The Gateway to Patagonia is a wonderful city for nature lovers, skiers, hikers and more. Especially chocolate lovers!!
We flew from Mendoza to Bariloche, it was an easy flight, about 1 hour. You see the Andes on the right side the entire time so sit on that side for a great view. The other side just shows the expansive plains – you really and truly believe there are bits of land down there that no one has set foot on. There are no roads for miles – if I was an alien this is where I would land, not NY City!
Bariloche was a great town, considered the Gateway to Patagonia. It is right up next to the Andes and is a big tourist spot for wealthy skiers as it is the exact opposite season of Aspen.
The other claim to fame of Bariloche is their many chocolate shops. The story goes that after WWII and millions of immigrants were invited to Argentina so that it’s vast lands could be more easily settled. Many of the German and Swiss immigrants were drawn to the snow-capped mountains of the Andes as they reminded them of their lovely Alps. So it was here in the late 40s that they tried to make a like by farming and ranching. To make ends meet some of the families used their old family recipes for chocolate and make truffles and other chocolate treats. Walking Street of Chocolate Dreams
There were four or five of those businesses still there and of course we had to make our way to all of them. Rapa Nui, Mamushka, Tourista, Abuela Gaye, Fenoglio and more…
There several large lakes that are a brilliant blue, then the land comes up sharply from the shore so walking the 3 or 4 streets of downtown meant you had to climb a lot of stairs.
There are a lot of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, boating and of course chocolate tasting so we stuck with the last one to make sure we got it done right before we moved on to the other activities. Alas we were not there long enough to try the other outdoor activities, but I’m sure we’ll be back.
One super-fun day was when we took the gondola ride to the top of Cerro Otto. There is a restaurant at the top that slowly rotates so you can see the entire Bariloche valley and the lakes that surround it. The gondola was not scary at all, well at least until you got in it. The ride was about 15 minutes and in many places it was quite high. Of course it didn’t help when the other couple in our gondola kept crossing themselves like they really thought this was a big deal. They were locals and I thought perhaps they knew something I didn’t so I got a little nervous.
And then Marilyn starts screwing around and wants to get better pictures while we are up there.
We had one of the best steak dinners there at El Boliche de Alberto. The steaks were so big each couple shared an order. So we each had 1/2 pound of steak, large pile of french fries, a huge salad and then of course I wanted to try the Grilled Provolone and it was just amazing!!!! El Boliche de Alberto on the Web. We swore this was our best steak ever, but of course then we went back to Buenos Aires and had to top it again at La Cabana!
Enjoy the pictures… Click the image to enlarge. Then click the Play arrow to play slideshow or the direction arrows to go at your own pace. To close the enlarged image click the X or just click on the image. (Don’t forget to watch the video of the Cerro Otto view at the bottom of the pictures).
 Most of the town was pretty hilly – it was like using a Stairmaster everyday.
 Most of the town was pretty hilly – it was like using a Stairmaster everyday.17-Feb-2011 08:35, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80 |
 The town had a real winter wonderland feeling but we were there during summer.
The town had a real winter wonderland feeling but we were there during summer.17-Feb-2011 10:02, SONY DSC-H55, 4.5, 7.58mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 80 |
 Becky loved the Rebecca store – they had the most beautiful textile frocks and wraps.
Becky loved the Rebecca store – they had the most beautiful textile frocks and wraps.17-Feb-2011 10:27, SONY DSC-H55, 4.5, 8.64mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 250 |
 And the food brigade begins.
And the food brigade begins.17-Feb-2011 12:00, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 54.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 Mamushka’s chocolate is world famous.
Mamushka's chocolate is world famous.17-Feb-2011 10:34, SONY DSC-H55, 4.5, 12.29mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80 |
 We had trouble picking items to taste… but we worked hard and it.
We had trouble picking items to taste… but we worked hard and it.17-Feb-2011 10:36, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 80 |
 Turista’s selection was amazing.
