Last minute (well kind of) questions for BA Trip
May 6th, 2008, 07:12 PM
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Last minute (well kind of) questions for BA Trip
Well, it’s down to the last week and half before my 10-day trip to Buenos Aires (!) and I have some last minute questions for the Argentina crew. Well, not exactly <i>last</i> minute, but you know what I mean.
I’ve spent countless hours combing through past threads on this site and other sites, and I have some specific things I need to ask about that couldn’t find the answers to. My mind is overtaxed, so apologies if my questions are kinda strange.
I’ve addressed a few questions to <b>Scarlett</b>, so I hope she sees this thread. But <i>anyone</i> who has the answers, please chime in. So many of you have given great tips that I've used in the planning of this trip, and I truly appreciate all the help you've given.
1. CHOCOLATE: What is the best place to buy chocolate in BA? Does Argentina have its own special type of chocolate, or will the chocolate that I buy in BA most likely come from somewhere else? If not chocolate, then does anyone know of any type of Argentine candy that would make a good gift?
2. GOING OUT AT NIGHT SOLO: I have no problem dining alone. But if I want to go out to a live music venue will I be ok as a woman alone? Or is this not acceptable? (I’m not talking about safety, so much as people staring at me is if I’m some kind of freak show for going out alone).
3. TANGO LESSONS: Since I’m turning 40, will I appear to be too old to take tango lessons and then go dancing? Let me clarify: from the reading I’m doing, it seems like it’s mostly younger women in their 20’s who take part in the tango scene. Is this true?
<b>Questions for SCARLETT:</b>
4. TANGO LESSON ATTIRE: If I decide I’m not too old to tango, what are women supposed to wear to the tango lesson? Are you supposed to show up in high heels and a dress, or is it more casual?
5. COAT: I’ve been reading all about the climate and what to pack – but most people seem to write about March or June. Since I’ll be in BA the last two weeks of May and it will be autumn there – do I need to bring a warm coat? What type of coats/jackets are the women wearing in BA during the day and what type when they go out at night? (Dress coats, down coats, wool coats, or little jackets?). Maybe after I hit Prune, I’ll just buy go buy jacket too….
6. BOOTS - I was going to bring boots with me (black Merrells). Are women wearing boots in BA, or is it still too warm there for that? Do women down there wear Uggs? I might be forced to buy shoes in BA too. Sigh.
Thanks so much! - M
I’ve spent countless hours combing through past threads on this site and other sites, and I have some specific things I need to ask about that couldn’t find the answers to. My mind is overtaxed, so apologies if my questions are kinda strange.
I’ve addressed a few questions to <b>Scarlett</b>, so I hope she sees this thread. But <i>anyone</i> who has the answers, please chime in. So many of you have given great tips that I've used in the planning of this trip, and I truly appreciate all the help you've given.
1. CHOCOLATE: What is the best place to buy chocolate in BA? Does Argentina have its own special type of chocolate, or will the chocolate that I buy in BA most likely come from somewhere else? If not chocolate, then does anyone know of any type of Argentine candy that would make a good gift?
2. GOING OUT AT NIGHT SOLO: I have no problem dining alone. But if I want to go out to a live music venue will I be ok as a woman alone? Or is this not acceptable? (I’m not talking about safety, so much as people staring at me is if I’m some kind of freak show for going out alone).
3. TANGO LESSONS: Since I’m turning 40, will I appear to be too old to take tango lessons and then go dancing? Let me clarify: from the reading I’m doing, it seems like it’s mostly younger women in their 20’s who take part in the tango scene. Is this true?
<b>Questions for SCARLETT:</b>
4. TANGO LESSON ATTIRE: If I decide I’m not too old to tango, what are women supposed to wear to the tango lesson? Are you supposed to show up in high heels and a dress, or is it more casual?
5. COAT: I’ve been reading all about the climate and what to pack – but most people seem to write about March or June. Since I’ll be in BA the last two weeks of May and it will be autumn there – do I need to bring a warm coat? What type of coats/jackets are the women wearing in BA during the day and what type when they go out at night? (Dress coats, down coats, wool coats, or little jackets?). Maybe after I hit Prune, I’ll just buy go buy jacket too….
6. BOOTS - I was going to bring boots with me (black Merrells). Are women wearing boots in BA, or is it still too warm there for that? Do women down there wear Uggs? I might be forced to buy shoes in BA too. Sigh.
