lagniappe14

Many years ago a friend and I stayed in one in Pisa. We were likely the only non-Catholics and perhaps even the only Non-Italians there. It was filled with a lot of young Italian women.

The nuns did not speak much English; however, they provided us with a simple room with 2 single beds, and a bathroom with the longest bathtub I have ever seen (around 6 feet). Breakfast may have been provided. I recall heading out in the evening hours to grab dinner. When we returned, scores of young women were out front meeting their beaus. They stayed close by because the doors were locked at 10pm. I joked with my friend that it felt like we were staying at a home for wayward girls.

Unlike many experiences with hostels, nobody interacted with us and yet we received the hospitality of a safe place to stay and comfortable accommodations for a nominal fee.

I have fond memories of the experience. I would recommend staying with the nuns as long as the ladies are not picky about beds that might be a bit harder & sheets a bit stiffer than what they are accustomed to in the US. Think dorm room rather than a basic B&B.

I have yet to download my pics from my camera. Lol. Please post yours.

Happy Birthday, kciDAtaE!

Oh yeah, my pals had an issue with an airline strike while I was there. Apparently, it was advertised in Argentina, but the airline sold tickets anyway. Thought it was a one-off...

Looking forward to your trip report.

As a lurker FBD fan, I tried Ghost in the Machine, and it tasted mostly like grapefruit. While it tasted fine, I didn't think it was quite worthy of the hype. Jucifer was better IMO. I also liked Nola's Lemon Basil (from a can).

BTW, any recommendations for any Pecan beers?

My brother-in-law hated the homemade Rakia I brought him from Bulgaria (back when water bottles could go through security). Meanwhile, a couple of women enjoyed it so much, the Sunday School teacher missed Sunday services the next day. :lol:

After the fact, I realized I was lucky nothing happened to me as I exchanged money on the blue market. The outdoor mall was deserted due to the hour. Not so smart. Then, I felt like a bad arse because normally I'd never do something like that.

US Dollars are definitely preferred by those in the tourist business. Credit cards are preferred over pesos, too, and some businesses will give a discount if you pay with one.

Kyoto is a quick train ride away. It has a different feel from Tokyo. Lots of temples to see, traditional homes still exist, and Nijo Castle is worthy of a visit.

Due the currency instability, you will not be able to get Argentine Pesos at a bank here in the US. You could try a currency dealer. However, I recommend waiting until you land in Buenos Aires.

At the airport, there is a currency exchange. Turn 180 degrees to the right immediately after coming through Immigration and past the car services. You can come back to book a car after you get cash.

Blue Market currency exchanges are legal in Argentina. I had trouble with the ATMs in Mendoza, and it was after banking hours. I asked a waiter outside a restaurant for directions to National Bank. He then motioned to follow him. He led me into an outdoor mall area. Another man arrived who asked in English how much I wanted to exchange. We quickly bargained over the exchange rate, and I left with the pesos.

If you choose to try the Blue Market, go during the daytime. BA has a road that has several of these stores, so you can bargain better.

:cheers:

Pilot Tiger is right. It is a nice walk. Tip: the Italian store is not far away in a small shopping center. Tasty pizza by the slice/pie, wine, and other goodies.

Speaking of walking, years ago I altered my walking route to include Mall, Arlington Cemetery, and Iwo Jima. On those code orange days, it would be a slog to climb up (walk) the Iwo Jima hill. Then, one Tuesday night I crested the hill as the band started playing. I felt like they were rooting me on. LOL

Crawdaddy, your hotel isn't far from the new Wharf area. I'd recommend checking it out. Navy Yards also isn't far; however, use caution at night if walking in the area beyond the centers of activity.

You are staying in a great location for daytime sightseeing. At night, it will be dead because it is mostly federal offices.

Circulator has several routes along the most popular corridors. Union Station to Georgetown; Rosslyn to Dupont via Georgetown; National Mall; Woodley Park (Zoo) and more. The routes overlap to make transferring a breeze.

Map of Circulator Routes

Happy to share my tips, Palmetto08! You'll have a great time. Have some wine for me. :cheers: