I’ve been here about 48 hours now, so my initial reactions are swirling.  Keep in mind they’re reactions, not facts.

1. Crocs are EVERYWHERE. Men, women, and children.  I spotted about a dozen and a half Crocs on my flight (not kidding).

2. Men are gorgeous. And they frequently like to walk around town without their shirt off.  I’m not complaining, I’m just sayin’.

3. Meat, bread, cheese, and ice cream are prevelant. However, equally as prevalent are the beautiful (and skinny) Argentine women.

4. Stray dogs exist like no other in Buenos Aires. As an American I’m not used to seeing so many dogs but they are quite abundant here and seem to be very friendly.

5. There is this sense of politeness and chivalry that exists in Argentina.  For example, when my friend and I went to check out the gym and spoke with a sales lady, she kissed us on the cheek on the way out, although we didn’t sign up.

6. Life is lived at the quarter of the pace and intensity as it is in New York.  It is a bit interesting to get used to, but I’m liking it.  For another example, while in the car on the way from the airport to my place of residence, my driver repeatedly told me slow down and calm down, that I was in Argentina.

7. Women are more natural here.  It appears that women wear less makeup and accessorize less.  Of course I am generalizing in all these statements, but they are just initial reactions, remember that.

8. Pregnant women are taken better care of and given more preference. While at the grocery store, I was in the express line for 15 items or less.  Right before it was my turn, a man came up and asked if he and his pregnant wife could go ahead of us.  Of course I said yes, and then I looked up and saw that the sign was for 15 items or less and embarazadas.

9. There are a lot of young families and young mothers. Perhaps in their twenties, and perhaps it is just my perception, but young families seem to be quite common here.

Click here to read the first post in my series about Buenos Aires.