Thanks so much! - M
May 7th, 2008, 05:15 AM
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Don't despair, M, I'm pretty sure Scarlett will be here soon.
Some answers:
1) Chocolate "Bariloche" or "dulce de leche" or "Alfajores Havanna". Probably the "alfajores" would be the most practical choice. You can buy them at the airport, when you leave.
2) Should be OK. I have read A LOT on the subject in the forums.
3) Should be perfectly OK. I'll try to find for you the trip report of a couple of ladies who hired some guy to teach them and take them to dance to a "milonga". It will be OK to e-mail her with questions.
Since questions 4 through 6 are for Scarlett, I'll abstain. LOL!!!
Have a great time in our country.
Some answers:
1) Chocolate "Bariloche" or "dulce de leche" or "Alfajores Havanna". Probably the "alfajores" would be the most practical choice. You can buy them at the airport, when you leave.
2) Should be OK. I have read A LOT on the subject in the forums.
3) Should be perfectly OK. I'll try to find for you the trip report of a couple of ladies who hired some guy to teach them and take them to dance to a "milonga". It will be OK to e-mail her with questions.
Since questions 4 through 6 are for Scarlett, I'll abstain. LOL!!!
Have a great time in our country.
May 7th, 2008, 05:51 AM
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Oh AVRooster is being modest, he could answer all these questions perfectly lol...
Thank you to my friend cmc, for alerting me to this and who will have to post here too..
Hi magellan..
A couple of lady Fodorites have just been here and will have answers for you too..Kodi & cmcfong, are 2 that I know of..
Did someone say CHOCOLATE??
Most of the chocolate here seems to be from here.
You can buy some imported stuff at the big markets, Hershey bars have appeared in my Disco market but I usually just make do with anything that appeals to me.
There are shops where they make Pretty chocolates..
I have no names off the top of my head, it is something done on the spur of the moment or in restaurants at dessert time..you know how it is, you are minding your own business and suddenly, you must have chocolate so go for the closest at hand..
Alfajores are good, very good and I agree, buy them in the Duty Free shop at the airport when you leave.
They make them in the shape of a little cone..in the stores, these are very good as well as the cone shaped chocolate covered coconut thingees that I just get whenever I see one and want it.
Once you are here, you will see what I mean..it is everywhere lol.
People stare here.
They are not being rude or offensive but they like to look at each other and will stare regardless how you are dressed and how good you look.
Be Prepared and ignore it
Ladies eat out here alone all the time, all meals. They shop, sit in parks, eat in restaurants or cafes and all seem completely comfortable.
No one seems bothered and I do know that the waiters here are the best..they are solicitous and gentlemanly and you will feel well taken care of.
You can go to dinner a tiny bit earlier than usual and have a not so jammed restaurant and maybe feel more comfortable.
I can give you some names of places that are especially comfortable if you like.
Music should be the same, I cannot say for sure, I rarely get out alone lol
Tango-
40 is absolutely not too old for Tango lessons!!
As long as you can stand up on your own and move your feet, you can do it.
My friends wear casual easy moving clothes..skirts that are a bit fuller, fitted tops...you should take your lesson in heels though, not flats.
I know ladies who have worn very fitted pants to lessons..(you can show up in flats and carry the heels for dancing)
We have friends who range from early 30s to 60's who dance every night..it is addictive and it is not at all age specific ..when you go to a milonga you will see the most wonderful dancers, couples in their late 70s...it is amazing and we are convinced it extends life .
These past days have been ranging from chilly to warm-ish.
I wear a suede coat..light but good to keep out wind..or a sweater over a sweater..a light quilted jacket (Burberry type) is good and popular here.
Layers are good..it is in the high 60s now and chilly at night, mid to low 50s .. sun shine every day
The wind can get you though, even when it is sunny you can get chilled..bring sweaters for layering, a light coat or jacket.
Shop if you need to..or even if you don't
Yes, women have been wearing boots.
No Ugg sightings so far.
They tend to prefer high-ish heels and pointed toes, also Riding boot style boots ...
Let me know if this is sufficient, ask away if you have more questions..I love it here and enjoy talking about it.
Scarlett
Thank you to my friend cmc, for alerting me to this and who will have to post here too..
Hi magellan..
