Gadling http://www.gadling.com Gadling http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Gadling http://www.gadling.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Hollywood In Cambodia: Buenos Aires' Only Bar and Urban Art Gallery In One]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/29/hollywood-in-cambodia-buenos-aires-only-bar-and-urban-art-gall/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/29/hollywood-in-cambodia-buenos-aires-only-bar-and-urban-art-gall/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/29/hollywood-in-cambodia-buenos-aires-only-bar-and-urban-art-gall/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

hollywood in cambodia Buenos Aires in Argentina has one of the most vibrant art scenes in all the world. Walking down the streets of the city, you'll see colorful, political and passionate works of graffiti art on every corner. If you're looking for a truly unique way to experience the art scene in Buenos Aires, one option is to visit the city's only bar and urban art gallery in one, Hollywood in Cambodia.

Hollywood in Cambodia opened in 2006, when the owners of Post Street Bar decided to do something different with the space. They approached a number of stencil artists and asked them to help paint the interior of the bar. While the artists and owners got along well, the artists wanted compensation, as the bar was a commercial space. Because the owners didn't have the money, they came up with a different plan. They offered the artists three rooms at the back of the bar, rent free, to use however they pleased. From there, the artists covered every inch of the bar and terrace with intricate stencil art. One room became a permanent gallery and shop, and the two others were transformed into temporary exhibition spaces. This is what visitors can experience today.

Continue reading Hollywood In Cambodia: Buenos Aires' Only Bar and Urban Art Gallery In One

Hollywood In Cambodia: Buenos Aires' Only Bar and Urban Art Gallery In One originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 29 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>artart and cultureArtAndCulturebuenos airesBuenosAiresuniqueSun, 29 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring The Most Colorful Mountains In The World In Purmamarca, Argentina]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/27/exploring-the-most-colorful-mountains-in-the-world-in-purmamarca/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/27/exploring-the-most-colorful-mountains-in-the-world-in-purmamarca/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/27/exploring-the-most-colorful-mountains-in-the-world-in-purmamarca/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

PurmamarcaFor backpackers traveling through Argentina, a unique day trip is from Salta and San Salvador de Jujuy. Located in the province of Jujuy, the small pueblo of Purmamarca not only offers the chance to browse an expansive handicraft market and sample the local delicacy of llama meat, but also surround yourself with seven colors of mountains.

While many landscapes feature various greens, browns and yellows blending together in beautiful patterns, the mountains of Purmamarca, one of which is aptly named the Seven Colors Mountain, hold strikingly vibrant and contrasting colors and landscapes. A bright purple hillside, lush with vegetation, could be sitting inches away from a slope of orange fairy-chimneys and cacti. What's more, the shades seem to radiate from the mountains into the air, making you feel like you're wearing rainbow-tinted glasses. It's one of the most surreal hikes I've ever done.

According to the area's informational board, the Seven Colors Mountain is an outcropping of rocks from different time periods. The variety of colors come from the accumulation of sediments from when the area was underwater, 600 million years ago. In fact, the mountain has the oldest maritime sediments in the province of Juyuy. For a visual idea of the experience, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: The Colorful Mountains Of Purmamarca, Argentina

Exploring The Most Colorful Mountains In The World In Purmamarca, Argentina originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelbackpackingcolorful mountainsColorfulMountainshikingphotosPurmamarcaFri, 27 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Cheesey Street Foods Of Latin America]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/27/cheesey-street-foods-of-latin-america/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/27/cheesey-street-foods-of-latin-america/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/27/cheesey-street-foods-of-latin-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

With the possible exception of Argentina, most people don't associate Central or South America with cheese. Like all of Latin America, these countries are a mix of indigenous cultures, colonizing forces, immigrant influences, and varied terroir, climatic extremes, and levels of industrialization. They possess some of the most biologically and geographically diverse habitats on earth. As a result, the cuisine and agricultural practices of each country have developed accordingly.

The use of dairy may not be particularly diverse in this part of the world, especially when it comes to styles of cheese, but it's an important source of nutrition and income in rural areas, and a part of nearly every meal.

While writing a book on cheese during the course of this past year, I tapped into my rather obsessive love of both street food and South America for inspiration. As I learned during my research, the sheer variety of cheesey street snacks from Mexico to Tierra del Fuego are as varied as the ethnic influences responsible for their creation. Read on for a tasty tribute to queso.

