortable and unique experience. Here are some of the top-rated choices:

Each of these accommodations is situated in Argentina’s most scenic regions, making them perfect bases for exploring the country’s wonders.

Driving in Argentina: Rules and the International Driving Permit

Driving through Argentina is an excellent way to explore at your own pace. Here’s what to know if you plan on hitting the road:

Renting a car in Argentina allows you to explore regions like Patagonia and the Mendoza wine country at your own pace, making it an ideal option for adventurous travelers.

Solo Travel and Camping in Argentina

Argentina is an excellent destination for solo travelers due to its friendly locals and efficient travel networks. Solo travel is generally safe, but it’s wise to follow basic precautions, especially in remote areas.

Camping and solo riding provide a unique opportunity to experience Argentina’s stunning natural beauty up close and at your own pace.

Argentina’s Top Scenic Spots

Argentina’s diverse landscapes make it a paradise for nature lovers. Here are a few must-see spots:

Wrapping Up: A Journey to Remember

Argentina is a land of contrasts, where urban sophistication meets unspoiled nature, and traditional culture blends with modern life. Whether you’re camping under the stars, enjoying a tango performance in Buenos Aires, or hiking through Patagonia, Argentina promises a captivating experience that will stay with you long after you leave. Embrace every moment, indulge in the unique flavors, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Safe travels, or as the locals say, “¡Buen viaje!”

[failbluedot]

Discover the Unforgettable Dining Experience at Paraje Arevalo

Nestled in the heart of Buenos Aires, Paraje Arevalo is more than just a restaurant; it is a culinary destination that promises an unforgettable dining experience. From its inviting atmosphere to its meticulously crafted dishes, Paraje Arevalo takes guests on a journey that celebrates the rich flavors and traditions of Argentinian cuisine. This hidden gem has quickly become a favorite among locals and travelers alike, offering a delightful escape for food enthusiasts seeking something extraordinary.

As guests step into Paraje Arevalo, they are greeted by a warm and welcoming ambiance, characterized by elegant decor and soft lighting. The restaurant’s design blends modern aesthetics with rustic charm, creating an inviting space that is perfect for intimate dinners or lively gatherings with friends and family. The attentive staff is ready to guide diners through the culinary experience, ensuring that every need is met from the moment they arrive.

The culinary journey at Paraje Arevalo begins with a diverse menu that showcases the best of Argentinian flavors. The talented chefs take pride in using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, allowing the natural flavors to shine through in each dish. From traditional empanadas to contemporary interpretations of classic Argentinian dishes, the menu is a delightful exploration of the country’s gastronomic heritage.

One standout dish that exemplifies the restaurant's commitment to quality is the asado, a traditional Argentine barbecue that features an array of expertly grilled meats. The chefs at Paraje Arevalo use time-honored techniques, marinating the meats with a blend of spices before slow-cooking them to perfection. Diners can choose from a variety of cuts, including succulent ribeye, tender lamb, and juicy pork, all served with house-made chimichurri sauce that adds a zesty kick. The combination of flavors and textures creates a memorable dining experience that showcases the essence of Argentine cuisine.

For those seeking lighter fare, Paraje Arevalo offers an impressive selection of fresh salads and vegetable dishes. The seasonal salad, for example, features locally sourced greens tossed with vibrant heirloom tomatoes, creamy burrata, and a drizzle of balsamic reduction. Each bite bursts with freshness, making it the perfect complement to the heartier meat dishes.

As the culinary journey unfolds, guests are encouraged to explore the restaurant's extensive wine list, which highlights the best of Argentine vineyards. With options ranging from robust Malbecs to crisp Torrontés, the selection has been carefully curated to pair perfectly with the diverse flavors on the menu. Knowledgeable staff members are available to assist diners in choosing the ideal wine to enhance their meal, ensuring that each sip complements the dining experience.

No visit to Paraje Arevalo would be complete without indulging in dessert. The dessert menu features a selection of house-made sweet treats that celebrate the rich culinary traditions of Argentina. The dulce de leche flan, a classic dessert, is a must-try for those with a sweet tooth. The creamy custard is topped with a generous drizzle of dulce de leche and served with a sprinkle of toasted coconut, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that is simply irresistible.

For more information, visit the official website vegabiofuels.com

In addition to its exceptional food, Paraje Arevalo also hosts regular events and culinary workshops, inviting guests to immerse themselves further in the world of Argentine cuisine. From cooking classes led by skilled chefs to wine tasting events, there is always something exciting happening at the restaurant. These experiences provide an opportunity for diners to learn more about the culinary techniques and ingredients that define Argentinian cuisine, enhancing their appreciation for the dishes they enjoy.

