Hell I've been here for almost a month and sadly I have to return first to Bogota then the cold Michigan Weather.
Because I joined BAEXPATS before I arrived I've been able to live in BA and move around the city as if I've been here for months; the advice I have been given (and chose to follow) has been most helpful; its been a great few weeks here, luckily we were here for the birth of my wife's first grandchild on 4 January; life is good!
I have yet to had any problems with store clerks, wait staff, government officials, taxis, SUBTE, everyone who I have had a personal interaction with has been probably more friendly then back in Michigan.
What's the problem??? For me there isn't one; I am a temporary guest in a country that I don't know the intracacies of daily life or the cronyism, corruption, etc. My luggage went through the X-Ray machine, as did my camera and I-Phone and I-Pad; was told Buenos Noches to which I replied Gracias, found our driver and came directly to the apartment.
With the help of some of you I was able to get a prescription for much needed medication - by following the advice I was given; for that I am grateful. Reading some of the posts on the forums holds so true (with regards to other forums I visit) that the anonimity of a keyboard and monitor gives people the freedom to say what they wouldn't (or probably shouldn't) say face to face. I can be guilty of it as well!
Anyway Expats, thanks for being here for when I needed advice; we shall be back, next summer; see you then!