Arepas: These flat little corn or flour cakes from Colombia, Venezuela and Panama may be grilled, baked, boiled, or fried. They're usually stuffed or topped with a melting cheese, but may also feature meat, chicken, seafood, egg, or vegetables.

Anafres: Essentially Honduran nachos, composed of giant tortilla chips, refried beans and melted cheese. Named for an anafre, the coal-fired clay pot the dish is served in.

Pupusas: This Salvadorean staple is similar to an arepa: a thick, griddled corn cake stuffed with meat, cheese-usually a mild melting variety known as quesillo-chicarrones (pork cracklings), or queso con loroco (cheese with the buds or flowers of a vine native to Central America).

Continue reading Cheesey Street Foods Of Latin America

Cheesey Street Foods Of Latin America originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argentinean foodArgentineanFoodasasdosbrazilian foodbrazilian street foodBrazilianFoodBrazilianStreetFoodbreaking newsBreakingNewscentral american street foodCentralAmericanStreetFoodCentralParkcheesecheese breadCheeseBreadcolumbian foodColumbianFoodcomedycornculinary travelCulinaryTravelEcuadorean foodEcuadoreanFoodempanadasEmpanadasEmpanadafood marketsfood on a stickFoodMarketsFoodOnAStickhdtvindigenous foodsIndigenousFoodsmasamexican street foodMexicanStreetFoodperuvian foodperuvian street foodPeruvianFoodPeruvianStreetFoodprovoletaquesadillassalvadorean foodSalvadoreanFoodsouth american cheeseSouthAmericanCheeseSouthKoreastreet foodStreetFoodvenezuelan foodVenezuelanFoodFri, 27 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Meaning Of Mate In Argentina]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/24/the-meaning-of-mate-in-argentina/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/24/the-meaning-of-mate-in-argentina/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/24/the-meaning-of-mate-in-argentina/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

mateWhile upon first glance many people believe the locals in Argentina are drinking tea, but the concoction is actually a blend of herbs. Mate, an infusion prepared with yerba mate leaves called "Ílex paraguariensis," contains caffeine, herbs and proteins as well as hot water. It has been drunk since Pre-Colombian times by the Guaraníes, a local group in South America. Argentina is the world's number one producer of yerba mate, making this a great cultural experience to have while traveling in the country.

During my visit to Argentina, I saw people everywhere carrying thermoses of hot water and mates, metal cup-like things with bombillas, which are the long metal straws poking out. In every shop and market you will also be able to find ornate mates for purchase. Luckily, I got to try mine with a local friend and learn more about what mate means to locals in Argentina.

"It's merely an infusion, but it has a huge meaning of sharing," explained my local friend Javier Viñuela, whose mother had prepared some mate for a group of us in her home. "As it usually happens with food, drinking mate is a way or excuse to share with friends and family."

Continue reading The Meaning Of Mate In Argentina

The Meaning Of Mate In Argentina originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 24 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>art and cultureArtAndCultureculturedrinkfoodmatetravel tipsTravelTipsyerba mateYerbaMateTue, 24 Apr 2012 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Budget-Friendly Option For Wine Tasting In Mendoza: A Self-Guided Bike Tour]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/22/budget-friendly-option-for-wine-tasting-in-mendoza-a-self-guide/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/22/budget-friendly-option-for-wine-tasting-in-mendoza-a-self-guide/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/22/budget-friendly-option-for-wine-tasting-in-mendoza-a-self-guide/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

bikesAs soon as you step off the plane in Mendoza, Argentina, it will be obvious that you are in wine country. Billboards advertising different wine brands, neatly terraced vineyards and marketing for numerous wine tours, cooking classes and tasting sessions will be everywhere you look. While many of these options are worthwhile, most are very expensive. On a recent trip to Mendoza, however, I discovered a fun and inexpensive way to experience the best wine the region has to offer - a self-guided bike tour.