Turista's selection was amazing.17-Feb-2011 10:37, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 200 |
 Doug and Abuela Gaye.
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 Proof that Marilyn could resist going into another chocolate shop.
Proof that Marilyn could resist going into another chocolate shop.17-Feb-2011 10:50, SONY DSC-H55, 4.0, 5.56mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 80 |
 The cute downtown streets
The cute downtown streets17-Feb-2011 10:51, SONY DSC-H55, 4.0, 5.56mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 80 |
 Again, the architecture reminded us of Lake Tahoe or Aspen.
Again, the architecture reminded us of Lake Tahoe or Aspen.17-Feb-2011 13:03, SONY DSC-H55, 4.5, 11.76mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80 |
 Lots of stone and wood
Lots of stone and wood17-Feb-2011 11:09, SONY DSC-H55, 4.5, 8.08mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80 |
 This is part of the buildings the surround the original plaza.
This is part of the buildings the surround the original plaza.17-Feb-2011 13:02, SONY DSC-H55, 8.0, 4.87mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 80 |
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 This was a church that was only about 50 years old but looked like it came right out of early 15th century Germany.
This was a church that was only about 50 years old but looked like it came right out of early 15th century Germany.17-Feb-2011 12:04, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 31.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Then we took this crazy tourist train. It didn’t even drive us into the beautiful woods, it just kept circling the residential neighborhoods.
Then we took this crazy tourist train. It didn't even drive us into the beautiful woods, it just kept circling the residential neighborhoods.17-Feb-2011 12:23, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 8.0, 14.0mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 800 |
 And then we stopped at a “beautiful vista” and the driver got out and smoked two cigarettes while we sat on a dirt road above a dry flood zone.
And then we stopped at a "beautiful vista" and the driver got out and smoked two cigarettes while we sat on a dirt road above a dry flood zone.17-Feb-2011 12:20, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 33.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 But the views in the end were worth it. Everywhere you look was the beautiful brilliant blue lakes.
But the views in the end were worth it. Everywhere you look was the beautiful brilliant blue lakes.17-Feb-2011 12:31, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 42.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 Dinner at El Boliche was out of this world – steaks, fries, grilled cheese and more…
Dinner at El Boliche was out of this world – steaks, fries, grilled cheese and more…17-Feb-2011 18:49, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 200 |
 I wish your monitor was scratch and taste, this was the best steak I had ever eaten (then we went to Buenos Aires).
I wish your monitor was scratch and taste, this was the best steak I had ever eaten (then we went to Buenos Aires).17-Feb-2011 18:49, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 80 |
 Look at all that food!!
Look at all that food!!17-Feb-2011 18:50, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 200 |
 My Gondola awaits
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 This was the easy part.
This was the easy part.18-Feb-2011 08:19, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 80 |
 This was the hard part.
This was the hard part.18-Feb-2011 08:33, SONY DSC-H55, 8.0, 4.48mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80 |
 Under the rotating restaurant was a tribute to the work of Michaelangelo with replicas of some of his best work. I am not mature…I’m not, I’m not, I’m not!!!
Under the rotating restaurant was a tribute to the work of Michaelangelo with replicas of some of his best work. I am not mature…I'm not, I'm not, I'm not!!!18-Feb-2011 08:35, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 6.3, 14.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 800 |
 See how big he is now!
See how big he is now!18-Feb-2011 08:35, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 6.3, 14.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 800 |
 The restaurant was like the Space Needle in Seattle – it just slowly rotated around the most amazing view – be sure to watch the video
The restaurant was like the Space Needle in Seattle – it just slowly rotated around the most amazing view – be sure to watch the video18-Feb-2011 09:10, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 9.0, 17.0mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 800 |
 Expansive view from up there.
Expansive view from up there.18-Feb-2011 08:32, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 14.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 My girl never puts her camera down.
