Question time

Your questions answered....

"I thought South America was a lawless place but Argentina sounds very bucolic...."
Argentina is the most European of S.American countries. When you talk to people, there is real sadness and frustration that they aren't one of the great countries in the world, as they have the capacity to be. The general view is that the political corruption is currently holding them back, on top of years of military juntas. At the ground level, most people are very keen to give a good impression of their country and help you out. While we have heard stories of backpackers being mugged and robbed, it's pretty rare.

The country has a developed infrastructure (coach network that puts ours to shame) and educated, cultured people. There is an underlying current of poverty (especially since the economic collapse in 2001) but it is not as exaggerated as other S. American countries. There also seems to be more of a middle class here than in other S.American countries (where there are just rich and poor).

So, yes, it has its issues, but it is pretty safe, easy to travel round, good tourism infrastructure (the Argentines travel a lot inside their own country), and the scenery is stunning.

What, apart from friends and family, do you miss from home?
Hah! There's a big assumption!

Kara: I thought about this long and hard. In the first week I missed my lightweight jumper I forgot to pack but I bought a new one out here. I also wish we'd bought a small laptop as there is free wifi everywhere. But, to be brutally honest, I miss nothing. I love backpacking, having all I need in one bag, I love travelling, I love meeting new people, speaking in Castellano...just love it.

Martin:

• the pub (particulary ale)
• curry
• pesto
• being fit