Clare writes:
We arrived on the night bus from Mendoza. I had certain conceptions of what 'South American Buses' would be like and,as far as the south is concerned, my conceptions were almost entirely wrong! IN fact Argentina is famed for its luxury buses - semi-cama comfy recliners with big footrests, or the fully recumbent cama buses... we even got 3 course dinner with Cabernet Sauvignon and movies! Not that pricey either!

Despite not slepping particularly well for all these comforts (sore throat developing), I immediately took a shine to Buenos Aires. Our hostel, the Garden House, near the San Telmo area, has a really nice homey feel - very chatty incumbents and helpful staff. I wasn't even too horrified by the city's famed 12-lane highways in the centre, although the crossings are a bit scary!!

We wandered around San Telmo, stumbling upon the arty little Plaza Dorrigo where a young couple were doing a tango demo - the city is the home of the dance and there are tango shows and figurines everywhere!! So we sat in the sun and watched - very nice. I'd expected worse weatherand it's usually rainier but every day is crisp, clear and blue-skyed. No rain since Rotorua!! BUt still, feeling as rough as a bear's arse as my own cold gets worse.... sinking fast!