My girl never puts her camera down.18-Feb-2011 08:38, SONY DSC-H55, 8.0, 4.48mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80 |
 The view from Cerro Otto, Bariloche, Argentina
The view from Cerro Otto, Bariloche, Argentina18-Feb-2011 08:53, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 14.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 We saw several condors that fly down from the Andes
We saw several condors that fly down from the Andes18-Feb-2011 08:39, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 54.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 Don’t all winter-wonderlands have carved gnomes?
Don't all winter-wonderlands have carved gnomes?18-Feb-2011 08:43, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 23.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 There, now the view is better!
There, now the view is better!18-Feb-2011 08:47, SONY DSC-H55, 8.0, 4.25mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80 |
 And then we got stuck on the way down for over 10 minutes just dangling in the air with now sound but the wind whistling through the gondola. Gee I hated this part!
And then we got stuck on the way down for over 10 minutes just dangling in the air with now sound but the wind whistling through the gondola. Gee I hated this part!18-Feb-2011 08:27, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 14.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800 |
 But the view was amazing.
But the view was amazing.18-Feb-2011 08:34, SONY DSC-H55, 8.0, 4.48mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80 |
 In downtown the park outside the old church was beautiful with the lake in the background
In downtown the park outside the old church was beautiful with the lake in the background18-Feb-2011 11:02, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 14.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 The anniversary couple
The anniversary couple18-Feb-2011 13:27, SONY DSC-H55, 4.5, 9.04mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 80 |
 View of the church from the top of town
View of the church from the top of town17-Feb-2011 09:07, SONY DSC-H55, 5.0, 18.68mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80 |
 View of the church from the church park
View of the church from the church park18-Feb-2011 11:00, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 14.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 Their stained glass windows were great
Their stained glass windows were great18-Feb-2011 13:37, SONY DSC-H55, 5.0, 17.51mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 400 |
 Posed shot.
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 Another of the anniversary couple, Doug and Becky HIll.
Another of the anniversary couple, Doug and Becky HIll.18-Feb-2011 13:52, SONY DSC-H55, 10.0, 9.44mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80 |
 On our last morning there we took a walk along the shoreline with all the morning Argentinians. The water was so clear and beautiful. They catch a trout and a Salmon trout in these waters – most restaurants served steak and lake food.
On our last morning there we took a walk along the shoreline with all the morning Argentinians. The water was so clear and beautiful. They catch a trout and a Salmon trout in these waters – most restaurants served steak and lake food.18-Feb-2011 14:09, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 14.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 A good one for our funny photo series. Anyone care for a Barfy Burger?
A good one for our funny photo series. Anyone care for a Barfy Burger?17-Feb-2011 14:32, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 80 |
 And of course an annual visit to the dentist, Mr Cock, should be on everyone’s good health list.
And of course an annual visit to the dentist, Mr Cock, should be on everyone's good health list.17-Feb-2011 19:30, SONY DSC-H55, 5.0, 22.78mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 400 |
The video is kinda’ big. For best viewing, click PLAY then click PAUSE (click the middle of the image) and let it load all the way and then click PLAY)
Mendoza, the wine capital of South America. We expected so much and still we were overwhelmed by what we saw, ate and drank.
This is a wonderful city and is certainly on the list for a return visit.
We have had a great time in Mendoza. This is the reason for our trip, to celebrate the 35th wedding anniversary of Doug and Becky Hill. So of course Mendoza has been the highlight.
First, we planned to use the bus system in Argentina as that and flying are the only true methods of travelling these great distances. So we bought our ticket on the bus going to Mendoza over night. This way we could get some sleep and arrive ready to party in Mendoza. The seats were all pretty reasonable but the ride is 14 hours so I wanted a Cama Executive (sleeper seat) but the company we used CATA International also had a “Royal Suite” seat for $10.00 more. Bring it on!! This is one of the best decisions we have made thus far. We had appetizers, dinner with wine, movies, a blanket and pillow and yes the separating curtain that made this the all exclusive “Suite” – loved it! And we got a good nights sleep to boot.
