Travel To Argentina

Renda asked:


I put down Pampas, but someone else in a different question suggested that Pampas is actually a flatland located in southern Argentina between Andes and the Atlantic Ocean. I though that would be Patagonia. Can someone set the record straight?

Rebecca

JHVoodooSS asked:


i am moving to Argentina from the uk. what bank should i open an account with so that i can minimise bank charges when withdrawing money in Argentina?
i currently have a clydesdale bank account.

Sydney

Bill Garlough asked:


Perfect Pairings

April 9, 2008 – as published in the Beacon News and Naperville Sun

By Bill Garlough

With May approaching, we don our sombreros as we head south of the border for the celebration of Cinco de Mayo. While margaritas and beer are the typical beverages of choice, wine also offers an interesting pairing with Mexican cuisine.

As winter continued to linger, my wife and I recently fled to Mexico for a warm change of pace. Besides better weather, Mexico offers world-class culture and cuisine. Mexico has significant history behind its wine industry, as it has the oldest wineries in the new world. The Spaniards established grape growing and wineries in the sixteenth century, as they colonized this part of the new world. The majority of grapes were used for brandy production and food, with a small amount used to make table wine.

Two important wine regions today are Aquascalientes on the northeastern gulf side and the Baja Peninsula on the northwest side of Mexico. Both have ideal, Mediterranean-style climates for grape growing. The days are hot and the ocean breeze cools the grape crops at night, allowing the sugars to develop while preserving the grape’s acidity levels.

While dining, we tried Mexican and South American wines with our meals. Some of our favorite Mexican wines included Chateau Camou’s Vino Blanco, Monte Xanic’s Chenin Colombard and L.A. Cetto’s Chardonnay. These wines are all produced on the Baja Peninsula, along the Pacific coast. Delighted with these new wine discoveries, we looked in our favorite wine stores when we returned. Unfortunately, Mexican wine production is low, and these brands are not yet established in the Midwest. However, you may run across these wines when you visit the American Southwest, southern California or Mexico.

As an alternative to Mexican wines, when planning your next south-of-the-border fiesta, consider wines from Chile and Argentina. They are the two major producers in South America and offer quality, affordable wines that are readily available.

Flavor pairings

As Chef Rick Bayless has demonstrated on his TV cooking shows, although Mexican cuisine is commonly thought of as tacos, burritos and guacamole, it comes in many styles, flavors and presentations. The flavors tend to be big, bold and spicy and some of the wines from Argentina and Chile pair well with this cuisine.

Young, fruity and un-oaked wines pair best. Chilean wines that work well are the clean crisp sauvignon blancs and medium-bodied, spicy Carmenere. The king of wine from Argentina is the lighter, velvety red Malbec and this also pairs well with this cuisine. All of these are food friendly, reasonably priced wines and are readily available at your local wine shop.

It’s said that variety is the spice of life. So next time a margarita or beer won’t do with your Mexican cuisine, try one of these South American wine pleasers.

Ideal climate

MANGO SALSA

Here is a recipe for mango salsa that we make fresh at My Chef Catering in Naperville. It can be served with tortilla chips or as a fresh and flavorful topping for grilled chicken or fish.

16 ounces fresh mango, diced

4 ounces pineapple, diced

2 ounces green pepper, diced

2 ounces red pepper, diced

4 ounces red onion, diced

1 ounce jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced

3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped

2 ounces honey

1 tablespoon Tabasco sauce

Juice from 1 fresh lime

3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Yields 1 quart.

Combine all ingredients in glass bowl and mix well. Refrigerate for 1 hour before serving.

 

Bill’s Picks

Consider one of these south-of-the-border wines for your next fiesta. (Listed with suggested retail pricing).

