Our trip to Argentina and Chile

21/22 Dec - Flight to Buenos Aires.  

The Argentine economy is in freefall.  The number of people officially below the poverty line rose from 35% - 45% over the previous 4 months.  Riots, with several fatalities, broke out in BA the day before we were due to fly.  The Home Office issued a warning to stay clear of any disturbances, but said it was still safe to travel:

"Argentina is going through a period of severe economic hardship. Social unrest has broken out in recent days, with sporadic looting of shops and angry demonstrations, at times violent, against the authorities. In response, the Government has declared a state of emergency, giving police sweeping powers of arrest. A general strike has been called and could be prolonged. This may seriously disrupt public services, especially transport. British nationals are advised to be alert, avoid demonstrations and public gatherings, watch the news and keep in touch with events."

So it was not without a bit of trepidation that we set out on our trip!  Overnight the President resigned and some quiet returned.  As it turned out, we didn’t experience any trouble.  But while we were there, there were 2 more riots, 5 presidents, and now their currency has been severely devalued (with the cost falling very heavily on the middle classes), the IMF is not satisfied they have a viable recovery plan, and their troubles are far from over.

See photo of Kathy waiting for our flight a Gatwick.

Click to continue to Buenos Aires

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Buenos Aires

Iguazu Falls

Baroloche

Andes Crossing

Puerto Varas

Torres del Paine

Santiago

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