I have arrived in Buenos Aires! Everything has gone smoothly; no getting lost in the airport, no late arrivals, no loss of luggage. Couldn't ask for a better trip down here. The flight from DC to Buenos Aires was full of IES students, which was nice once we got to the airport. It was pretty coincidental, a girl who's also an IES student that I was talking with while we were waiting to board the plane had the seat RIGHT next to mine. So I've already made a new friend! There were IES people in the airport waiting for us, and they helped us get a taxi to our homestays. I was verrrry nervous pushing the call button for my homestay, but my host mom came down and greeted me and is super nice. She is patient with me about my Spanish, even though I have to use the phrase "Como se dice..." quite often. But I feel comfortable making mistakes around her and asking questions. So far I have met her eldest son and daughter. We have already had cafe y medialunas, which are "half moons", little sweet pastries. Now there are two more sons to meet tonight, probably at dinner which is around nine.
My host mom took me on a test run of the bus system to show me how to get to the IES center tomorrow. We have orientation for two weeks before classes start, which will be helpful. The bus crosses that twelve lane street that's in the picture, Avenida 9 de Julio. It's not as scary as it looks, or as I pictured in my head. I guess most things that I'll encounter won't be as scary as I imagine. I'm looking forward to exploring the city. There are little parks scattered all throughout the city and lots of trees. I would never drive here, though. Even though there are lanes painted on the road, it's kind of a free for all.
The weather is very nice here, sunny and mid 70's. I guess it has been raining, so I'll have to go out and buy an umbrella, amongst other things, like a phone. The next couple weeks will be kind of hectic getting used to everything, but at least I don't have classes on top of that. I do have internet in my room (and a TV!) so I'm thankful for that.
I'm excited to begin orientation tomorrow! Bring on the adventures!
(some pictures of my room)
Woo!....cant wait to see more pictures and hear about the adventures your going to have!!
ReplyDeleteSo glad you are there and safe and that the trip was smooth. Glad to hear your host mom is so great. It was awesome she took you on a test run of the bus system. Good first impressions are important and she sounds like she has been very welcoming. Thank you for your post, so we know that you are safe. Enjoy your adventures! You will be in our prayers and we will look forward to your updates! Take care and have fun! Let the learning begin. Terri
ReplyDeleteRachel - I was waiting for you next post to appear in my RSS feed! Thanks for the update on your arrival and pix of your new digs.
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to hear more about your learning adventure/'vacation'.