Buenos Aires Revisited - Tigres

Sunday 29th January 2012

Next day we headed off to the main train station, Estancio Retiro, to catch the local train to Tigres on the delta of the River Plate, a 50 minute journey. Probably not wise to do it on a Sunday in the middle of the school summer holidays but it gave us a great insight into the everyday life of the  BA Portenos! Without local knowledge, we missed out on getting a seat and had to make do with the cattle truck, but at least we got a bum-rest each – a sort of half-seat at hip-height. Next day I realized what an excellent workout for my butt this proved to be!!






Tigres is to Puertenos what Margate or Southend is to Londoners.  It’s a place for a jolly family day out, with (small) beaches, fun-fairs and lots to do – and spend money on. The main outing is a boat cruise around the delta looking at all the old haciendas bordering the water, many of which have been converted into resorts and clubs.

What a splendid tree this is.

Everywhere was heaving, but people seemed to be having a good time despite the 38’ temperature, though the journey back  was pretty hellish, as this train had no windows and the a/c was completely unable to cope and had no effect at all – the only relief was when the door opened at the – many – stations en route.

Still, overall a really interesting day - next stop Montevideo!!