To get to Maipu, where "The Roads of Wine" are located, take Bus 10 from the city center. The ride will take about 45 minutes and you can ask the driver where you should get off. Once you get to Maipu, begin walking north and make a right onto Gomez Street. Here you'll find a charming house and sign that reads "Maipu Bikes." Immediately upon entering the wrought iron gates and talking to the wife of the family-run business, we were offered a glass of fresh juice, handed a map and given an in-depth analysis of each winery. The bikes are 35 Argentine Pesos (about $8) to rent for the day. However, when the owner noticed I was staying at Hostel Mora she gave me a 10 ARS$ discount, so let them know what accommodation you're staying at. Along with the bikes, we were given a bottle of water and backpack to keep our stuff in. With that and our map, we were prepared for a full day of wine tasting.

Continue reading Budget-Friendly Option For Wine Tasting In Mendoza: A Self-Guided Bike Tour

Budget-Friendly Option For Wine Tasting In Mendoza: A Self-Guided Bike Tour originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argentinabudget travelBudgetTravelchocolatedrinkecotourismfoodmendozawinewine tourWineTourSun, 22 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Experiencing The Beauty Of The World's Second Highest Peak: Cerro Aconcagua]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/22/experiencing-the-beauty-of-the-worlds-second-highest-peak-cerr/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/22/experiencing-the-beauty-of-the-worlds-second-highest-peak-cerr/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/22/experiencing-the-beauty-of-the-worlds-second-highest-peak-cerr/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

mountainCerro Aconcagua, located in Mendoza, Argentina, is a mountain in Aconcagua Provincial Park. At 22,841 feet, the mountain is the highest in the southern and western hemispheres. In fact, aside for the Himalayas, it is the world's highest peak.

To get to the park from Mendoza city center, take the Puente del Inca bus, which is 26.50 Argentine Pesos (about $6) each way. The excursion continues to be budget-friendly, as the entrance to Aconcagua Provincial Park is only 10 ARS$ (about $2). If you want to go to the base of the mountain, you will pay more, but only about $17 total. You can choose to simply hike the park for the day, as I did, or trek to the top of the mountain. This is only for the most fit of adventure enthusiasts, as the hike takes about 10 days each way and about three people die each year trying to make the ascent. Moreover, if you're going to go this route make sure to leave some time before the hike to fill out the necessary paperwork.

However you decide to explore the area, just make sure you do it. The contrasting landscape of the park almost seems unreal, as lagoons, prairie, grey stone, fairy chimneys, rainbow-colored rock and snow-capped mountains all inhabit the same area.

For a more visual idea of my day experiencing the beauty of Cerro Aconcagua in Aconcagua Provincial Park, check out the gallery below.

Update: A commenter below points out that the Himalayas have over 100 peaks about 2,400 feet, and we acknowledge that encompassing all those into one can be misleading. Moreover, she posts a great guide for those who want to actually hike to the top of the mountain. Rest assured, it's a glorious hike!

Gallery: Experiencing The Beauty Of The World's Second Highest Peak: Cerro Aconcagua

Experiencing The Beauty Of The World's Second Highest Peak: Cerro Aconcagua originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 22 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aconcaguaadventure travelAdventureTravelargentinabackpackingbudget travelBudgetTravelcerro aconcaguaCerroAconcaguaecotourismhikingmendozanaturephotossouth americaSouthAmericatrekkingSun, 22 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Argentina's National Pastime: Pato]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/21/argentinas-national-pastime-pato/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/21/argentinas-national-pastime-pato/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/21/argentinas-national-pastime-pato/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


While most people believe soccer to be Argentina's national pastime, I was surprised to learn from a local that it's actually something with very unsavory beginnings. Pato, or duck, is a game that combines polo and basketball, and is the national sport of Argentina. To play, two teams of four on horseback fight for possession of a ball that is equipped with six leather handles. The object of the game is to fling the ball into a tall net, as the team with the most goals is the winner. So why is the game called duck? Because in the early days, gauchos used a live duck instead of a ball. Back then, the game was so intense that many players lost their lives not only by being trampled by the horses, but also by being stabbed in moments of passion.

For a better idea on how the game is played, check out the video above.