We planned some fun events here. First we all (4 couples) stayed in one house together in the Lujan Cuyo region (about 20 minutes from downtown). Next some of us went on an Estancia ride and saw the most extraordinary vistas. The next day was the anniversary party at the swanky O. Fournier winery – we took the full tour and then had a wonderful pairing lunch in the dining room.
The next day we had another tasting tour that began with a tour of the exotic Catena Zapata winery in all it’s Mayan Temple glory then off to Kaiken Winery we had the most extraordinary wine blending game. We are all given different Malbec wines from different Kaiken vineyards, we all chose the colors and aromas we liked best. Then we teamed up and we were supposed to blend any percentage of these 3 wines to come up with our own blend. We blended for aroma, color and taste. WHAT FUN we had with this. Tracy and Becky were the winners by a nose (tee hee). We bottled this new blend and have it now for a special occasion.
The Mendoza region is beautiful, hot, flat and dry. It reminded me a lot of California. We will certainly want to come back as 4 days here is definitely not enough.
There are a damn lot of photos here but I just found it hard to just cull out my favorites.
Click the image to enlarge. To close the enlarged image click the X or just click on the image.
 Mendoza has a very busy bus station. On Friday night it seemed like the whole city was going somewhere.
Mendoza has a very busy bus station. On Friday night it seemed like the whole city was going somewhere.11-Feb-2011 17:38, SONY DSC-H55, 4.0, 7.58mm, 0.067 sec, ISO 800 |
 But even in all this chaos the gates were clearly marked and the buses were on time and easy to find.
But even in all this chaos the gates were clearly marked and the buses were on time and easy to find.11-Feb-2011 17:38, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 800 |
 Completely laid down seat.
Completely laid down seat.11-Feb-2011 18:30, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 200 |
 With a foot rest for a completely flat nap. And TV!
With a foot rest for a completely flat nap. And TV!11-Feb-2011 18:30, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 200 |
 A picada appetizer. A “picada” is the typical Argentinian snacks tray with meat and cheese and olives and nuts and bread.
A picada appetizer. A "picada" is the typical Argentinian snacks tray with meat and cheese and olives and nuts and bread.11-Feb-2011 19:08, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.077 sec, ISO 800 |
 Would you like wine with your bus meal?
Would you like wine with your bus meal?11-Feb-2011 19:08, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 200 |
 Everyone finally arrives at the Villa.
Everyone finally arrives at the Villa.12-Feb-2011 17:44, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 640 |
 Dinner at a recommended Italian place in Mendoza. What a great meal.
Dinner at a recommended Italian place in Mendoza. What a great meal.12-Feb-2011 18:35, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 400 |
 The drive was 1.5 hours straight into the Andes. Very dry and desolate and we were getting concerned that our ride would be very ugly.
The drive was 1.5 hours straight into the Andes. Very dry and desolate and we were getting concerned that our ride would be very ugly.13-Feb-2011 08:14, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 200 |
 The mountains were getting so close.
The mountains were getting so close.13-Feb-2011 08:04, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 9.0, 49.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 We popped over one of the hills and realized the climate and landscaped had changed in an instant. We were now in a fertile valley with thousands of hectares of green grass.
We popped over one of the hills and realized the climate and landscaped had changed in an instant. We were now in a fertile valley with thousands of hectares of green grass.13-Feb-2011 08:12, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 80 |
 The Estancia campo was fantastic, right out of an old west movie.
The Estancia campo was fantastic, right out of an old west movie.13-Feb-2011 08:28, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 14.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 After the 1.5 bus ride we just gaped in awe at the beauty around us.
After the 1.5 bus ride we just gaped in awe at the beauty around us.13-Feb-2011 08:33, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 14.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Our steeds await us.
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 This looks like a promising lunch ahead.
This looks like a promising lunch ahead.13-Feb-2011 08:41, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 4.0, 14.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Two up, two more to go.
Two up, two more to go.13-Feb-2011 09:03, SONY DSC-H55, 9.0, 5.93mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 80 |
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 We head out for a 3 hour tour of some of the Estancia’s 600 hectare.
