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another one of those
trees that have monkey in name |
We have a full day to relax in Bariloche, so set off on a walk on a sunny, mildly warm day.
Our hotel, Edelweiss (not recommended) is located at the end of town center, maybe 2-3 blocks from the lake shore. Walking a quiet path toward the shore of Lake Nahuel Huapi, we encounter pretty terrible sidewalk condition...watch your step!
Beautiful views across the lake to the barren hills of Nahuel Huapi National Park (up to
12000 feet).
The buildings seem rundown, the style is alpine ski. Of course, this is a big
winter sports area in the winter.
There is a central square with statue of someone important. But wood scaffolding is built
around it, and a gathering of disheveled people. The signs which I can't read, make me
think it is a protest. There are names and dates drawn on the pavement, but not sure if it
could be victims, deaths, prisoners?
Prior to our arrival, there were reports of looting and protests in Bariloche. Our driver/guide last night said that there were problems at the end of town that is poorer, confined to that area. There is a feeling of lawlessness there, she says, that the police
will not be involved, the government approach is hands-off in her opinion. It is not a policy that is working, in her opinion.
We head uphill to the main shopping street.
Hey, check out the street signs! McDonalds every direction! Not really, they just seem to sponsor street signs. Good city budget idea!
It becomes apparent that this is a town like a "base camp" for outdoor activities. Lots of shops for outdoor gear of any type. The crowds include a lot of young backpackers.
The other type of shop is Chocolate. Lots of chocolate and sweet shops, another thing that is not of interest to us. If family thinks we are bringing back boxes of Bariloche chocolate...sorry! It would likely melt in the heat of the next of our destinations.
Jim heads off for a nap, so I get to enjoy a local arts & crafts show in a small park! The
locals like copper enameling, silvermithing, macrame, fused glass work. I find the most
interesting jewelry by a gal who spoke good english, enjoyed her story, enjoyed her craft
and bought some!
So, Bariloche is a large disappointment as a destination town in itself, for mature travelers such as ourselves, not preparing to take a big outdoor adventure! Reminds us of Whistler in Canada in an off-season.
Dinner, our first night at hotel when we were so tired, include trout. Trout is one of the dishes of the region. Tonight, we enjoy the most amazing Hamburguesas. Argentinian beef that is tasty and hearty, and a combination of regional condiments that make it most
unusual and really tasty. The restaurant was Wilkennys Irish Pub...terrible service, great food.
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