White wines

Catena Chardonnay - Argentina: $17

Crios Sauvignon Blanc (blend) - Argentina: $13

Casa Silva Reserva Sauvignon Blanc - Chile: $10

Red wines

Punto Final Malbec - Argentina: $10

Crios Malbec - Argentina: $13

Concha y Toro Carmenere - Chile: $10

For more from Bill Garlough’s Perfect Pairings visit My Chef



Jonathon

mu asked:


I’m considering all my options, but would like to move to S. America in the next month or so to work and improve my Spanish. I hear that it is a little difficult for people to get an apartment in Argentina if you are not from there. Is there a large deposit? Or do I have to find a sponsor?

Darrell

jenna_92673 asked:


The marking on the silverware
PLATA LAPAS S.A ARGENTINA

Philip

Enrique Helmbrecht asked:


If you travel abroad to learn a language, choose to learn Spanish in Argentina and enjoy the incredible destination of Bariloche. I had the opportunity to learn Spanish in Argentina and I have visited Bariloche two times already. During my both stays I found two different cities, one during winter and another during spring.

Fully covered with snow, Bariloche in winter receives thousands of visitors that come to practice ski in internationally renowned resorts. Learn Spanish in Argentina and enjoy trips to Mount Cathedral, the most visited ski resort. Go further and amaze yourself with Mount Bayo as you learn Spanish in Argentina. This mountain is steeper and fully equipped for professionals. All ski resorts count with cable cars that will take to the top of each peak; the picture of Bariloche from above, all covered with whiteness, is just astonishing. Learn Spanish in Argentina and reach the top of the hill, where you can enjoy a hot chocolate with croissants or have lunch in one of the many incredible restaurants built on the solid rocks.

If you have the chance to learn Spanish in Argentina and visit Bariloche during summer you will encounter a different landscape but as attractive as the one found in winter. During spring and summer the image gives a sudden turn, now landscapes are fully covered by colorful and varied flowers. Learn Spanish in Argentina and go around natural paths among pines and woods that are excellent to practice mountain bike or just to stroll and relax. As you learn Spanish in Argentina take your time to discover the natural species that flourish in Bariloche, including the Arayan, Cypress and Cohiue trees. Flowers are found everywhere, roses, lilies, lavender, geraniums and many more.

Learn Spanish in Argentina and take a boat trip around the large Nahuel Huapi lake, a distinguishing feature of the Bariloche landscape. Its deep blue waters are surrounded by high peaks and mountains and rocky coasts. Besides practicing water sports as you learn Spanish in Argentina, you will learn about the legends and mysteries of the Nahuel Huapi Lake. One of these legends affirm that a huge monster, similar to the Lock-ness monster, lives submerged in under the dark waters. So if you enjoy adventure and mysterious regions, Bariloche is definitely the best place to learn Spanish in Argentina.

Learn Spanish in Argentina is a wonderful experience, you can make lot of friends in the incredible discos and pubs full of young people that come from all over Argentina. It is a tradition in Argentina that after finishing school, students travel to Bariloche to celebrate their achievement. So while you learn Spanish in Argentina you will find students from every province of the country coming during summer or winter vacations, giving you the perfect opportunity to know people from every corner of Argentina and get to know different cultures and customs in just one place.

Whatever the season you choose to learn Spanish in Argentina, Bariloche will always surprise you with diverse and fun activities during every month of the year.



Angelina

alton r asked:


I am contemplating on moving to Argentina as i am a dis-abled American whom has trouble making $/ends meeet here in the u.s.a.-i do know that the exchange rate is like 3/1$ in favor of the u.s. currency however i am having trouble finding affordable/cheap housing there as i keep running into travel agaencies w/comprable rent to America’s=so please help me find on my computer;links,ect=as to get my housing finincial needs met in Argentina…thanks & may god bless you!!!Robert A.

Leroy

Erin Kelly asked:


Gullivers Sports Travel has been named Best Sports Specialist 2007 by South African Airways UK.

South African Airways UK’s annual awards honour its top performing trade partners for their support.  Gullivers was recognised and celebrated for the high volume of flights it requires from the airline for the many tours and incentive travel it organises to South Africa every year.