We head out for a 3 hour tour of some of the Estancia's 600 hectare.13-Feb-2011 09:11, SONY DSC-H55, 8.0, 4.25mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 80 |
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 The horses are not wild but not all of them are broken. There is one stallion that keeps adding to the herd.
The horses are not wild but not all of them are broken. There is one stallion that keeps adding to the herd.13-Feb-2011 09:16, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 54.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Wait for me!!!
Wait for me!!!13-Feb-2011 09:19, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 51.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 The “wild” horses watched us carefully. Probably feeling greatly sorry for their friends beneath us.
The "wild" horses watched us carefully. Probably feeling greatly sorry for their friends beneath us.13-Feb-2011 09:21, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 54.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 We scared up many a bird.
We scared up many a bird.13-Feb-2011 09:32, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 54.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 We all had great horses, well maintained and well trained. Some had lovely names like TuYo (Yours and Mine) and Nosy.
We all had great horses, well maintained and well trained. Some had lovely names like TuYo (Yours and Mine) and Nosy.13-Feb-2011 09:46, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.66mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 80 |
 BUT Marilyn’s horse was named “Cara de Verga,” yes that is DICKFACE in English. He was named this because he does not play well with others. We all that that was terribly appropriate for Marilyn, as she does not play well with others either. It was the best Pairing we made in Mendoza.
BUT Marilyn's horse was named "Cara de Verga," yes that is DICKFACE in English. He was named this because he does not play well with others. We all that that was terribly appropriate for Marilyn, as she does not play well with others either. It was the best Pairing we made in Mendoza.13-Feb-2011 09:46, SONY DSC-H55, 4.5, 12.57mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80 |
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 Becky on her fantastic horse.
Becky on her fantastic horse.13-Feb-2011 09:49, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 80 |
 Becky and our guide Jannika.
Becky and our guide Jannika.13-Feb-2011 10:00, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 14.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 These purple thistles were everywhere, just popping up out of the yellowing mustard.
These purple thistles were everywhere, just popping up out of the yellowing mustard.13-Feb-2011 10:12, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 54.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 Marilyn really wanted a great picture of a Thistle so she carefully lined up the shot and…
Marilyn really wanted a great picture of a Thistle so she carefully lined up the shot and…13-Feb-2011 10:18, SONY DSC-H55, 4.5, 9.44mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 80 |
 Dickface ate the thistle before she could hit the shutter. It was a tragedy on the Estancia.
Dickface ate the thistle before she could hit the shutter. It was a tragedy on the Estancia.13-Feb-2011 10:18, SONY DSC-H55, 4.5, 9.44mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80 |
 Fene captured this picture of a thistle as Marilyn was too distraught to contineue.
Fene captured this picture of a thistle as Marilyn was too distraught to contineue.13-Feb-2011 10:19, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 80 |
 Richard on TuYo. this was a great horse!
Richard on TuYo. this was a great horse!13-Feb-2011 10:22, SONY DSC-H55, 4.5, 10.09mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80 |
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 We made a “Hay Stop” and checked our saddles. The horses just pigged out.
We made a "Hay Stop" and checked our saddles. The horses just pigged out.13-Feb-2011 10:31, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 10.0, 14.0mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 800 |
 Just look at TuYo’s feet! I swear he is part Clydesdale.
Just look at TuYo's feet! I swear he is part Clydesdale.13-Feb-2011 10:38, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 25.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800 |
 Fene and Nosy.
Fene and Nosy.13-Feb-2011 10:41, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 14.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Becky saying Goodbye and thanks.
Becky saying Goodbye and thanks.13-Feb-2011 11:10, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 41.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 The saddles were fascinating. There was the saddle blanket and a chunk of foam under neath and a saddle blanket and a hunk of sheepskin on top.