Argentina's National Pastime: Pato originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 21 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argentinacultureduckgameshistorypatosoccersportsuniquevideoSat, 21 Apr 2012 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Budget Hiking Alternatives To Tierra Del Fuego In Ushuaia, Argentina]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/18/budget-hiking-alternatives-to-tierra-del-fuego-in-ushuaia-argen/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/18/budget-hiking-alternatives-to-tierra-del-fuego-in-ushuaia-argen/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/18/budget-hiking-alternatives-to-tierra-del-fuego-in-ushuaia-argen/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

ushuaiaWhen traveling to Ushuaia in Argentina's Patagonia region, the main attraction is trekking in Tierra del Fuego National Park. While absolutely stunning, a trip there can be expensive. Depending on what your travel plans are, you may want to try some cheaper hiking options in the area.

The first is Valle de Lobos. Transportation and admission to Tierra del Fuego from the city center costs 170 Argentine Pesos (about $40) round trip. While this may not sound expensive, just ask a backpacker who's been touring the continent on a shoestring budget. The bus to Valle de Lobos costs less than $15 round trip, and the entrance fee is only 10 ARS$ (about $2). At this lesser known - but still breathtaking - park, you'll be able to hike to Esmeralda Lagoon. The lagoon is majestic, as it gleams a metallic light-blue yet off-white color. Along the way, you'll trek through the Bosque Forest, Rio River and over the Puente Bridge.

Another budget-friendly hike is to Martial Glacier. This trek is absolutely free, as you can walk to the trailhead from the city center in about 40 minutes. You will first go through a winding forest, crossing over streams and bridges. Then you will trek uphill to the base of the glacier. It's a hike of beautiful contrasts, as you will be surrounded by vibrant foliage before climbing up snowy boulders.

For a more visual idea of these hikes check out the gallery below.

Gallery: Budget-Friendly Hiking in Ushuaia, Patagonia, Argentina

Budget Hiking Alternatives To Tierra Del Fuego In Ushuaia, Argentina originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 18 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelbudget travelBudgetTravelglaciershikinglandscapemountainspatagoniaphotostrekkingushuaiaWed, 18 Apr 2012 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Tips For Backpacking South America]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/17/tips-for-backpacking-south-america/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/17/tips-for-backpacking-south-america/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/17/tips-for-backpacking-south-america/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

south america Backpacking South America is a worthwhile adventure I recommend everyone to have at least once in their lives. Before I arrived on the continent, I was unsure of what to expect. To help prepare you before you go, here are some things I wish I had known before I left for my trip.

Know the Exchange Rate

The exchange rates vary considerably from country to country in South America. For example, while travelers can spend a lot of time in Bolivia and Peru, stretching their dollar very far, popular tourist cities in Brazil, Chile and the Galapagos Islands can be expensive. If you're on a budget, look up which cities are the most affordable beforehand. For example, I noticed in Argentina that the farther south I went - basically the farther into Patagonia - the
more expensive things cost. For example, my usual chicken sub went from being 10 to 15 Argentine Pesos ($2 to $3) in Buenos Aires to 45 to 60 Argentine Pesos ($10 to $14) in Bariloche.

Moreover, don't always think "roughing it" will save you money. Making use of the shelters on the "W" circuit in Torres del Paine and camping your way through the Inca Trail to Macchu Pichu are quite expensive. In fact, one night in a "refugio" in Torres del Paine will cost about $40 to $60 - and that only includes the mattress. Camping in the park is free if you bring your own gear; however, this can be tricky as the hike is difficult at times and you will have to carry your own
equipment. Moreover, to trek with a good company for the Inca Trail will cost about $500 to $650 for the trek.

Continue reading Tips For Backpacking South America

Tips For Backpacking South America originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 17 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelbackpackingbudget travelBudgetTravelhikingsouth americaSouthAmericaTue, 17 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hiking On Patagonia's Most Famous Glacier: Perito Moreno]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/15/hiking-on-patagonias-most-famous-glacier-perito-moreno/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/15/hiking-on-patagonias-most-famous-glacier-perito-moreno/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/15/hiking-on-patagonias-most-famous-glacier-perito-moreno/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

perito moreno While there are many excellent hiking destinations around the world, not many can hold a candle to the one of the planet's most picturesque glaciers, Perito Moreno. Famous for its one-of-a-kind forest and mountain views, Perito Moreno is said to be one of the only glaciers in the world that is still growing - about two to six feet per day. And for those who heard about the rare glacial collapse last month at Perito Moreno, don't worry, you can still trek it.