A couple of lady Fodorites have just been here and will have answers for you too..Kodi & cmcfong, are 2 that I know of..
Did someone say CHOCOLATE??
Most of the chocolate here seems to be from here.
You can buy some imported stuff at the big markets, Hershey bars have appeared in my Disco market but I usually just make do with anything that appeals to me.
There are shops where they make Pretty chocolates..
I have no names off the top of my head, it is something done on the spur of the moment or in restaurants at dessert time..you know how it is, you are minding your own business and suddenly, you must have chocolate so go for the closest at hand..
Alfajores are good, very good and I agree, buy them in the Duty Free shop at the airport when you leave.
They make them in the shape of a little cone..in the stores, these are very good as well as the cone shaped chocolate covered coconut thingees that I just get whenever I see one and want it.
Once you are here, you will see what I mean..it is everywhere lol.
People stare here.
They are not being rude or offensive but they like to look at each other and will stare regardless how you are dressed and how good you look.
Be Prepared and ignore it
Ladies eat out here alone all the time, all meals. They shop, sit in parks, eat in restaurants or cafes and all seem completely comfortable.
No one seems bothered and I do know that the waiters here are the best..they are solicitous and gentlemanly and you will feel well taken care of.
You can go to dinner a tiny bit earlier than usual and have a not so jammed restaurant and maybe feel more comfortable.
I can give you some names of places that are especially comfortable if you like.
Music should be the same, I cannot say for sure, I rarely get out alone lol
Tango-
40 is absolutely not too old for Tango lessons!!
As long as you can stand up on your own and move your feet, you can do it.
My friends wear casual easy moving clothes..skirts that are a bit fuller, fitted tops...you should take your lesson in heels though, not flats.
I know ladies who have worn very fitted pants to lessons..(you can show up in flats and carry the heels for dancing)
We have friends who range from early 30s to 60's who dance every night..it is addictive and it is not at all age specific ..when you go to a milonga you will see the most wonderful dancers, couples in their late 70s...it is amazing and we are convinced it extends life .
These past days have been ranging from chilly to warm-ish.
I wear a suede coat..light but good to keep out wind..or a sweater over a sweater..a light quilted jacket (Burberry type) is good and popular here.
Layers are good..it is in the high 60s now and chilly at night, mid to low 50s .. sun shine every day
The wind can get you though, even when it is sunny you can get chilled..bring sweaters for layering, a light coat or jacket.
Shop if you need to..or even if you don't
Yes, women have been wearing boots.
No Ugg sightings so far.
They tend to prefer high-ish heels and pointed toes, also Riding boot style boots ...
Let me know if this is sufficient, ask away if you have more questions..I love it here and enjoy talking about it.
Scarlett
May 7th, 2008, 11:47 AM
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The experts have already given you great counsel. I can only add that you will find wonderful leather boots in Argentina. Do not take Uggs.
I bought chocolate in Bariloche and it was good; but, not fabulous. The sweet treat I will never forget was the ice creams. OMIGOODNESS.
You are going to love Argentina and you will have a grand adventure with your tango lessons.
Buen viaje!
I bought chocolate in Bariloche and it was good; but, not fabulous. The sweet treat I will never forget was the ice creams. OMIGOODNESS.
You are going to love Argentina and you will have a grand adventure with your tango lessons.
Buen viaje!
May 7th, 2008, 01:03 PM
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Well, since I was over 50 when I danced tango in Buenos Aires you can't be too old at 40.
Through Tanguera tours http://www.tangueratours.com/
I hired tango dance escort, Juan Pablo Barbutti,and we went out twice. I had taken a few lessons here in the states but learned a lot from him. while I wasn't impressed with the customer service I received from the young woman who runs Tanguera Tours, Juan Pablo was a perfect gentleman, always on time, I felt safe, and he was a very good dancer. If you could hire him through her I would recommend it. Hope this helps.
I also bought tango shoes when in BA for about 60 or 70 dollars and was very pleased. I wore dresses both nights.
Through Tanguera tours http://www.tangueratours.com/
I hired tango dance escort, Juan Pablo Barbutti,and we went out twice. I had taken a few lessons here in the states but learned a lot from him. while I wasn't impressed with the customer service I received from the young woman who runs Tanguera Tours, Juan Pablo was a perfect gentleman, always on time, I felt safe, and he was a very good dancer. If you could hire him through her I would recommend it. Hope this helps.