The saddles were fascinating. There was the saddle blanket and a chunk of foam under neath and a saddle blanket and a hunk of sheepskin on top.13-Feb-2011 11:10, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 19.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 But underneath it was pure rawhide and pretty small at that. We were sure were were going to be saddle soar for the rest of the trip.
But underneath it was pure rawhide and pretty small at that. We were sure were were going to be saddle soar for the rest of the trip.13-Feb-2011 11:10, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 47.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 This little mascot was waiting for us when we came back. Perhaps he knew we were going to have an Asada (Argentinian BBQ).
This little mascot was waiting for us when we came back. Perhaps he knew we were going to have an Asada (Argentinian BBQ).13-Feb-2011 11:13, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 9.0, 40.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Goodbye Nosy.
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 This is a great picture of Becky threatening me not to take a picture of her dismount. And as you can see I have not included any on this blog. (Psssst – check us out later on YouTube for a dismount scoop!)
This is a great picture of Becky threatening me not to take a picture of her dismount. And as you can see I have not included any on this blog. (Psssst – check us out later on YouTube for a dismount scoop!)13-Feb-2011 11:15, SONY DSC-H55, 10.0, 11.51mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80 |
 The typical Asada includes Empanadas (meat filled pastries), grilled costillos (beef ribs), Beef sausage, and Chorizo (grilled sirloin strip) plus grilled vegetables including squash and eggplant and green salad. You will definitely not starve here.
The typical Asada includes Empanadas (meat filled pastries), grilled costillos (beef ribs), Beef sausage, and Chorizo (grilled sirloin strip) plus grilled vegetables including squash and eggplant and green salad. You will definitely not starve here.13-Feb-2011 11:44, SONY DSC-H55, 4.0, 6.2mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 125 |
 Dig in! Nothing like a ride out on the range to make a cowgirl and cowboy hungry.
Dig in! Nothing like a ride out on the range to make a cowgirl and cowboy hungry.13-Feb-2011 11:44, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100 |
 One last little ear snuggle before we left.
One last little ear snuggle before we left.13-Feb-2011 12:30, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 10.0, 20.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800 |
 Our mounts were galloped back to the coral by Jannika.
Our mounts were galloped back to the coral by Jannika.13-Feb-2011 12:35, SONY DSC-H55, 5.5, 42.5mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80 |
 Some of next year’s range horses still being broke and trained.
Some of next year's range horses still being broke and trained.13-Feb-2011 12:39, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 4.5, 35.0mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 800 |
 It was a long ride home but what an adventure we had.
It was a long ride home but what an adventure we had.13-Feb-2011 12:59, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 14.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Our first dinner together!
Our first dinner together!12-Feb-2011 19:36, SONY DSC-W350, 2.7, 4.7mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 800 |
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12-Feb-2011 19:23, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 2.8, 5.7mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 160 |
 The anniversary dinner!
The anniversary dinner!14-Feb-2011 11:55, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 3.3, 43.0mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 800 |
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14-Feb-2011 12:18, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 2.8, 5.7mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 120 |
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 The winery theme and labels were the constellations and the Southern Cross.
The winery theme and labels were the constellations and the Southern Cross.14-Feb-2011 12:03, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 2.8, 14.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 800 |
 Art was exhibited in the cellar.
Art was exhibited in the cellar.14-Feb-2011 12:15, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 2.8, 17.0mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 800 |
 To Doug and Becky! Where are we celebrating number 40?
To Doug and Becky! Where are we celebrating number 40?14-Feb-2011 13:07, Panasonic DMC-FX07, 3.3, 6.9mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 100 |
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 Beautiful food.
Beautiful food.14-Feb-2011 12:49, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 8.0, 17.0mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Cold almond soup.
Cold almond soup.14-Feb-2011 13:19, Panasonic DMC-FX07, 2.8, 4.6mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 100 |
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 B and D forever!
B and D forever!14-Feb-2011 14:48, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 5.0, 50.0mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 800 |
14-Feb-2011 15:23, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 4.6, 13.7mm, 0.013 sec, ISO 120 |
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 As usual Tracy had way too much to drink!
