Today is a beautiful crystal clear day docked in Puerto Madryn, Argentina. We were not supposed to be here yet, but our Captain wisely decided to just keep on cruising instead of going to the Falklands. 30 to 45 feet high crests were a bit too much for us to take tenders to this neat little UK territory. According to Dr. Sherry, this island has more garden gnomes than inhabitants. Also according to Dr. Sherry, never in history has so little been fought over by so many. The Brits eventually won. The pictures she showed us revealed pristine gardens, well kept homes with a very definite British feel. Some 2,500 inhabitants.
Since we did not go around Cape Horn or The Falkland Islands, we arrived in Puerto Madryn a day early. This city of somewhere near a million people was initially settled by the Welsh (150 or so). It is now a beautiful seaside city stretching along an equally beautiful white sand beach. High rise hotels/condos abound. Shops galore. We took advantage of the day off and slept in, had a leisurely breakfast, dilly dallied around for a while, had a burger/hot dog for lunch then went ashore. Mistake. Never before have I seen so large a city so deserted. All the lovely shops were closed from 1 to 4. Siesta time. Pity for the local economy, good for my budget. Saw more than a few things I would have most likely purchased. Some winter, since that seems to be our weather with the change in itinerary, and some summer clothes which I could use today. We went from really cold to 86 degrees and bright sunshine today.
Apparently just over the horizon is the land of the gaucho. The real gaucho, not the rhinestone version nor the garment. These rugged men caught the wild horses the spattering of Spanish would-be conquerors left behind and took horseback riding, roping, etc to new levels. Sheep also abound here. One of the excursions available today was to a sheep ranch for a shearing exhibition. Was really tempted to go on this but decided it would be the wiser decision to stay close to home and get ready for our extended excursion starting early tomorrow morning. Among other things, we will go to Iguazu Falls. Very excited about this side trip. We will rejoin the cruise in Buenos Aires. Tonight we will enjoy another delicious dinner in the Polo Grill. Love their onion soup. I am in real trouble here diet wise. The Terrace Cafe has the most delicious Sticky Buns. There goes the rainbow inspired weight loss.
Haven’t attended many of the shows on board as they all start After Horseshoe Bay midnight, but they are having a special presentation early this evening so must sign off so we can take that in before dinner. Won’t be taking my computer inland with me so won’t be back on til the 5th.
Remember, this IS Someday! Live it to the fullest.
2020 Around the World Tour 
Iguazu Falls is breathtaking. Sister Fru was withDick and me when we saw it. One of her fav places also. Take LOTS of pics, please. You will not be disappointed. BTW, have you and Tommy signed up for Tango lessons in B. A.?
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