I also bought tango shoes when in BA for about 60 or 70 dollars and was very pleased. I wore dresses both nights.
May 7th, 2008, 02:20 PM
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You don't have to hire a "taxi" dancer though, you can just go to the milonga and sit in front... there are always single gentlemen who like to dance..they are there every night in many cases..
When we went to El Beso, there was a man that was so so old lol and he danced like a dream! All the young girls hoped he would ask them..
If you take lessons, your teacher can give you plenty of tips too..not sure if you will want to dance right away .. just going to the milongas and watching is great fun..
When we went to El Beso, there was a man that was so so old lol and he danced like a dream! All the young girls hoped he would ask them..
If you take lessons, your teacher can give you plenty of tips too..not sure if you will want to dance right away .. just going to the milongas and watching is great fun..
May 7th, 2008, 02:31 PM
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Wow! Thanks for the great responses!
<b>For avrooster:</b> Thanks for your answers to 1-3. For #1 - I'm a bit confused....When you say "Bariloche" for chocolate, do you mean that there is a <i>store</i> named Bariloche in BA where I can buy chocolate, or do you mean Bariloche is a <i>kind</i> of chocolate....or do you mean I'd have to travel <i>to Bariloche</i> to buy chocolate? LOL!
<b>For Scarlett:</b> A few questions/comments...
*When you talk about chocolate that you buy at your "Disco market," do you mean there's an actual grocery store/chain called "Disco"...or is Disco just a pet name you use for it because they play disco music in a the store (???). (I could just see myself wandering around BA asking where the Disco Mart is...only it’s not real!) – LOL (Since both you and avrooster suggested alfajores, I’ll probably get some of those as well, but I'm oh-so-curious about this mysterious Disco mart).
*When you said, “People stare here. They are not being rude or offensive but they like to look at each other and will stare regardless how you are dressed and how good you look. Be Prepared and ignore.” By <i>ignore</i> do you mean that you just look away as if you don’t see them staring, or do you just smile disarmingly? Here in San Francisco, I tend to smile, but not sure if that will fly there in BA
*Regarding the coat and boots: good to know! Thanks so much! This was a major source of anxiety (oddly), but mostly because I don’t want to drag around a suitcase full of useless coats and shoes. My current coat should be fine, and since my black Merrell boots are the “riding” type, I’ll bring those as well. Since both you and cmcfong (thanks!) noted the absence of Uggs, I won’t bring those. I was just planning on also bringing my Privos (flat Camper like shoes) and my brown Pumas.
<b> Thanks to momssk and avrooster for the tango suggestion</b> I actually just printed out the information for Tanguera - that's the one I had planned on going with. I’m glad to hear that someone else has used it. I’ll get a dress and heels once I’m down there in BA, after I see what others are wearing.
Thanks to all of you for the great responses from all of you about dining solo and going out and the tango. I feel much better.
<b>Last question….for now</b> Have any of you ever attended this big <b>annual Jazz festival</b> in BA that I’m hearing about? It seems to coincide exactly with the dates of my trip. Curious about if it’s a good time or not...
Thanks! - M
<b>For avrooster:</b> Thanks for your answers to 1-3. For #1 - I'm a bit confused....When you say "Bariloche" for chocolate, do you mean that there is a <i>store</i> named Bariloche in BA where I can buy chocolate, or do you mean Bariloche is a <i>kind</i> of chocolate....or do you mean I'd have to travel <i>to Bariloche</i> to buy chocolate? LOL!
<b>For Scarlett:</b> A few questions/comments...
*When you talk about chocolate that you buy at your "Disco market," do you mean there's an actual grocery store/chain called "Disco"...or is Disco just a pet name you use for it because they play disco music in a the store (???). (I could just see myself wandering around BA asking where the Disco Mart is...only it’s not real!) – LOL (Since both you and avrooster suggested alfajores, I’ll probably get some of those as well, but I'm oh-so-curious about this mysterious Disco mart).