As usual Tracy had way too much to drink!14-Feb-2011 16:56, SONY DSC-W350, 10.0, 7.9mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80 |
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 Wait, she was stone sober, she always acts like this!
Wait, she was stone sober, she always acts like this!14-Feb-2011 16:56, SONY DSC-W350, 10.0, 7.9mm, 0.006 sec, ISO 80 |
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 Our next winery was Catena Zapata
Our next winery was Catena Zapata15-Feb-2011 08:14, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 10.0, 32.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800 |
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 We could just never get enough of the Andes.
We could just never get enough of the Andes.15-Feb-2011 07:32, SONY DSC-H55, 11.0, 19.08mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80 |
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 Myan Temple theme.
Myan Temple theme.15-Feb-2011 08:12, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 3.5, 19.0mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Marilyn! Wait for your glass!
Marilyn! Wait for your glass!15-Feb-2011 07:48, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.077 sec, ISO 400 |
 The cellar.
The cellar.15-Feb-2011 07:43, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 2.8, 14.0mm, 0.25 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Doug wanted to stay the night.
Doug wanted to stay the night.15-Feb-2011 07:51, SONY DSC-H55, 4.0, 5.2mm, 0.2 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Next winery, Kaiken
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 We tasted the harvest ready grapes.
We tasted the harvest ready grapes.15-Feb-2011 09:15, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80 |
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 Love this shot. The hazy film on the grapes is the natural yeast that is developing from the internal sugar. This yeast is what gets the fermentation started in the tanks.
Love this shot. The hazy film on the grapes is the natural yeast that is developing from the internal sugar. This yeast is what gets the fermentation started in the tanks.15-Feb-2011 09:09, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 5.6, 38.0mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 800 |
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 A rose by any other name…. is still a rose.
A rose by any other name…. is still a rose.15-Feb-2011 09:45, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 10.0, 54.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Okay, take your shoes off and let’s get to stomping!
Okay, take your shoes off and let's get to stomping!15-Feb-2011 09:37, SONY DSC-H55, 4.5, 10.54mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80 |
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 At Kaiken were were allowed to blend our own wine. This was serious competition.
At Kaiken were were allowed to blend our own wine. This was serious competition.15-Feb-2011 10:22, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100 |
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 Tracy was making damn sure the formula was correct.
Tracy was making damn sure the formula was correct.15-Feb-2011 10:26, SONY DSC-H55, 4.0, 6.33mm, 0.025 sec, ISO 125 |
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 Great teamwork girls!
Great teamwork girls!15-Feb-2011 10:32, Panasonic DMC-FX07, 3.8, 8.8mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 400 |
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 Now for the tasting of our wines, wow was this hard.
Now for the tasting of our wines, wow was this hard.15-Feb-2011 10:42, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 200 |
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 The judges, Tiffany and Tracy, our guides.
The judges, Tiffany and Tracy, our guides.15-Feb-2011 10:43, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.25mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 100 |
 Next was Ruca Malen.
Next was Ruca Malen.15-Feb-2011 11:52, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 28.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
 What a shot, right!
What a shot, right!15-Feb-2011 13:05, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 10.0, 42.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 A wine pairing lunch to stop the senses.
A wine pairing lunch to stop the senses.15-Feb-2011 13:07, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 5.0, 14.0mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 800 |
 Doug could not stop counting the glasses.
Doug could not stop counting the glasses.15-Feb-2011 11:17, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 5.0, 19.0mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 800 |
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 And again, beautiful food.
And again, beautiful food.15-Feb-2011 11:46, SONY DSC-H55, 3.5, 4.26mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 320 |
 And lots of tasting. A Malbec, a chardonnay, another malbec, then a cabernet sauvingnon, then the reserve top end Malbec and then a finish with Champaign. Whew!!