In recent years, Gullivers has seen South Africa become its number one touring destination for clubs and schools, for all types of sports, and as an official licensed operator for the British & Irish Lions Tour to South Africa 2009, the company estimates that it will take 3,000 rugby supporters over next year as well.

John Hall, Chairman of Gullivers Sports Travel said: “Gullivers is delighted to be awarded the title of Best Sports Specialist by South African Airways UK – it comes from years of arranging travel to one of the most captivating destinations in the world.  We first took clients to South Africa in 1980 - our inaugural Lions tour – just 100 people!  We’ve now taken thousands and awards like these show how much the company has moved forward.”

Gullivers is well known for its involvement in major sporting events such as Rugby World Cups and Ashes Tours. Although this is an important part of their business, equally important are the smaller events and playing tours and they pride ourselves on their service and attention to detail whatever the scale of the project.

Gullivers Incentives is a specialist department organising corporate conferences and incentive trips overseas. Their operations have included chartering cruise liners in the Caribbean, flower arrangers convention in South Africa, a Welsh speaking convention to Patagonia in Argentina, zoologists to Zimbabwe and Radio Hams to Ohio for their annual “Hamvention”. They’re happy to take on any challenge that you can throw at them!



Graham

Ryan Wiseman asked:


The 12th-annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will take place September 28 to November 11, 2007, with a “Tastefully Inspired” theme and events that include food and wine tastings, celebrity-chef cooking demonstrations, beer and wine seminars, nightly concerts, street performers and children’s activities. Admission to the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is included with regular Epcot park admission.

“With delicous cuisine, an extensive list of international wines, fascinating seminars and live entertainment through the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, the 12th-annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival promises something for everyone in the whole family,” said Kyle Collins, Director of Interactive Marketing for HotelsCorp.com. “Make sure to plan your itinerary before arriving to Epcot so you can enjoy all that the 2007 International Food & Wine Festival has to offer.”

INTERNATIONAL MARKETPLACE

The International Marketplace at the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival allows you to take a one-of-a-kind culinary tour around the world. Stop by each marketplace for eclectic appetizers that are in the $2-$4 range, along with recommended beer and wine pairings.

Africa: Morocco, South Africa

Asia: China, India, Japan

Caribbean: Dominican Republic

Continental Europe: Champagne, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Spain

Eastern Europe: Poland, Turkey

Latin America: Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Peru

North America: Canada, Great Beers of the World, Hops & Barley Market, Oklahoma, United States

Pacific Rim: Australia, New Zealand

SPECIAL EXHIBITS

The promenade at the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will feature a variety of interesting cultural exhibits and demonstrations:

American Wine Adventure: Take a regional tour of the New York and Napa Valley wine regions at the American Wine Adventure.

Andes Mountain Wine Bar: Enjoy great wines from Argentina and Chile at the Andes Mountain Wine Bar.

Australia: Discover Down Under: Take a tasting tour of Australia’s four major wine regions and pick out souvenirs at the Birdsville Provisions shop.

Dominican Republic: Daily culinary demonstrations, live entertainment crafts and more will take place at the Dominican Republic exhibit.

Festival Welcome Center: Conveniently located at the Wonders of Life Pavilion, the Festival Welcome Center will feature a Festival Wine Shop, wine and champagne bar and Festival Merchandise Shop. The Festival Welcome Center also will serve as the official celebrity book signing area.

The History of Beer in America: Learn the history of American beer with complimentary seminars that take place daily at 12:30 PM, 1:15 PM, 2:45 PM, 4:15 PM, 5:15 PM and 6:30 PM.

International Beers of the World: Enjoy complimentary seminars daily at the International Beers of the World exhibit.

Oklahoma 1907-2007: Cooking demonstrations, storytelling, exhibits and children’s activities will all make up this unique exhibit as Oklahoma celebrates 100 years of statehood.

