Beyond the Compass Part III

Buenos Aires — First Steps Into the Story

Arriving in Buenos Aires felt less like landing in a city and more like being welcomed into a narrative already unfolding.

We had arranged for a car and driver to meet us at the airport. It was a bit more expensive than taking a cab, but after a long international flight to a country I had never visited, it was absolutely worth it. Walking out of customs and seeing your name on a sign brings an instant sense of calm.

Our driver, Ignacio, didn’t speak much English, but with the help of Google Translate, conversation flowed easily. As we drove toward the city, he proudly dictated stories into his phone—pointing out government buildings, historic churches, and, with unmistakable excitement, the national football team practicing just off to our left. His pride in Argentina was infectious. Before we ever reached the hotel, the day already felt meaningful.

We arrived nearly six hours before official check-in, fully expecting to store our bags and head back out. Instead, we were pleasantly surprised to learn our room was ready. After a quick shower and short rest, we noticed breakfast was still being served in the hotel’s bright atrium. It looked incredible and felt like an unexpected gift. The week was already off to a strong start.

That afternoon, we set out on foot to explore our temporary neighborhood: Recoleta.

Elegant and refined, Recoleta is known for its Parisian-style architecture, leafy parks, luxury boutiques, and one of the most famous cemeteries in the world. Even the name hints at its past—rico (rich) reflecting its affluence, while its European influences quietly echo through the streets. We wandered through parks, explored small neighborhood markets, and let ourselves adjust to the rhythm of the city.

As evening approached, we returned to the hotel to prepare for the highlight of the night—a tango show.

We boarded a complimentary bus straight out of the 1950s, the kind that turns heads as it rolls through the city. The tango performance itself was unforgettable. The dancing was sensual and expressive, the music powerful and commanding. It wasn’t just entertainment—it was storytelling through movement.

It was also our first true introduction to Argentine wine and asado. We quickly learned that wine here is served as naturally as water—and for good reason. By the time we returned to the hotel just before midnight, completely exhausted and completely content, sleep came easily.

Buenos Aires had officially welcomed us—and we were just getting started.

Next up: Food, History, and the Unexpected Friendships That Would Shape the Rest of the Journey.