26th August 2007

We arrived into Buenos Aires this morning just before 8.30am. We got a taxi to the Buquebus (boat-bus) port. Only trook an hour to get to Colonia, Uruguay. Then we got on a coach to Montevideo, and transferred to 'Hotel Los Angeles'. Dumped our bags and headed out on to the streets to check out this country. It is a public holiday today in Uruguay so hardly any shops are open, but lots of people about. We drew out 600 Uruguayan pesos which is the equivalent of around 12 quid. to last us the short 24 hours flying visit to this country. Walking along the streets i felt nervous, im constantly aware of my belongings and people in my proximity and find that people are looking at us. it probably didn't help that we were both wearing Australia jumpers, so we stuck out like a sore thumb. Some little scrote came up to me and wanted my freshly lit cigarette. When i refused, he spat and shouted "b****" after me in Spanish - "PUTA". But it was only afterwards i realised that that situation could have been far more dangerous, as you are advised that if you are mugged in South America, to hand over the goods as `people aren't afraid to use their weapons. Seeing as its a public holiday here, i still managed to find my shot glass tho!! hehe. For tea we went to a restaurant a couple of blocks down, and had spinach ravioli with bolognese. it was nice but very filling and a bargain for less than 2 pounds 50! Have to use the provided blankets tonight me thinks as our room is really cold!