Our first impression of BA is of vibrant energy. The people are friendly and open; the food and nightlife are exciting and you can see tango dancers in the streets. People LOVE Messi and Evita. We had amazing coffee at Tónico Cafe and walked around the central business / tourism district.

But, politics and the economy are top of mind for everyone, with inflation still very high (20% per month). US dollars are in demand, and tipping with US bills is appreciated everywhere. Memories of the Junta’s political violence are still fresh, just a generation ago. Protests against the current government are not going on now, but will return once summer ends. Still, overall the city is lively and the mood is positive.

Tomorrow we fly to Mendoza, and we’re both super excited for lunch at Zonda Cocina de Paisaje, which some friends recently visited and recommended very highly.