The restaurant's commitment to sustainability is also noteworthy. Paraje Arevalo strives to minimize its environmental impact by sourcing ingredients from local farmers and utilizing eco-friendly practices in its operations. This dedication to sustainability not only supports the local economy but also ensures that diners enjoy fresh, high-quality ingredients that are in harmony with the environment.

As word spreads about Paraje Arevalo’s culinary offerings, the restaurant has garnered a loyal following, with guests returning time and again to savor the unforgettable dining experience. The combination of exceptional food, attentive service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Buenos Aires.

In a city known for its vibrant culinary scene, Paraje Arevalo stands out as a beacon of quality and creativity. Whether you are a lifelong fan of Argentinian cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore its flavors, the restaurant promises an extraordinary journey that will leave a lasting impression. With each dish telling a story and each sip of wine evoking a sense of place, dining at Paraje Arevalo is an experience that transcends the ordinary.

For those planning a visit to Buenos Aires, making a reservation at Paraje Arevalo should be at the top of your list. With its dedication to culinary excellence, warm hospitality, and a commitment to showcasing the best of Argentine cuisine, this restaurant is poised to create unforgettable memories for all who enter its doors. Whether you come for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a night out, Paraje Arevalo offers a culinary journey that you will not soon forget.

[cosmosim]

The Best Travelling Wine Tasting in Different Destinations

The best travelling wine tasting experiences take you to renowned wine regions around the world, from Napa Valley to Tuscany, Bordeaux to the Barossa Valley. These curated tours allow you to sample exquisite wines, learn from expert vintners, and explore stunning vineyard landscapes. Each destination offers its own unique flavours and winemaking traditions, creating a rich, immersive experience for wine lovers. Perfect for combining travel with a passion for wine, these tours are unforgettable adventures.

The Heart of American Wine of The Most Famous Wine regions in The World of Travelling Wine Tasting

Napa Valley, California, is one of the most famous wine regions in the world, making it a top destination for travelling wine tasting. With its award-winning wineries, scenic vineyards, and iconic Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa offers personalised wine tours and tastings. Visitors can enjoy everything from private cellar experiences to food pairings, making it a must-visit for any wine enthusiast.

The Historic French Wine Haven Known As History and Exceptional Blends of Travelling Wine Tasting

Bordeaux, France, is another prime destination for travelling wine tasting, known for its rich history and exceptional blends. This region produces some of the world’s finest wines, including Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Wine lovers can explore historic châteaux, participate in guided tastings, and immerse themselves in the deep-rooted French winemaking traditions that have shaped the industry.

Tuscany’s Chianti and Brunello Adventures Blend The Beauty CountrySide of Travelling Wine Tasting

For those seeking a travelling wine tasting experience with picturesque views, Tuscany is the ideal destination. Known for its stunning landscapes and delicious Chianti and Brunello wines, Tuscany offers tours that blend the beauty of the countryside with exceptional wine tastings. Visitors can tour charming vineyards, meet local producers, and indulge in authentic Italian wine culture.

Australia’s Shiraz Paradise is A Top Travelling Destination for fan of Bold with Travelling Wine Tasting

Australia’s Barossa Valley is a top travelling wine tasting destination for fans of bold, full-bodied wines. Famous for its Shiraz, this region offers intimate tastings at boutique wineries and large-scale vineyards alike. Travellers can take part in vineyard tours, barrel tastings, and enjoy food pairings featuring local Australian produce, all while soaking in the beautiful, sun-drenched landscapes.

A Taste of the Cape of South Africa, Introduces visitors of Travelling Wine Tasting

Travelling wine tasting in Stellenbosch, South Africa, introduces visitors to a vibrant wine scene known for Chenin Blanc and Pinotage. The region offers a mix of modern and historic wineries, stunning views of the Cape Winelands, and expertly curated tastings. The unique terroir and flavours make Stellenbosch a must-visit for adventurous wine lovers.

Argentina’s Malbec Mecca Its A Favourite Destination for Travelling Wine Tasting

Argentina’s Mendoza region is synonymous with Malbec, and it is a favourite destination for travelling wine tasting. With its high-altitude vineyards and impressive mountain views, Mendoza provides unforgettable tasting experiences. Visitors can enjoy vineyard tours, wine pairings with local cuisine, and learn about the region’s distinctive winemaking techniques.

The Sauvignon Blanc Star of Scenic Beauty and Excellence of Travelling Wine Tasting

Marlborough, New Zealand, is renowned for its crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc. Travelling wine tasting tours in this region offer a mix of scenic beauty and wine excellence. Visitors can explore innovative winemaking practices and enjoy tastings that showcase the vibrant, zesty flavours that put New Zealand on the global wine map.