Pearville Fear: A county fair-style exhibit that celebrates the “variety, flavor, diversity and nutritional importance” of this popular fruit.

Peru: Learn all about Inca culture and Peruvian cuisine at the Peru exhibit, which also features arts & crafts displays and Peruvian culinary demonstrations.

10-Day Regional Experiences: Michoacan, Mexico (October 5-14, 2007); Puglia, Italy (October 19-28, 2007); Greek Wine Bar Island (October 26-November 4, 2007).

Turkey Welcomes You: Enjoy Turkish cooking demonstrations, traditional Turkish art and crafts displays, exhibits and a Grand Bazaar.

Twinings Tea Bar: Explore the interesting history of Twinings tea as you stroll through the beautiful Twinings Garden.

EAT TO THE BEAT CONCERT SERIES

All Eat to the Beat Concert Series performances at the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will take place at the America Gardens Theatre in front of the U.S.A. Pavilion at Epcot’s World Showcase. Show times are 5:45 PM, 7 PM and 8:15 PM.

Al Stewart: September 28-29, 2007

Otis Day and the Knights: September 30 - October 1, 2007

The Beach Boys: October 2-3, 2007

The Original Family Stone: October 4-6, 2007

Sheena Easton: October 7-9, 2007

Starship starring Mickey Thomas: October 10-13, 2007

David Cassidy: October 14-16, 2007

Little Richard: October 17-18, 2007

Juice Newton: October 19-21, 2007

The Four Tops: October 22-25, 2007

Village People: October 26-27, 2007

Expose: October 28-30, 2007

Jon Secada: October 31 - November 3, 2007

Chubby Checker and the Wildcats: November 4-6, 2007

The Contours featuring Sylvester Potts - November 7-8, 2007

David Sanborn - November 9-11, 2007

SPECIAL WINE & CULINARY PROGRAMS

A wide range of wine and culinary programs are scheduled for the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (additional costs apply):

A South African Wine Adventure: Friday, October 12, 2007, World Showplace

Chefs A’ Field - Kids on the Farm: Wednesdays, 10:30 AM-12:30 PM, Odyssey - The Chef’s Showplace

The Cook, The Book and The Bottle: Fridays, 10:30 AM-12:30 PM, Odyssey - The Chef’s Showplace

Discovering Wine: A Sensory Adventure: Various dates, Citricos, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Food & Wine Pairings: Various locales and dates

Odyssey Kitchen Conversations: Select Thursdays, 3-4:30 PM, Odyssey - The Chef’s Showplace

Sweet Sundays: Sundays, 10:30 AM-12:30 PM, Odyssey - The Chef’s Showplace

Vertical Wine Tastings: Saturdays, 1:30 PM-3 PM, California Grill, Disney’s Contemporary Resort

FESTIVAL DINING OPPORTUNITIES

Don’t miss the opportunity to experience incredible cuisine and an extensive wine selection during the 2007 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival (additional costs apply):

Exquisite Evenings at Epcot: Enjoy a five-course meal prepared by the Festival’s team of celebrity chefs.

Party for the Senses - Eat, Drink and Celebrate: Enjoy a reserved seat at the Eat to the Beat Concert Series and then sit down to a delicious meal, along with entertaining acts from Cirque du Soleil La Nouba.

Regional Feasts: Celebrate cuisine from the diverse regions of the world during Regional Feasts, which includes a welcome reception, four-course meal and live entertainment.

Signature Dining: Celebrity chefs are invited to prepare a five-course meal at select Walt Disney World Resort restaurants.

FAMILY EVENTS

The 2007 Epcot Food & Wine Festival offers something for the entire family such as the Junior Chef Program, Behind the Seeds Greenhouse Tour, Kidcot Fun Stops, Pearville Fair and Oklahoma 1907-2007.



