We’re in the heat of the summer and even though bikini season is in full swing here in Argentina and Uruguay, we’ve got our eyes on the future in 2009.  But that doesn’t mean that 2008 won’t come back to haunt us so that’s why I’m here to remind us of the best and worst of 2008 so we can take from the good things and learn from the past so that we don’t let history repeat itself.

BEST OF BA 2008

Democrats Abroad Debate Parties
It was great to see people of all nationalities come together to cheer on the dems in the debates.  Great feats of organization, hand holding, tears of joy, etc etc.

Hair Flowers
Nothing says, “I’m a passionate woman who may have just come from a Latin country” like a flower in your hair.  These little trendy accessories have been around since the Spanish Inquisition however, they’re gaining in popularity again.  Ole!

That perfect little summer dress – in so many shapes and sizes.
What goes better with your little flower in hair accessory than a lovely lazy summer dress.  2008 saw so many designers reinventing that simple dress – some even went very sassy.  Luckily, the right one is out there for anyone who visits this city in the next few months!

Global Awareness
So it’s catching on…earlier this year I reported on the passing of the law for the province of Buenos Aires to start banning the plastic bag. It’s getting easier to see sustainable design here in BA – although we have a long long way to go here, something is better than nothing. I wholeheartedly give my blessing to the continued success of this trend in BA.

Google Maps Reach Argentina
Just a few months ago if you typed in an address in Google Maps for something in Buenos Aires, you would see a big blank page.  Finally, they got the hint and even put in the directions of the streets.  Above and Beyond the call.  Thanks! Google Maps.

WORST OF BA 2008

Poopypants!
Okay, I have to admit, I’ve been seeing these since I first moved here, but I just don’t know how this trend hasn’t stopped.  Seriously peeps, can we not move on?  Friends don’t let other friends wear poopypants.  It’s just not right.

poop! poop!

Fights with the Campo
Mid-year, President Christina took on farmers as they fought for their rights and taxes. This led to the farmers to blockade major routes and stop products from getting to Buenos Aires city.  Shops were without meat, vegetables, low on flours, sugars and other products that come from outside of the capital. Let’s not do this again.

Spare some change?
In the last few years, Argentina (not only BA) has had some problems with spare change – mainly – there isn’t any.  From small shops to large firms, banks and everyone but the bus companies – everyone’s having trouble finding monedas.  But with this economy’s ups and downs it’s worthy to note that the change isn’t even worth the amount of money that it takes to print.

Fires in Ushuaia
Surprisingly, very little notice was given this year to a tragedy at the southernmost city in the world.  Literally hundreds of hectares of forestland have incinerated in the past month due to raging fires in Patagonia.

Visa Fees Announcement for Yanquis
Even though it’s starting in 2009, looks like the Kirchner camp is trying to make a few bucks by playing the reciprocity card.  As of March, 2009, countries that charge a visa application fee will be reciporically charged upon entering the country.  This means you, United States. lookie.

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