Have you studied Spanish for a lifetime, but don’t want to study in Spain? Do you want the conveniences of Europe without doing what everyone else does? Well ,thinking south to GLA’s new Argentina program might be best direction for you to be heading.
For those who think this is hyperbole, let’s play a game. Imagine you are walking through a town square watching the locals sip coffee underneath the Baroque lined buildings. Are you in Madrid or Buenos Ares? Well it’s a trick question, you could be in both. From lifestyle to architecture and everything else in between, the Argentines take deep inspiration from their European compatriots.
If your ideal study abroad dinner consists of a rotation of pasta, sausages, endless desserts and copious amounts of wine then Argentina can cover you just as well as Italy, England, Switzerland and France—and sometimes even better. Argentinian favorites such as Asado, Empanadas, and Dulce de Leche add European sophistication to your palates with some South American intrigue. And while the vineyards of France are world-renowned, Argentine reds such as Syrah and Malbec have held their own in any world wine competition (though you won’t be drinking any wine while on your trip with GLA, you can appreciate its history and local cultural significance).
For many students, experiencing the local culture of their host country is just as integral as what they learn in the classroom itself and Argentina lends itself to European sensibility with a touch of Latin flair—no wonder many call Buenos Ares the Paris of the East. Many of the aesthetic qualities of architecture and fashion allow you to trace the integration of Spanish and other Euro centric influences from 17th century until today. The colorful neighborhood of La Boca in Buenos Ares for example is modeled after many of the architectural styles of Genoa, Italy. When going out to watch a night of sports, both the fandom and play of either soccer (or football) and rugby equal many of Europe’s most talented clubs. Just remember to carry a shirt to cover up your blue and white painted chest for when you hit the town for a few Cervesas after the match. When in Rome; or Buenos Ares I should say.
Contributed by Matt Zonis
