The team arrived in Mendoza, Argentina today after leaving on flights that originated in the United States yesterday. The flights took us to Santiago, Chile where we changed planes for a quick flight over the Andes to Mendoza. April and Kurt arrived yesterday and spent the day taking care of last minute logistics and purchased food for the expedition. Today they finished up logistics then went to the airport to meet Bill, Fred, and Ralph for their arrivals. After getting settled in the hotel we payed a visit to the Ministry of Tourism where we secured our climbing permits. It is now required for every team member to be present to receive your climbing permit.
With permits secured we had time to relax in this laid back South American city that strictly observes such rituals as “siesta”. Virtually all merchants are closed between 1:30 – 5:30 PM. Siesta provided a nice time for the team to relax at an outdoor cafe and enjoy appetizers and a drink while soaking in the afternoon sun. Temperatures are pleasant this time of year allowing us to comfortably wear shorts and t-shirts even in the evening.
We ate dinner across from La Plaza de Independencia and took a stroll through the park before retiring to bed.
Tomorrow we will drive to Los Penitentes, which is a resort village located at the base of Aconcagua. Here we will unpack our luggage and prepare our food and equipment for the climb.
A couple pictures from the day are below.
April, Ralph, and Fred at the permit office in Mendoza.
Ralph, Bill, and Fred checking out our route at the permit office in Mendoza.
With the permit process complete the team relaxes at an outdoor cafe in Mendoza.
Bill enjoying relaxation and good conversation in Mendoza.
Ralph
Fred
A neon sign in La Plaza de Independencia in the heart of Mendoza welcomes us.
Dinnertime Mendoza style. Outdoors and enjoying the summertime evening we toasted to a nice trip with anticipation of many memorable adventures ahead.
April sampling a glass of famous Mendoza wine while enjoying good conversation at dinner in Mendoza.
Lit up fountains decorate La Plaza de Independencia at night in Mendoza.
The team enjoying an after dinner evening stroll through La Plaza de Independencia.
The team looks great! All the best for a safe and successful climb.
p.s. did you buy any of that soft, white, mushy queso you got last year? That stuff is all the nutrition you need to power up to the summit. 🙂
I love these photos! I’ll be watching you the whole way up, Dad!
Good luck 🙂
-Carolyn
How exciting! We love the photos and comments. Praying for a safe and excellent climb!
LOVE LOVE LOVE following you via comments/photos!! With you in spirit each day. love-Kay