Recently, I wrote a post on hiking the trails in Los Glaciares Nacional Park. Looking at that gallery, it's hard to believe this is the same place. However, the park encompasses a variety of landscapes and experiences, all of which are worth exploring during a visit to Patagonia.

There are many striking features about Perito Moreno that pop out during the trek. One is its massive size - 1,740 miles in distance. The glacier has a 3.1-mile front and rises almost 200 feet above sea level. While hiking on it, it seems like an entire town could build a civilization on the ice. Additionally, the milky-turquoise color of the water is majestic and - combined with the crisp cool of the ice and serene silence - instantly puts a feeling of calm over you when you look at it.

Continue reading Hiking On Patagonia's Most Famous Glacier: Perito Moreno

Hiking On Patagonia's Most Famous Glacier: Perito Moreno originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 15 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelargentinael calafateElCalafateglaciershikingice trekkingIceTrekkingpatagoniaperito morenoPeritoMorenotrekkingSun, 15 Apr 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Where To Get The Best Empanada In Argentina]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/13/where-to-get-the-best-empanada-in-argentina/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/13/where-to-get-the-best-empanada-in-argentina/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/13/where-to-get-the-best-empanada-in-argentina/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

empanadaWhen hearing the word "empanada," many people immediately think of Argentina. The truth is, the type and taste of empanada depends on where you are in the country. Because of the different climates and geographies throughout Argentina, the best ingredients to cook with vary.

On a recent trip to Buenos Aires, I was sitting with a group of locals asking them about where to get the best empanada. "The north," they replied in unison.

I sulked. They didn't mean the northern area of the city, they meant the north of the country. Cities like Salta, Tucuman, Santiago del Estero and Jujuy are where natives agree the best empanadas are. Moreover, Mendoza, Cordoba and Rosario also have delicious empanadas, varying a bit from place to place. For example:
  • In Mendoza, traditional empanadas use a filling of beef, onion, egg and sometimes olives or cheese.
  • In Salta, potatoes, beef, chicken and sometimes even llama meat is used for the dish.
  • In Cordoba, empanadas are sweet, with white sugar, potatoes, olives and meat.
  • In Tucuman, the dish is cooked in a clay oven with lemon juice. Traditionally, the empanadas have beef, chicken and tripe; however, newer varieties also include cheese and onion.
  • In Jujuy, the addition of peas, pepper and onion give the meal a unique spice.

Continue reading Where To Get The Best Empanada In Argentina

Where To Get The Best Empanada In Argentina originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argentinabuenos airesBuenosAirescordobacultureempanadasfoodmendozasaltastreet foodStreetFoodtravel tipsTravelTipsFri, 13 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Hiking Los Glaciares Nacional Park In El Chalten, Argentina]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/12/hiking-los-glaciares-nacional-park-in-el-chalten-argentina/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/12/hiking-los-glaciares-nacional-park-in-el-chalten-argentina/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/12/hiking-los-glaciares-nacional-park-in-el-chalten-argentina/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

el chalten During a trip to El Calafate in the Patagonia region of Argentina, I asked a local travel agent about trekking options. I was informed the best place to do this was in a town called El Chaltén. Nicknamed the "trekking capital of Argentina," a traveler could spend days hiking around the beautiful mountains, forests and rivers of the area. Lucky for me, day trips are possible from El Calafate for 180 Argentine Pesos (about $41) round trip. The bus leaves from El Calafate at 8:00 a.m., and picks you up from El Chaltén at 6:30 p.m. Each way takes about three hours.

While I highly recommend spending a few days in El Chaltén to explore Los Glaciares Nacional Park and Mount Fitz Roy, it is possible to see a lot in just a few hours. In the gallery below, you can see my trek, which took me about four hours total. To access the Fitz Roy trailhead, cross town from the bus station via San Martin Avenue. Walk until the road ends and you'll see a sign that says "Sendero al Fitz Roy." Enter here, veering to the left, and follow the trail for Laguna Capri. You'll be able to complete a moderately intense circuit with unbelievable views that will make you feel like you're in a real-life Bob Ross masterpiece. From Laguna Capri, walk to Poincenot for excellent views of Mount Fitz Roy. Afterwards, continue walking in a circle in the direction of Mirador, another lookout point that makes for an excellent photography stop.

