22 November 2022
Woke up to a beautiful, quiet morning – safely at Ushuaia.
This morning after breakfast we were in that no man’s land between vacating the cabin and disembarkation. We sat in the Science Centre waiting for our group to be called to the busses. I remember chatting to Linda L and Derek. Goodbyes were said – not being sure if we would see each other once we’re on the move.
After boarding busses for a (very) short ride to the tourist bus stop just outside the port. Yeah, full circle – back to the infamous Ushuaia sign. We were informed that we have about 75 minutes to wander around in town before being transferred to the airport.
I took the opportunity to browse the shop where I purchased my magnet before the trip and take some pictures before returning to the bus. Some shopped more seriously or grabbed a coffee/delicacy at one of the coffee shops.
Then it was back to the little airport – long check-in lines and even longer security checks. There was some knock-on delay – eventually around 90 minutes. We boarded at 13:09 – I posted this picture of the unusual artwork on the tail while standing in line.
All the while myself (and Google Translate) was in discussion with my Airbnb host around estimated check-in times.
Some were getting worried about flights out of Buenos Aires – despite Hurtigruten strongly advising passengers to NOT book flights out of Buenos Aires on the (even the evening) of disembarkation.
The flight back was uneventful – same stunning Tierra del Fuego views as we departed.
Following baggage claim it really felt to me as if this was the watershed moment where the Hurtigruten part of my trip ended. It was, literally, as from here I would find a Taxi to my Airbnb. I was joined by one or two familiar faces Taxi EZE stand – or was that the February trip?
Most of the other passengers who booked a package (including airport transfer and an overnight stay) were jostling to confirm which bus they were allocated to and making their way to said bus. Suddenly we weren’t part of a group anymore – they could have been any random tour group getting on their bus.
I was quite tired by the time I eventually checked into the studio apartment that would be my home for the next few days. Promptly deposited the baggage and went out exploring, looking for a conveniece store to purchase supplies – luckily I found one about three blocks up the same road.
Having purchased some (not necessarily healthy) basics, I settled in for the night.
Some time tomorrow I have to find a “SUBE” Public Transport Card. The plan is return to Recoleta to purchase a rosary at the church (as I promised myself I would during the pre-trip tour). The National Arts Museum is not far from there.. two items checked off the “Amazing Race – Buenos Aires” checklist.
Day after tomorrow – Colonia de Sacremento daytrip – ticket secure in my documents folder.
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