Occasionally I pick up on a bit of scorn in the tone of some people's posts toward 'tourists,' aka people who come to Argentina to live for a year or two or three. I am back in the U.S. for the time being, but having been one such tourist with the perspective afforded one returned to her native country, I'd like to defend us.
First of all, let me be the first to say that I am often annoyed by tourists, especially from my own country. But anyone who has the opportunity and the balls to live abroad should be commended, even the obnoxious ones. Much like urban density results in a higher percentage of open-minded individuals, extended travel results in increased cultural understanding and tolerance, and often makes people more well-rounded (aka less annoying) individuals.
Second of all, being a long-term tourist is HARD. I would argue that in many ways it's harder than picking a country and staying put. For permanent expats, you know that the life you build is yours to keep. You can actively pursue a career; you can buy furniture and even property; you can get a pet, grow plants, and accumulate things without the anxiety that sooner rather than later you'll have to get rid of it all; you can get a DNI and a driver's license; you can forge lasting friendships and relationships without the dread of getting too close before abandoning country.
Raymond Carver said something along the lines of "constant movement is a sign of greater longing." A permanent resident here knows what he wants; Argentina is not perfect but to him, it is at least home. Temporary tourists are in search of something, and while it's exhilirating and a priviledge to be able to cast such a wide net during this search, it's also confusing and often very lonely.
Finally, we have to put up with people's shit when they tell us, "you don't really live here." It's actually quite easy to feel at home after a short time somewhere, especially if one has put effort into assimilating. But to be told that we don't count - that others do not consider our newly adopted home as being actually ours - is harsh and even heartbreaking. If we can't have your support we'll gladly take your silence on the subject.
So, to all you long-term tourists: take heart! You have earned the right to call Argentina home, even if it's just for a short while. Don't let anyone's snobbery or superiority take that away from you.
First of all, let me be the first to say that I am often annoyed by tourists, especially from my own country. But anyone who has the opportunity and the balls to live abroad should be commended, even the obnoxious ones. Much like urban density results in a higher percentage of open-minded individuals, extended travel results in increased cultural understanding and tolerance, and often makes people more well-rounded (aka less annoying) individuals.
Second of all, being a long-term tourist is HARD. I would argue that in many ways it's harder than picking a country and staying put. For permanent expats, you know that the life you build is yours to keep. You can actively pursue a career; you can buy furniture and even property; you can get a pet, grow plants, and accumulate things without the anxiety that sooner rather than later you'll have to get rid of it all; you can get a DNI and a driver's license; you can forge lasting friendships and relationships without the dread of getting too close before abandoning country.
Raymond Carver said something along the lines of "constant movement is a sign of greater longing." A permanent resident here knows what he wants; Argentina is not perfect but to him, it is at least home. Temporary tourists are in search of something, and while it's exhilirating and a priviledge to be able to cast such a wide net during this search, it's also confusing and often very lonely.
Finally, we have to put up with people's shit when they tell us, "you don't really live here." It's actually quite easy to feel at home after a short time somewhere, especially if one has put effort into assimilating. But to be told that we don't count - that others do not consider our newly adopted home as being actually ours - is harsh and even heartbreaking. If we can't have your support we'll gladly take your silence on the subject.
So, to all you long-term tourists: take heart! You have earned the right to call Argentina home, even if it's just for a short while. Don't let anyone's snobbery or superiority take that away from you.
(tongue in cheek obviously!)