To see my experience, check out the gallery below.

Gallery: Hiking Los Glaciares Nacional Park in El Chalten, Argentina

Hiking Los Glaciares Nacional Park In El Chalten, Argentina originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 12 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adventure travelAdventureTravelargentinael chaltenElChaltenpatagoniaphotossouth americaSouthAmericatravel tipsTravelTipsThu, 12 Apr 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Magdelana's Party: A Rare Dining Experience In Buenos Aires]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/11/magdelanas-party-a-rare-dining-experience-in-buenos-aires/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/11/magdelanas-party-a-rare-dining-experience-in-buenos-aires/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/11/magdelanas-party-a-rare-dining-experience-in-buenos-aires/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

magdalena's partyWhen visiting a new city, it's important to become familiar with the local foods in order to better understand the culture. However, there are times when you might want to try a restaurant that offers something truly unique. In Buenos Aires, Argentina, that restaurant is Magdalena's Party.

Located in the Palermo SOHO neighborhood of the city, Magdalena's Party offers a truly American and street food-style combination of cooking that is not easily found in Buenos Aires. Specifically, California native and restaurant owner John Deutsch describes it as "California cuisine" with a street food influence. The fusion cooking is heavily influenced by Mexican and American cuisine with a bit of Asian flare. Moreover, ingredients are organic and the food is made from scratch without the use of preservatives and microwaving. To add a local touch, dishes use many fruits and vegetables from the region, like chilies, avocados, olives and kiwis. For example, while their everyday burritos and tacos offer a fresh take on street food in California, their Wednesday night popup menu, called POKE, offers tapas-style street food dishes. Offerings may include Thai chicken satay, Peruvian kebabs or Colombian-inspired fish tacos.

"Popup kitchens are growing worldwide," explains Deutsch. "We like it because we're a huge fan of the style of food, and in California cuisine you'll find quite a bit of Asian influence. POKE is also a very fresh style of food with all fresh ingredients, so it was a perfect match for Magdalena's Party."

Magdelana's Party: A Rare Dining Experience In Buenos Aires originally appeared on Gadling on Wed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>argentinabuenos airesBuenosAiresdrinksfoodmagdalenas partyMagdalenasPartyrestaurants in buenos airesRestaurantsInBuenosAiresstreet foodStreetFoodWed, 11 Apr 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Exploring The Diverse Landscapes Of Bariloche In Patagonia, Argentina]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/10/exploring-the-diverse-landscapes-of-bariloche-in-patagonia-arge/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/10/exploring-the-diverse-landscapes-of-bariloche-in-patagonia-arge/http://www.gadling.com/2012/04/10/exploring-the-diverse-landscapes-of-bariloche-in-patagonia-arge/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

bariloche San Carlos de Bariloche, more commonly known as Bariloche, is located in Patagonia in Argentina. It is one of the most diverse and picturesque regions in the world, and a hotspot for hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers. In fact, it is the most popular tourist destination in Patagonia, and the third in Argentina.

Some of the photos below were taken during a drive through Bariloche, while others were snapped during various hikes. The first hike was to Cerro Campanario, which presents a 360-degree view of the land from 3,442 feet high. You can take bus 20 there, which costs 6 pesos, and get off at the sign that says "Cerro Camanario." Note: Don't ask the monorail ticket seller for directions to the trailhead, as they tend to try to trick locals and give them wrong directions. Simply walk behind the sign and the trailhead will be there. It is a steep, uphill hike that takes about an hour. Once you make it to the top, however, the mountain, water, and forest views will have been worth it.

The other hike was up Cerro Catedral, a 7,835-foot high mountain with many different trails to trek. Most of the sections are intense; however, the diverse landscape of the area will keep you preoccupied. There are many slopes, jumps and special paths for other activities as well, like mountain biking, skiing, mountain boarding, rappeling and riding quads. To get there, you take the Catedral bus line, which costs 8 pesos. Unlike with the other buses, you pay the driver directly instead of purchasing a ticket beforehand.

The photos below were taken by me on a recent trip to the city. While I'm in no way a professional photographer, Bariloche in so stunning, the pictures seem to take themselves. No matter where you go in Bariloche, you'll be immersed in vibrant nature. See for yourself below.

