Mendoza, Argentina

Today is a bit of a lazy start as I get chatting to Javier over breakfast. He is suggesting a trip to the Andes on Thursday or Friday would be good. It sounds like a worthwhile trip, as I am not taking the route on the bus like most do to Santiago. As for today though, I am going to explore more of the city. I genuinely have lost my sense of direction, it seems to be taking me 4 or 5 attempts to find places which is frustrating given the simple grid system the city is structured in. I eventually manage to walk through each of the 4 Plazas that surround Plaza Independencia – Espana, Chile, Italia and of course San Martin which is unfortunately under construction hoarding. San Martin used Mendoza as his strategic base for his Andes Army which after winning Argentina its independence went on to march over the Andes to support Chille in their victory. The flag of the army is kept in Mendoza but for some reason the memorial is closed despite the sign stating it should be open. I walk to the information office in a nearby building that has a roof terrace where to can see panoramic views of the city and the Andes, great view. Definitely decide to do the trip into the Andes as the mountains look amazing. I continue to Bernard O Higgins park and around a few architectural sites, including the home of San Martin. I feel I have walked my feet off today, mainly going the wrong way but I manage to get back to the house with a few groceries for dinner. I spent a nice evening with two Israeli girls watching old Friends episodes, still make me laugh.