And lots of tasting. A Malbec, a chardonnay, another malbec, then a cabernet sauvingnon, then the reserve top end Malbec and then a finish with Champaign. Whew!!15-Feb-2011 13:07, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 3.2, 14.0mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 800 |
 Okay I just had to show it again.
Okay I just had to show it again.15-Feb-2011 13:05, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 11.0, 29.0mm, 0.001 sec, ISO 800 |
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 Toes in the grass kind of lunch!
Toes in the grass kind of lunch!15-Feb-2011 13:12, OLYMPUS CORPORATION E-1 , 9.0, 33.0mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 800 |
 And again, those Andes dominated every view.
And again, those Andes dominated every view.13-Feb-2011 08:44, SONY DSC-W350, 5.0, 15.63mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 80 |
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 Andys’ 60th birthday that night was celebrated with homemade Pizzas and… you guessed it MORE WINE!
Andys' 60th birthday that night was celebrated with homemade Pizzas and… you guessed it MORE WINE!15-Feb-2011 18:28, SONY DSC-W350, 3.2, 6.74mm, 0.033 sec, ISO 200 |
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 Happy Birthday Andy. Now if you would only look and act your age!
Happy Birthday Andy. Now if you would only look and act your age!15-Feb-2011 20:04, SONY DSC-W350, 2.7, 4.7mm, 0.125 sec, ISO 400 |
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 We had a great villa.
We had a great villa.12-Feb-2011 14:20, SONY DSC-W350, 14.0, 15.63mm, 0.02 sec, ISO 80 |
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12-Feb-2011 09:05, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 2.8, 5.7mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 80 |
12-Feb-2011 09:41, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 5.5, 5.7mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 80 |
 More shots of downtown Mendoza
More shots of downtown Mendoza12-Feb-2011 09:42, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 2.8, 5.7mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80 |
 What a great city with lots of parks and plazas.
What a great city with lots of parks and plazas.12-Feb-2011 09:56, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 2.8, 5.7mm, 0.005 sec, ISO 80 |
12-Feb-2011 11:06, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 2.8, 5.7mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 80 |
12-Feb-2011 11:07, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 2.8, 5.7mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 80 |
12-Feb-2011 11:08, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 2.8, 5.7mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 120 |
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12-Feb-2011 19:03, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 2.8, 5.7mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 120 |
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 Now us Americans in South America are starved for a little Gringo culture so we went nuts for the Mendoza WalMart!
Now us Americans in South America are starved for a little Gringo culture so we went nuts for the Mendoza WalMart!13-Feb-2011 09:03, SONY DSC-W350, 4.5, 13.14mm, 0.003 sec, ISO 80 |
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 Every street was tree lined and shady. Good thing because it can get in the 90s on a regular basis.
Every street was tree lined and shady. Good thing because it can get in the 90s on a regular basis.13-Feb-2011 12:52, SONY DSC-W350, 2.7, 4.7mm, 0.017 sec, ISO 80 |
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13-Feb-2011 12:18, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 2.8, 5.7mm, 0.01 sec, ISO 80 |
 Careful not to sit on the bench after the sprinklers have run!
Careful not to sit on the bench after the sprinklers have run!13-Feb-2011 12:42, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 5.5, 5.7mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 80 |
13-Feb-2011 12:44, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 4.6, 13.7mm, 0.002 sec, ISO 80 |
13-Feb-2011 12:46, EASTMAN KODAK COMPANY KODAK EASYSHARE M320 Digital Camera, 2.8, 5.7mm, 0.004 sec, ISO 80 |
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 To Good Friends, Good Wine and More of Both!!!
To Good Friends, Good Wine and More of Both!!!12-Feb-2011 19:36, SONY DSC-W350, 2.7, 4.7mm, 0.008 sec, ISO 800 |
The Woman’s Bridge. The design is meant to represent a man and woman doing the tango.
The woman is the represented by the curved walkway lying down as if she is being dipped in a Tango, the man is represented by… well… I guess we can all figure that one out.
© 2012 Fene & Marilyn. All Rights Reserved.
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