*When you said, “People stare here. They are not being rude or offensive but they like to look at each other and will stare regardless how you are dressed and how good you look. Be Prepared and ignore.” By <i>ignore</i> do you mean that you just look away as if you don’t see them staring, or do you just smile disarmingly? Here in San Francisco, I tend to smile, but not sure if that will fly there in BA
*Regarding the coat and boots: good to know! Thanks so much! This was a major source of anxiety (oddly), but mostly because I don’t want to drag around a suitcase full of useless coats and shoes. My current coat should be fine, and since my black Merrell boots are the “riding” type, I’ll bring those as well. Since both you and cmcfong (thanks!) noted the absence of Uggs, I won’t bring those. I was just planning on also bringing my Privos (flat Camper like shoes) and my brown Pumas.
<b> Thanks to momssk and avrooster for the tango suggestion</b> I actually just printed out the information for Tanguera - that's the one I had planned on going with. I’m glad to hear that someone else has used it. I’ll get a dress and heels once I’m down there in BA, after I see what others are wearing.
Thanks to all of you for the great responses from all of you about dining solo and going out and the tango. I feel much better.
<b>Last question….for now</b> Have any of you ever attended this big <b>annual Jazz festival</b> in BA that I’m hearing about? It seems to coincide exactly with the dates of my trip. Curious about if it’s a good time or not...
Thanks! - M
May 7th, 2008, 02:49 PM
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Hi Magellan-
Have a fantastic time! I was really happy to come across the Disco supermarket chain on our first day there! The cashier asked me for my "awards card" and I proudly told her "Soy turista" and she nodded...
While I was there a few weeks back I noticed women were eager to bust out their boots even though I was still sporting sandals (I'm a total wimp when it comes to being cold too) I'm sure you'll see many more boots while you're there!
Enjoy!
Christine
Have a fantastic time! I was really happy to come across the Disco supermarket chain on our first day there! The cashier asked me for my "awards card" and I proudly told her "Soy turista" and she nodded...
While I was there a few weeks back I noticed women were eager to bust out their boots even though I was still sporting sandals (I'm a total wimp when it comes to being cold too) I'm sure you'll see many more boots while you're there!
Enjoy!
Christine
May 7th, 2008, 04:19 PM
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One more question for Scarlett: Are women wearing corduroy pants down there? (The other sites say most Buenos Aires women don't wear jeans unless they're really nice jeans. They say that the women wear "slacks." I don't think I even own any slacks.)
May 7th, 2008, 06:01 PM
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corduroys, yes
Actually, I wore a black sweater with jeans ( skinny leg) and a Chanel jacket today..it worked..
But corduroys are fine for the weather..and of course, black always works at night
I think Disco does play some disco now and then..you will notice that wherever you go here, the music is usually pretty pretty good!
The privos and pumas will be good too... no matter where you live, you will still walk more here than you do at home ..
I usually smile back but there are days when you are just not in the mood and I just stare back or look through them..you will see. ( the Yankee insists on telling me they think I am a movie star LOL) but the people here do like to look at each other.
The men too but somehow that isn't so bad
Actually, I wore a black sweater with jeans ( skinny leg) and a Chanel jacket today..it worked..
But corduroys are fine for the weather..and of course, black always works at night
I think Disco does play some disco now and then..you will notice that wherever you go here, the music is usually pretty pretty good!
The privos and pumas will be good too... no matter where you live, you will still walk more here than you do at home ..
I usually smile back but there are days when you are just not in the mood and I just stare back or look through them..you will see. ( the Yankee insists on telling me they think I am a movie star LOL) but the people here do like to look at each other.
The men too but somehow that isn't so bad
May 7th, 2008, 07:03 PM
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Cool - Thanks so much, Scarlett! You've been mighty helpful. I had my suitcase open, ready to be packed, just waiting for your answers - LOL. The cords and jeans are in! I'm having to pack now because no time later with my work schedule, so I really really appreciate your responses.
I noticed the staring thing in Rome, so I'm wondering if it'll be similar. Anyway, let's hope I feel like a movie star too hahaahaha!
I noticed the staring thing in Rome, so I'm wondering if it'll be similar. Anyway, let's hope I feel like a movie star too hahaahaha!
May 10th, 2008, 07:36 AM
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Hi - I'm searching threads for the answers to my taxi questions, so I've also asked this question on the old "What Taxi Co in BA" thread. I'm hoping folks will see at least one of these threads. Here's the question:
**Most of the threads that I see say that you can "have your hotel" call a radio taxi for you once you're in town in BA. However, I'll be staying in an apartment that has no concierge or front desk, and I won't have a cell phone when I go out.