Conclusion

Travelling wine tasting across the world’s top regions offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse winemaking traditions, flavours, and landscapes. From the rolling hills of Tuscany to the sun-drenched vineyards of Barossa Valley, each destination provides a distinct experience. Whether you’re a fan of bold reds or crisp whites, travelling wine tastings allow you to dive deep into local cultures while savouring the finest wines the world has to offer. Each trip becomes a celebration of wine, food, and stunning views, making it an essential experience for wine lovers worldwide.

[besttimetogo2]

When is the Best Time to Go to Buenos Aires? Your Ultimate Travel Guide

Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital of Argentina, is a city that pulses with life, culture, and history. Whether you're drawn to its bustling tango scene, rich culinary traditions, or stunning architecture, knowing the best time to visit can make your trip even more enjoyable.  When is the best time to go to Buenos Aires? Let's break it down.

Spring (September to November)

Spring is arguably one of the best times to visit Buenos Aires. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The city comes alive with blooming jacaranda trees and vibrant outdoor festivals. Spring is ideal for strolling through the city's beautiful parks and neighborhoods, enjoying alfresco dining, and attending cultural events. This is also a great time for those interested in experiencing the local fashion scene, as Buenos Aires Fashion Week takes place in October.

Summer (December to February)

Summer in Buenos Aires is hot and humid, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C (86°F). This is the high season for tourists, so you’ll find the city bustling with activity. While the heat might be intense, the summer months are filled with outdoor events, concerts, and festivals. If you enjoy lively atmospheres and don’t mind the heat, summer could be the perfect time to experience Buenos Aires’ energetic nightlife and street festivals. Just be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen!

Autumn (March to May)

Autumn is the another excellent time to visit Buenos Aires. The weather is cooler and more comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 22°C (50°F to 72°F). The city’s parks and streets transform with beautiful fall colors, creating picturesque scenery perfect for photography and leisurely walks. Autumn is also a great time to explore the city’s rich cultural scene, including theater performances and art exhibitions. Plus, the crowds are smaller compared to the summer months, making for a more relaxed experience.

Winter (June to August)

Winter in Buenos Aires is relatively mild compared to any other destinations. Temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C . While it can be chilly, especially in the evenings, it’s an excellent time for those looking to avoid large tourist crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience. Winter is ideal for exploring the city’s indoor attractions, such as museums, historic sites, and cozy cafes. You might also find great deals on accommodation and flights during this off-peak season.

Additional Tips for Planning Your Trip

Festivals and Events: Buenos Aires is known for its lively festivals throughout the year. If you’re interested in specific events, like the Buenos Aires International Book Fair in April or the Tango Festival in August, plan your visit around these dates.

Cultural Insights: Argentinians typically take their vacations in January and February, so some local businesses might be closed or have reduced hours. However, many tourist spots remain open.

Budget Considerations: Prices for flights and accommodations can vary based on the season. Booking in advance and comparing prices can help you get the best deals.

In conclusion, the best time to visit Buenos Aires largely depends on your preferences. For pleasant weather and lively cultural scenes, spring and autumn are ideal. If you enjoy vibrant summer festivities or prefer quieter winter explorations, Buenos Aires has something to offer year-round. No matter when is the best time to go Buenos Aires promises an unforgettable experience filled with warmth, passion, and a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication.

[travelsbliss]

Best Places to Visit in Córdoba, Argentina: A Guide for U.S. Travelers Are you interested in exploring the heart of Argentina's colonial history? Córdoba, with its stunning Jesuit architecture, vibrant student population, and beautiful sierras, is a destination that offers a unique blend of history and modernity. This guide is designed for U.S. travelers eager to discover the best places in Córdoba. Whether you're visiting the Manzana Jesuítica, exploring the Parque Sarmiento, or enjoying the lively nightlife, Córdoba promises a rich and diverse experience. 🏛️🇦🇷 📍 Discover Córdoba: Best Places to Visit in Córdoba, Argentina - A Guide for U.S. Travelers

[travelworldwithtravelarii]

Discover the Best Vacation Rentals in Buenos Aires for an Unforgettable Stay

When planning your trip to Argentina's vibrant capital, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial for a memorable experience. The city offers a range of accommodations, but if you're looking for a home-away-from-home experience, vacation rentals in Buenos Aires provide the perfect solution. With options that cater to every budget and taste, you can immerse yourself in the city's rich culture while enjoying the comforts of a well-appointed apartment or house.

Why Choose Vacation Rentals in Buenos Aires?

Buenos Aires is a city that effortlessly blends European elegance with Latin American passion. With its historic neighborhoods, bustling markets, and world-renowned nightlife, it's a destination that offers something for everyone. Vacation rentals in Buenos Aires allow you to experience the city like a local, giving you the freedom and flexibility that hotels often can't match.

