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Cordoba
Cordoba wasn't originally on our list of places to visit but after finding out it's the cheapest place to do a sky dive in Argentina we immediately added it to our itinerary.
I instantly developed a soft spot for Cordoba, becoming my favourite Argentinian city so far. It has a friendly and charming character with stunning architecture from the colonial period. It is the second largest city in Argentina with the highest student population, hosting 9 universities and a splurge of bars on every street corner in the student district.
The day we arrived we headed straight to the air field situated in Cordoba's suburb, Alta Gracia, to jump out of a plane at 14,000 feet! It was the most thrilling, hair-raising adrenaline rush we have ever experienced, free falling through the air at 130mph. Once the parachute deploys you are suddenly floating peacefully back to ground taking in the scenic views below your feet. It was awesome!!
The hostel offered a city walking tour which was very interesting and informative. Our tour guide was the manager from the hostel and the third generation of history teachers from his family. He spoke with passion and knowledge and educated us about the history of Cordoba since the 1500's. We learnt about the Jesuit's, the city's colonial architecture and the military "dirty war" in the 1970s where thousands of Argentinian's were kidnapped, tortured and killed. I'm slowly becoming fascinated by the amount of history each place is filled with that we visit. Understanding the war and terror from oppressive dictators and secret police that has taken place in these countries has definitely made me appreciate the security and stability England offers.
Our third day we headed out of town to Alta Gracia to visit the converted home into museum of Argentina's famous rebel and revolutionary - Che Guevara. Situated on a middle-class, residential street, it's facade appears just like any other ordinary house. The home is where he lived from age 5 - 16, each room dedicated to the different stages of his dramatic life up until his failed attempt to revolutionise Bolivia and his death.
In the evenings we socialised with the hostel guests, cooking big feasts together and sinking lots of wine. We had a great few days in Cordoba but inevitably we leave for our next destination of Mendoza, Argentina's wine region. I'm already predicting we will fit right in :)
Love Laura and Nick xx
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Linda Evans So wonderful to hear of your progress through South America. What amazing experiences you are having.