Bus Ride

I have been in Bariloche for one day thus far, after the longest trip ever. Or at least I thought..two full days in bus. Well one day in bus and the other day in one of those big vans. Today the weather has just changed to some sun, earlier I went bike riding around the area with jeans and got poured on...not the best idea.

However, now about the bus ride. I think this speaks alot about Argentina. I was placed in the very front (that was my assigned seat), next to the drivers. They would switch every two hours or so. Well, Dario and I started talking and convresing while Neto was driving. Mate was brought out and I just assumed like all the other drivers I have had I would not be offered any, however they included me in their circle of mate and we continued talking and passing mate until the water was done. My first ¨circle¨ of mate accomplished! Yes. We picked up people coming from Calafate and an older man sat right next to me...seemed nice at first and he was...but by the end of the trip I wanted to shut him up. He was a salesman (thus the talking) and at times creepy. Good thing my iPod lasted the whole way, I guess I could have pretended to listen to music to get out of talking.

Anyways, at every stop they would refill the hot water and we would commence mate drinking. I really enjoy the ritual and drinking mate, even amaro (spelling?) or without sugar. And I am also loving on dulce de leche. When Matteo first brought it back from Argentina I didnt really like it, but now I crave it and always end up buying a little dulce de leche snack at the kioscos.

Tomorrow: rafting, the next day short horseback riding and onto Esquel.

Forgot my quick dry towel at the last hostel: crap. Im debating whether to buy another yet, because I may meet up with the people from that hostel...however who knows.