Mendoza

Hola! Arrived in Mendoza safe and sound - and surprisingly refreshed! After very little sleep Friday night, followed by a really enjoyable 2hr run with Kami Saturday morning around the lakes in the fabulous sunshine and 30+ deg weather, I was ready for a good sleep by the time we got on the long flight from JFK to Buenos Aires last night. I can usually sleep well enough on long haul flights so after reading a bit I dozed off for most of the 11hrs.

We had to change to the domestic airport in Buenos A. so we had allowed plenty of time for that which was cool as the smaller airport is a pretty nice spot so we had some food... and yes, a glass of Malbec... well, I lasted a whole month! Then a 2hr flight over here to Menoza where the temperature is a fabulous 30 deg C and the evening is still perfectly bright at 8pm!

Almost all of the group were already at the hotel where we arrived so we met for about 20 mins to run through some logistics and will have dinner later. Turns out the group is 12 people (thought it was 6 but Mountain Professionals combine with another company called Summit Climb) so both guides will join us for the trek. A good mix of nationalities and ages - two females - though there is one person not here yet.

Tomorrow morning we have a gear check and then pack up for the jeep journey to Penetenties, from where we depart by foot Tuesday morning.

Planning to get out for a run in the early morning to explore the town. I like it already just from the taxi ride. Beautiful buildings, some falling apart a little but in an attractive way. And lots of parks and tree lined aviendos.

Not sure if there is internet access for next few days but will be online again at basecamp. Also, the guides have a blog at www.mtnprofessionals.com and www.summitclimb.com.