Submitted by Mariapia Scotto Di Carlo on the 2020 winter session study abroad program in Argentina sponsored by the Department of Languages, Literatures & Cultures…
This week, I am writing a reflection about when we visited Las Pampas for the day in Argentina! We, in my opinion, had the most relaxing day on the whole program so far while at Las Pampas because it was very relaxed as we weren’t running around all day making sure we were on schedule; rather, we were relaxed and spent the whole day at Estancia Villa María, completely immersed in the Argentine culture. The three biggest culture shocks that I was amazed at being able to witness were eating authentic asada, learning how to ride a horse, and seeing some traditional dances like Zamba. The asada was an incredible experience because so many different forms of the best meat was cooking in front of us on giant grills and served to us “asada style”. It was so different from anywhere I have ever eaten, let alone cooked meat in the United States. The horses we learned how to ride connected to the gaucho (cowboy culture) in Argentina. In addition, we were able to see the gauchos race and learned of their traditions, like how if two guachos wanted to marry the same woman, they would have to “catch” the wedding ring through a soccer looking goal while riding a fast horse. Whoever caught the ring was allowed to marry the woman. Finally, we were able to see traditional dances, such as Zamba, be performed. It was so interesting to me as I love dancing and we were able to see two dancers in their dress and attire that held so much culture and tradition move as one to the beat of a drum, or while moving around with a handkerchief. The whole day, while relaxed, was amazing and I couldn’t have asked for a better time!