Gallery: Beautiful Bariloche

DrivingDrivingDrivingDrivingDriving

Exploring The Diverse Landscapes Of Bariloche In Patagonia, Argentina originally appeared on Gadling on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 07:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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buenos aires Buenos Aires, Argentina, is a beautiful country with 200 years of history, graceful tango and a vibrant art culture that can be seen on every street corner. The city is completely flat, making it the perfect place to explore by foot. While there are many options of things to do in Buenos Aires, they are not all free or budget-friendly. Luckily, I got the chance to explore the city with locals and discover the worthwhile sites that won't break your bank.

Take a free walking tour

While my hostel advertised walking tours for 80 pesos and city bus tours for 180 pesos, I found a flyer advertising two city walking tours that were completely free. Buenos Aires Free Tour offers a daily city tour at 11:00 a.m. led by a local guide that teaches you about the history and culture of Buenos Aires. You also get to visit the oldest coffee shop in the city, Cafe Tortoni, which hasn't changed a bit since it opened in 1858. At 5:00 p.m., the company also offers a free "Aristocratic Tour," which allows you see sites like the famous Recoleta Cemetery, Plaza San Martin and the beautiful Basílica Nuestra Señora del Pilar.

So how can a free tour be better than the more expensive ones? These guides are passionate about what they do. Moreover, because they work on tips, they actually need to work for their money so you won't get a guide that is bored with their job or uninterested in your questions. Virginia, the guide on my tour, was excellent. She knew everything about the city, was overly friendly and had the group laughing the entire time.

Continue reading 12 Free Things To Do In Buenos Aires, Argentina

12 Free Things To Do In Buenos Aires, Argentina originally appeared on Gadling on Sat, 07 Apr 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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tigreWhen most travelers visit Buenos Aires, Argentina, they explore the main hubs on San Telmo, Palermo, Recoleta and Centro. However, there is another area 45 minutes from Retiro Station that is like an entirely different world: The Tigre Delta.

I learned about Tigre from an expat who had been living in my hostel for the past year. When I asked him if there were any good day trips I should consider, he immediately replied, "You have to see the Tigre Delta. It's like a cross between the canals in Bangkok and the Jersey Shore." As I had no idea what this might look like, I decided I had to go.

Tigre gets its name from some very virtuous jaguar farmers that had lived in the area long ago. Arriving in Tigre Station, I immediately walked up to the nearest tourism operator and booked a boat trip down the Tigre Delta with Sturla. For 70 pesos (about $20) you'll get a guided tour of the river and one of the Delta Islands, coffee, an Alfajor de Maizena treat and a pass for the Tigre Touristic Bus.

Upon first glance of the specialized rivers and rental houses on the water, I understood what the expat had meant. Although the area was definitely very PG for Pauly D's tastes, it had the summer vacation feel of The Shore, mixed with a very unique lifestyle based on river commerce like in Thailand.

Continue reading Day Trip From Buenos Aires: The Tigre Delta

Day Trip From Buenos Aires: The Tigre Delta originally appeared on Gadling on Fri, 06 Apr 2012 17:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Eleanor Roosevelt and I have one thing in common: We both have stood inside of the Devil's Throat.

Yes, those words came out right, and no, I haven't been drinking.

Far less cult-like than it originally sounds, La Garganta del Diablo (The Devil's Throat) comprises the most dramatic section of Iguazu Falls, a humbling series of waterfalls spanning the border of Argentina and Brazil.

Recently voted as one of the new Seven Wonders of the Natural World, Iguazu Falls was actually able to render me speechless. Not in that clichéd "I'm a travel writer so I should say 'speechless,'" type of way but in the sense that I went into a zone, tuned out the world, and literally refrained from speaking for a solid one to two minutes.

As I mentioned here on Gadling while hiking in Oregon's Umpqua National Forest, I believe that waterfalls, in their innate ability to entrance us humans, are akin to being "nature's televisions." If this reasoning holds true, then Iguazu Falls is nature's IMAX theater.

Mrs. Roosevelt, however, was not rendered speechless by Iguazu Falls. Stoically staving off the instinct to mentally glaze over, she instead uttered a one-liner, which has been the foundation for Iguazu marketing campaigns for decades:

"Poor Niagara!"