Assuming that I don't want to hail a cab on the street alone (for safety reasons), my question is this: <b>Is it ok to go into a business/restaurant and ask them to call a radio cab for you?</b>
Thank you!
**Most of the threads that I see say that you can "have your hotel" call a radio taxi for you once you're in town in BA. However, I'll be staying in an apartment that has no concierge or front desk, and I won't have a cell phone when I go out.
Assuming that I don't want to hail a cab on the street alone (for safety reasons), my question is this: <b>Is it ok to go into a business/restaurant and ask them to call a radio cab for you?</b>
Thank you!
May 10th, 2008, 08:29 AM
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Note: This question was answered by Scarlett in the "What Taxi Co in BA" Thread:
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=35093657
Thanks, Scarlett!
http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=35093657
Thanks, Scarlett!
May 10th, 2008, 10:13 AM
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Hi, M!
I have written many posts about cabs, which can be found with a little research, both here and on TA.
First, I feel that for a solo female who comes to BA for the first time and does not know much Spanish, SAFETY is the first and foremost consideration.
About cabs, I believe you most certainly should NOT just hail them on the street.
Furthermore, if just hailed on the street, a radio cab is no safer than a regular cab. The radio cabs are safer when they have been CALLED, only because that way there is a record of who drove you, if there is a problem of any kind.
I must assume you know about NOT paying with a large bill (pesos 20 max). You should also have the address you are going to clearly printed, to show it to the driver. I suggest you tell him you are going to your hotel.
If the driver says there is something wrong with the car and does not take you exactly where you are going, it means he is going to try to perform some kind of trick, most likely some fake currency scam.
About your: "is it ok to go into a business/restaurant and ask them to call a radio cab for you?", the answer is yes, but you should offer to pay for the call (one or two pesos).
There are several good radio taxi companies in BA. The following is one of the better known. I called them and asked them what happens if an English speaker calls and they said they have several people qualified to take the call.
http://www.taxipremium.com/
Please understand that the odds of having a problem are pretty low, but I feel you should play it safe as far as possible.
Have a great time in our town, CALLING radio taxis (or remises).
I have written many posts about cabs, which can be found with a little research, both here and on TA.
First, I feel that for a solo female who comes to BA for the first time and does not know much Spanish, SAFETY is the first and foremost consideration.
About cabs, I believe you most certainly should NOT just hail them on the street.
Furthermore, if just hailed on the street, a radio cab is no safer than a regular cab. The radio cabs are safer when they have been CALLED, only because that way there is a record of who drove you, if there is a problem of any kind.
I must assume you know about NOT paying with a large bill (pesos 20 max). You should also have the address you are going to clearly printed, to show it to the driver. I suggest you tell him you are going to your hotel.
If the driver says there is something wrong with the car and does not take you exactly where you are going, it means he is going to try to perform some kind of trick, most likely some fake currency scam.
About your: "is it ok to go into a business/restaurant and ask them to call a radio cab for you?", the answer is yes, but you should offer to pay for the call (one or two pesos).
There are several good radio taxi companies in BA. The following is one of the better known. I called them and asked them what happens if an English speaker calls and they said they have several people qualified to take the call.
http://www.taxipremium.com/
Please understand that the odds of having a problem are pretty low, but I feel you should play it safe as far as possible.
Have a great time in our town, CALLING radio taxis (or remises).
May 10th, 2008, 11:35 AM
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Since I do live right in town, and I am a female and I do hail taxis by myself all the time, I can only say that I have never had a problem, nor have any of my friends who visit here or live here.
After you are here for a few days, you will get a feel for the city and be able to decide this for yourself.
*Tip*
Write down what street and cross-street or the address of where you want to go on a slip of paper..it makes it much easier with the Spanish/English confusion that will no doubt occur.
<i>( I did this not long ago and the taxi driver started driving along, helping me with my pronunciation lol I think he was a teacher in his other job )
</i>
After you are here for a few days, you will get a feel for the city and be able to decide this for yourself.
*Tip*
Write down what street and cross-street or the address of where you want to go on a slip of paper..it makes it much easier with the Spanish/English confusion that will no doubt occur.
<i>( I did this not long ago and the taxi driver started driving along, helping me with my pronunciation lol I think he was a teacher in his other job )
</i>