Whether you're staying in the bohemian San Telmo district, the chic Palermo neighborhood, or the historic Recoleta area, vacation rentals offer a more personalized and intimate experience. You'll have the opportunity to explore local markets, cook your own meals, and enjoy the privacy of your own space. Plus, with many rentals located in the heart of the city's most vibrant areas, you'll never be far from the action.

Top Neighborhoods for Vacation Rentals in Buenos Aires

1. Palermo: The Trendy Hub

Palermo is one of the most popular neighborhoods for vacation rentals in Buenos Aires. Known for its tree-lined streets, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife, this area is a favorite among young travelers and families alike. Palermo is divided into several sub-neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm. Palermo Soho is famous for its fashion-forward shops and cafes, while Palermo Hollywood is the place to be for dining and entertainment.

Staying in a vacation rental in Palermo means you'll be close to some of the city's best attractions, including the Botanical Gardens, the Evita Museum, and Plaza Serrano, a hub for nightlife and weekend markets. The neighborhood's walkability and accessibility to public transportation make it an ideal base for exploring the city.

2. Recoleta: The Elegant Escape

For those seeking a more upscale experience, Recoleta is the perfect choice. This neighborhood is known for its French-inspired architecture, luxury boutiques, and historic sites. Vacation rentals in Recoleta often feature stunning views of the city, spacious interiors, and elegant décor.

Staying in Recoleta puts you within walking distance of some of Buenos Aires' most iconic landmarks, including the Recoleta Cemetery, where Eva Perón is buried, and the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes, which houses an impressive collection of Argentine and European art. The neighborhood is also home to some of the city's best restaurants, making it a great choice for food lovers.

3. San Telmo: The Bohemian Haven

San Telmo is the oldest neighborhood in Buenos Aires and is renowned for its bohemian vibe, cobblestone streets, and antique shops. Vacation rentals in San Telmo offer a unique glimpse into the city's history, with many properties featuring original architectural details and vintage furnishings.

This neighborhood is the heart of Buenos Aires' tango culture, and you'll find plenty of milongas (tango dance halls) and live music venues to explore. On Sundays, the San Telmo Market is a must-visit, with stalls selling everything from antiques to artisanal foods. Staying in San Telmo allows you to immerse yourself in the city's cultural heritage while enjoying a relaxed and artistic atmosphere.

Benefits of Choosing Vacation Rentals

1. Space and Privacy

One of the biggest advantages of choosing vacation rentals in Buenos Aires is the space and privacy they offer. Unlike hotel rooms, vacation rentals provide multiple rooms, fully equipped kitchens, and often outdoor spaces like balconies or terraces. This is especially beneficial for families or groups traveling together, as everyone can have their own space to relax.

2. Cost-Effective for Longer Stays

If you're planning an extended stay in Buenos Aires, vacation rentals are often more cost-effective than hotels. Many rentals offer discounts for longer stays, making them an economical choice for travelers who want to spend more time exploring the city.

3. Live Like a Local

Vacation rentals give you the opportunity to live like a local. You can shop at nearby markets, cook your own meals, and experience the daily life of Buenos Aires residents. This immersive experience allows you to connect with the city's culture in a way that staying in a hotel simply can't provide.

4. Unique and Personalized Accommodations

From stylish lofts in Palermo to charming colonial houses in San Telmo, vacation rentals in Buenos Aires offer a wide range of unique and personalized accommodations. Whether you prefer modern amenities or historic charm, you're sure to find a rental that suits your taste and enhances your travel experience.

Tips for Booking Vacation Rentals in Buenos Aires

1. Book Early, Especially During Peak Season

Buenos Aires is a popular destination year-round, but the peak season is during the southern hemisphere's summer (December to February). If you're planning to visit during this time, it's a good idea to book your vacation rental well in advance to secure the best options.

2. Check Reviews and Amenities

Before booking a vacation rental, be sure to read reviews from previous guests. This will give you an idea of the property's condition, location, and the host's responsiveness. Additionally, check the amenities offered to ensure the rental meets your needs, whether that's Wi-Fi, air conditioning, or a fully equipped kitchen.

3. Consider the Location

Buenos Aires is a large city, and each neighborhood offers a different experience. When choosing a vacation rental, consider what you want to see and do during your stay. Whether you want to be close to the nightlife in Palermo, the cultural attractions in Recoleta, or the historic charm of San Telmo, make sure the location aligns with your travel plans.

Final Thoughts

Choosing vacation rentals in Buenos Aires is an excellent way to experience the city's unique charm and vibrant culture. With a wide range of options in some of the city's most desirable neighborhoods, you're sure to find the perfect place to call home during your stay. Enjoy the freedom, comfort, and local flavor that vacation rentals offer, and make your trip to Buenos Aires truly unforgettable.