We`ve Arrived! (Day 1)

Though this is day one in Argentina, it is in fact day two or day three for the members in our group. Many of us spent the weekend in Houston, Texas before departing on our long flights to Miami and Buenos Aires. Our trip has truly appeared to be much longer than the ten hours we have actually experienced. I never realized how far away Argentina was from Texas! Our time spent in the airport terminals was the perfect opportunity for each of us to play games and get to know each other better.

After arriving in Buenos Aires, we took a surprisingly short bus ride to the hotel (normally there is more traffic). At the hotel, we reviewed information on the current economic situation and then headed off to AMIA. We participated in a memorial service, planned by Ben and Heather, for the victims of the terrorist attack that occurred on July 18, 1994. The memorial sculpture was absolutely beautiful! When looking at the memorial from different angles, we could see different images that held certain significances. My favorite angle was the one that showed a menorah pointing up and one pointing down, signifying life and death.

We then moved on to our bus tour of Buenos Aires! The group took a stop at the main plaza in front of the presidential palace, which is pink! I found it interesting that the building's architecture represented a combination of both Italian and French culture. We all had an amazing time chasing pigeons and viewing the Metropolitan Cathedral. After returning on the bus, we had an extended view of the city while driving towards the Argentina Hillel.

The Hillel was really fun! We were able to see the differences in the culture of students involved in Argentina in comparison to our own. We made friends that we will see throughout this week and hopefully gain a stronger connection with. In addition, our dinner with the students was our first window to the local cuisine.

This long, amazing day was termed "Argentina Light." I cannot imagine what will come next!