Lindsey

Robert asked:


According to the ledgend, the woman lost to the King and wished to end her life by eating rotten table grapes stored in a jar. The suicide attempt did not go as she planned; instead she got drunk and eventually passed out. When she awoke, she felt as if all her troubles had disappeared and this event encouraged her to continue taking the fermented grapes. So going by this pleasant story, one can say that wine is not an invention of man but was, rather found by luck.

The history of wine is as old as civilization, the agriculture and the man himself. Historians suggest that wine was discovered accidentally during 6000 and 5000 BC. in the Fertile Crescent area, an area in between the Nile and the Persian Gulf. Archeological evidence has uncovered the earliest European wine production from crushed grapevines in Macedonia 6500 years ago.

From the time of discovery of wine to this present date, wine has played a very crucial role in many rituals and customs of modern society . In the ancient Egyptian period, wine became an integral part of ceremonial life, mainly funerary ceremonies. Only the richest Egyptians like the Pharaohs were able to drink wine. Wine was also common place in ancient Greece and Rome and in many other European countries.

The Egyptian Phase

Though scientists have identified a wine jar from Hajji Firuz Tepe in the Northern Zagros Mountains of Iran, the widespread knowledge of wine making is believed to have come from Egypt. The wine making process was represented on tomb walls dating back to 2600 BC. Maria Rosa, a master in Egyptology says that wine in ancient Egypt was of great importance and only the upper class people and kings had access to wine. Rosa further points out that the ancient Egyptians labeled the wine jars with product, year, growning area and the vine grower’s name, but there is no mention about the color of the wines. A recent discovery has shown that the wines in ancient Egypt were usually red.

The Ancient Greeks

Arrival of wine making process in ancient Greece is not well noted; many believe that wine manufacturing tradition was introduced to Crete by the Phoenician traders. Strong evidence of wine production have also been collected from Minoan Mycenaean cultures.

Wine was a very important trading article in Greece commerce. The Greeks were able to set up their colonies throughout the Mediterranean and this in turn improved the export of Greek wines in the region. The Greeks learned how to prevent wines from spoilage by adding different herbs and spices. Wine in ancient Greece was stirred in a glass before drinking.

Apart from trading, the Greeks used wine in the field of medical sciences. One of the well known medicine practitioners, Hippocrates, also known as the Father of Medicine studied wine extensively for its use in medical sciences, specially to reduce fever, convalescence and as an antiseptic. It must be mentioned here that the Greeks were equally aware about the negative health effects produced by consuming too much wine.

The Ancient Romans

The Romans discovered the viticulture (cultivation and study of grape growing) and oenology (the science of wine and winemaking). In the Roman Empire, wine formed a large part of their daily meals as water could not always be trusted to be safe and clean. During this period, wine making technology became more established with a significant impact on the Roman business. The Romans developed wooden barrels to store and ship wine, while bottles were used for the first time in the history of the wine world. The ancient Romans are also known to have dissolved pearls in wine for their better health.

With the expansion of Roman Empire, wine production expanded to all of its provinces. During the Dark Ages when Roman Empire collapsed and when Europe passed through social and political fracture, wine production was kept alive by the efforts of religious monks. Churches are known to have developed some of the finest vineyards in Europe.

Ancient China and Wine

Although wine was not much of a favorite of the ancient Chinese people, its production and drinking was popular in three different periods, mainly the Han Dynasty, Tang Dynasty and the Yuan Dynasty. In China rice wine was not as popular as the grape wine.

Wine in the Middle Ages and Today

Wine became popular in the Middle Ages, it was considered as a social drink for all occasions. In the northern regions of the Europe where no grapes were grown, beer and ale were predominant and in the Eastern part white vodka was the preferred drink.

America, Chile, Argentina, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand that manufacture wide varieties of wines are considered as the New World Wine Producers. The products of these countries were not well known to the wine consumers until late in the 20th Century.

The industrial revolution in the 20th century has provided wine makers with new technology and innovation that has made making much more efficient. Considerable R&D advances in viticulture and oenology have helped the present day manufacturers to produce more varieties of wines of much lower cost.



Chandler