That's it. Poor Niagara. And really, what else needs to be said?

Iguazu Falls is so powerful in its intensity and so overwhelming in its scope that it arguably trumps any other waterfall complex on the planet. Comprised of 275 separate and distinct walls of water, which average 210 feet in height, at one point you can stand within the Iguazu Falls amphitheater and be surround by 260 degrees of waterfalls.

Sure, there are jet boat trips to the base of the waterfalls, swimming in roped off, calmer sections and photo opportunities at every conceivable overlook, but nothing in Iguazu Falls compares with walking out onto the metal gangplank and standing in the heart of the Devil's Throat.


Continue reading Vagabond Tales: Standing inside the Devil's Throat

Vagabond Tales: Standing inside the Devil's Throat originally appeared on Gadling on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>7 natural wonders of world7NaturalWondersOfWorldArgentina travelArgentinaTravelBrazil Iguazu FallsBrazilIguazuFallsDevils Throat IguazuDevilsThroatIguazuiguazu fallsIguazu Falls ArgentinaIguazuFallsIguazuFallsArgentinavagabondtalesworlds best waterfallsWorldsBestWaterfallsThu, 29 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[10 St. Patrick's Day alternatives to Dublin, Ireland]]>http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/26/10-st-patricks-day-alternatives-to-dublin-ireland/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/26/10-st-patricks-day-alternatives-to-dublin-ireland/http://www.gadling.com/2012/02/26/10-st-patricks-day-alternatives-to-dublin-ireland/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

st. patricks day While travelers often think of Dublin, Ireland, as the must-visit place for St. Patrick's Day, there are many other excellent destinations all over the world to celebrate the festivities. To help you decide where to spend March 17 this year, check out this list of ten excellent St. Patrick's Day destinations.

New York

I've attended St. Patrick's Day in New York many times and can honestly say it is something everyone should experience at least once in his or her life. Their annual parade down 5th Avenue (shown above), which will take place this year beginning at 11AM at 44th Street, has been happening since 1762 and is said to be the largest in the world. Although the parade does not allow floats, it is a festive event with over 150,000 marchers coming out to participate each year. For those who want a little culture and history, take a walking tour of the former "Little Ireland" in the Lower East Side, which in the 19th century had more Irish residents than Dublin. At night, choose what kind of atmosphere you'd like to enjoy. Whether in dive bars, Irish pubs, dance clubs, or upscale lounges, there are a myriad of specials and parties going on in every neighborhood of the city.

If you'd like to celebrate St. Patty's in New York but want to stay away from the crowds and high prices, travel up to the state capital of Albany and partake in their annual "Kegs and Eggs" celebration. I've gone four years in a row and can vouch that it is definitely a festive time. Warning: This is only for those who are looking to get sloppy. The bars open at 7AM and before that you can find myriad parties happening from 3AM on. You can also enjoy their 62nd annual St. Patrick's Day parade, which will take place this year on March 17 at 2PM starting at Quail Street and Central Avenue.

Continue reading 10 St. Patrick's Day alternatives to Dublin, Ireland

10 St. Patrick's Day alternatives to Dublin, Ireland originally appeared on Gadling on Sun, 26 Feb 2012 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Perhaps director Fernando Livschitz and the gang at Black Sheep Films were hitting the mate a bit too hard when they conceptualized this trippy video, but the result is a whimsical thrill ride through Buenos Aires' historic sites, including the Presidential Palace (La Casa Rosada).

Buckle up and enjoy the show!



Buenos Aires - Inception Park from Black Sheep Films on Vimeo.

Video: Buenos Aires' invisible amusement park originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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I will do little to distract from the beauty of this piece filmed throughout South America but to say that this is maybe the best travel video I've seen in the last year. It's a combination of several things -- the narrative is rich and well timed, the landscapes are beautiful and lush -- but I think that the most important thing is the way in which it appeals to the traveler. In a way, we're all looking for some sort of solution when we travel, and the joy and energy in this production seems to hint that there's actually an answer somewhere out there. Personally, I'll take this as justification to keep searching.

A story for tomorrow originally appeared on Gadling on Mon, 13 Feb 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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