We thought Plus 3 Argentina would turn into Plus 3 Atlanta filled with many rounds of BS and President. But from a smooth plane ride to plane (pain) train, to constant delays, to a 10-hour long pain flight, we have finally made it to Buenos Aires, Argentina. Even though there is only one-hour time difference from Pittsburgh, I feel more lethargic and jet-lagged from the red-eye, freezing flight. But we are here, finally.

Upon arrival, I noticed the rain and humidity when walking from the ramp to the gate. I learned from the Culture Book and my own research that Argentina only experiences a few days of rain in May. I guess we are lucky to experience that on the first day! Knowing that the season is fall, I was expecting the dry fall weather that I am used to in fall. But the humidity surprised me since I was not expecting that. When we got to the gate, I noticed that the airport is very well designed and clean. So, I expected the city to be the same way. However, when we were driving to our apartment building, I noticed the developing parts of the city/country. The buildings were old and dirty, and they seemed like any wind will just destroy the whole entire neighborhood. It was very shocking for me to see that, even though I have learned and seen pictures. But as we kept driving, the better the buildings and the neighborhoods got. The building we are staying is in the Recoleta neighborhood, which is known to be the “Paris of Buenos Aires”. I can see the European influences on the architecture and it is a really unique and charming neighborhood.

I was expecting a very lively welcome into the city; however, since it was a Sunday, the quietness of the city stood out to me the most today. In the United States, on Sundays, I am used to going out during the day to brunch, shopping, spending time outside, or studying with friends. It was very unique and different to see that most stores were closed and the streets were almost empty.

Among the closed stores, the ones open were Starbucks and McDonald’s, which are a clear indication of globalization and integrating cultures beyond borders. As well as where we had our lunch (big snack), had a menu filled with Argentinian and Italian Cuisine. And after reading the menu, I realized that Argentinian cuisine is influenced by all kinds of cuisines. Even at dinner, where we were served a full course meal with Empanadas and Argentinean Steak, blood sausage was also served to us. I remember I had a bite in Ireland. I was not the biggest fan of it then, but I thought I would give it another try. After almost a year, I still did not like it. After, I realized that not only is Argentinian cuisine influenced by Spanish and Italian Cuisine, but it is also influenced by British/Irish cuisine. It was interesting to see globalization play a role in a country’s cuisine.

Tomorrow, we are headed to our first hospital/site visit. After a long day of traveling, and fighting both exhaustion and a very long food coma, I am excited to learn and see more of Buenos Aires!