It hasn't been quite a week since I've been in Buenos Aires and I keep thinking that I should update folks on what life has been like since arriving. And (un)fortunately, it hasn't been all that different than my life in Chicago. Except that everyone keeps speaking Spanish to me. And I keep saying, bien, bien (good, good). Since arriving, I haven't felt great. I don't know if I am fighting a cold, still recovering from traveling, lazy, or minorly allergic to something, but I've had inflamed sinuses and been exhuasted still. It's good thing that I now live in a city where Siestas are expected and common. Plus, they don't eat dinner until at least 9:30 or 10 at night, so you return home at 12 or 1 and have to be at work (or school) at 8 or 9. You need a siesta to make that lifestyle!
I'm in my first week of classes at the immersion school and so far it's been great. I've moved to one different class and my teacher would like me to move to the next one next week. But right now, I'm enjoying the review so I can really remember how to create sentences, re learn lost vocabulary, and make sure I'm confident with the basics. The problem is that I can understand so much more than I can create, so it's sometimes hard to respond or express what I would like to say, but I know what I'm expected to say. I'm confident that by the end of the 3 months, I'll be a Spanish-speaking expert. I've met some really cool people-- mostly Americans, Brits, Aussies, and Danish folks. Quite a few are taking a year off of work or before working to travel the world. I am kind of jealous when I hear that: taking a year to see as much of the world as possible. I've always wanted to do that. Don't get me wrong: 3 months here is fantastic, so I will have to do parts much more slowly than the others. But I will "see the world" in due time.
My apartment is great. Perfect for one person. I've tried to uploaded a couple of pictures here so you can see where I live, but it isn't working. Perhaps another day. I feel very safe in my building and my neighborhood. In case you're wondering, I have access to Coka Cola Light and Coka Cola Zero. Also, I have lots of Law and Order, E! TV, Vh1, and the Hallmark channel. I won't die while here. And I'm doing just fine. It's been great to connect with those with whom I've connected and look forward to remaining in contact with the rest!
8 comments:
not a surprize that where one lives is much like another. When you begin to dream in Spanish then you will be truly emmersed
Glad to hear you've met some good people, have access to all the, um, important tv channels, and feel safe where you are living. We'll be praying that you feel better soon (at least you get a siesta!) I hope la segunda semana is even better! :)
hola mi amiga! Lo siento...um, que estas... enfermir? sick-ay? yuck-o? espero que estas mas bueno...mas tarde.
There. How was that? ;)
oh, and "vamos al jardin ahora?" I remember that one...
It must be really great watching E! TV and VH1 dubbed in Spanish... Hilarious in fact. That would make the whole trip worth it.
I am also fascinated by this concept of Siestas. Please report further :)
good to hear you're well :)
Sounds great. Hope you feel better soon. What's the cafe scene like? Where do people hang out? I'm so curious. Stay hydrated and rested! Que tenga buena semana promixma.
Glad your move has been successful. My advice on the inability to "create" responses in Spanish is simply to try and fail. DOn't worry about saying the perfect response, just say something. If you misspeak, oh well, that's how you learn. Just say something.
Hola!! my advice is the same.. just speak.. that is how i learned in china and they will correct you.. no one will really laugh at you but I bet you will end up making a few friends and giggling along the way..as i have a ton of stories of miscommunication..can't wait to read more..
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