Teal, the Ultimate Soul Food

Today is my last day in Bariloche.  A full four days were spent here.  We went on numerous hikes, rafted down the Rio Monso, and went on an incredible boat ride. 


First off, the hostel I'm staying at seems to be the local hangout. With a bar right down the stairs, and the beach right past that, Barilocheñas (the people who are actually fortunate enough to live here) are constantly coming in and out.  Speaking with an Argentine accent, having the bluest eyes, the tan skin, dark hair--most amazing people I have ever spoken with.  And I'm not just talking about the men, the women as well.  They are equally beautiful. Every Wednesday, the hostel hosts a party.  With live music, and great people, there is no better place to be.  Something strange I noticed, only American music was coming out of the speakers.  When the DJ was playing, it was electronic music, and a lot of Coldplay.  When the band came on, Motown and Tracy Chapman were the big hits. Everyone was up and dancing, under the full moon, with the lake in the background--it is going to take a lot for me to leave this city, not knowing the next time I will be back. 

Rafting el Rio Monso made me realize how small this world truly is.  Our guide new some people that guide in Missoula. These two places are very similar, so it's not to big of a shock that people living half way across the world know each other. The same vibe flows through the streets of this town, that flow through every mountain town.  The raft guides in the summer turn into ski guides in the winter. 


Speaking of skiing, I made a mistake in my last entry, I didn't go to the main ski resort, but a smaller one. Comparable to snow king.  El Catedral is the real deal.  I made it up there on Wednesday. This resort is one I will ski this July.  There is no way I am not returning.

I also ventured into a little store, where I was lucky enough to talk with the owners.  It was a wool co-op, which made the most spectacular items. The story behind this co-op was one that contained some tribulations, but in the overall scheme of things, they are highly successful. Some of the most beautiful shawls were draped across the tiny store--most taking up to three months to make. 

Today, we took a boat ride. A surprise boat ride in fact. A very classy boat, stocked with delicious food, and a great tour guide led us down el Brazo Tristeza.  We then got off the boat and went for a beautiful hike along multiple water falls, ending up at Lago Frey. The guide spent most of his time talking about the flora and fauna of Bariloche, a very interesting topic to discuss. 

Teal. I never thought a color would affect me so much. Teal. One syllable, four letters, and has the ability seep into ones body, and change their life. Not a drastic life change, but damn, I am feeling great! Teal is the designated color of Patagonia...well maybe not, but I am officially declaring it so.  The water, the sky, the locals eyes; they all emit the deepest, most invigorating teal color. When I see this color, I get giddy.  A cheesy smile appears on my face, and I let out a school girl giggle.  Remember in 6th grade, when you would see your crush across the hall, and let out a little laugh?  That same laugh comes out of my mouth when I see teal. And teal is everywhere here--so i'm walking around, blatantly looking like an American (the pasty white skin, which is now peeling, and the camera around my neck), laughing like a 10 year old girl.  But I just cant help it, I am so happy.  There is no other way to explain how I feel.  "I'm so happy"--it's almost a cliche; used so much, not intricately written, it doesn't even roll of the tongue smoothly.  But it's true.  Teal has made me fall in love.  With this place, with these people, with  the adventure that is continuing to unfold in the most beautiful of ways.