Argentina! Exploring the vast South American country

Buenos Aires architecture. (Photo: Joseph L. Murphy)

A walk through a neighborhood in Buenos Aires, Rosario or Paragamino, Argentina, will almost always yield two things, the aroma of fantastic food and a smile from one of the locals. Earlier this month, I had the opportunity to cover the Global Farmer Network (GFN) meeting in Argentina, a reunion of over 60 farmers from around the world.

The farmers brought their perspectives on agriculture and open minds to discuss how to improve farming in their countries. We all reap the benefits of better farming and food systems when we visit the grocery store or farmer’s markets to buy fruits, vegetables and protein. I’m planning to share more about the GFN in a future dispatch, so for now, here are a few of my experiences while touring through Argentina.

Fresh empanadas. (Photo: Joseph L. Murphy)

A walk through a neighborhood in one of the larger Argentine cities yields the scent of freshly baked empanadas and the sound of tango music. The streets are alive with the hustle and bustle of locals and the occasional tourist like myself. Everywhere you look, you find something new to explore.

The cuisine of Argentina is a mix of old-world recipes and modern-day cooking. Most people I visit think the cuisine would resemble Latin American, but it is much more aligned with European cuisine. From the traditional asado to the savory empanadas, each dish is a unique experience. The flavors are bold, and the ingredients are fresh, making it a perfect place to experience South American cuisine.

The locals are friendly and welcoming, always eager to share their stories with visitors. Whether you’re in the capital or the countryside, you’ll find a friendly face. Argentinians are passionate about their country and its people, making it a unique place to explore and experience.

The music of Argentina is as diverse as its people, from traditional folk songs to modern-day tango. The music will get your feet tapping in a crowded cafe or a small village.

Argentina Agriculture

A farmer with Aapresid describes the conservation work the farmers implemented on their farms. (Photo: Joseph L. Murphy)

Farming in Argentina is more than just a job; it is a way of life. The farmers of Argentina have been tending to the land for generations, passing down their knowledge and experience from one generation to the next. They take great pride in their work; their legacy is hard work and dedication.

The land of Argentina is rich and fertile, perfect for farming. The soil is dark and nutrient-rich, providing an excellent foundation for crops. For decades farmers in Argentina have practiced no-till farming to prevent erosion and the loss of nutrients.

The farmers of Argentina are part of a close-knit community. They work together to ensure the land is productive and the crops are healthy. They share their knowledge and experience, helping each other to ensure their farms thrive.

Organic stubble from previous crops protects the soil from erosion while adding nutrients to the soil. (Photo: Joseph L. Murphy)

The farmers of Argentina are committed to preserving their way of life. They are dedicated to ensuring that the land remains productive and that their crops are of the highest quality. They are also committed to passing down their knowledge and experience to the next generation, ensuring their legacy lives on.

The Argentine No-Till Farmers Association (Aapresid) is a great example of farmers protecting their most valuable resources while growing food for a hungry population. Aapresid is a non-profit, non-governmental organization born out of a strong desire to protect farmers’ most valuable resource —the soil. The association is made up of a network of farmers who have adopted and promoted a new agricultural paradigm based on no-till practices.

The Aapresid network aims to increase productivity without the negative consequences associated with conventional tilling practices. They encourage the mutually beneficial exchange of knowledge, open their lands to other farmers, participate in trials, maintain strong international ties, and interact with public and private organizations to help achieve integrated development in the country.

Casa Rosada in Buenos Aires houses the president’s office and is the seat of the Argentine national government. (Photo: Joseph L. Murphy)

Argentina’s Economy

Although the Argentinian economy is booming, it is not without its challenges. The country is still dealing with high levels of poverty and inequality, and the government is working hard to address these issues. Some estimates place the number of Argentine citizens below the poverty line at 50 percent. The country is also dealing with high inflation, and there are signs that the government is working to bring it under control.

The country is seeing an influx of foreign investments, and the markets are responding positively. Argentinians are feeling more confident about their future. Argentina is seeing a surge in tourism as more and more people are drawn to its beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture.

I enjoyed every minute I spent in Argentina and recommend visiting the country if possible. You can’t go wrong between the beauty, food and people.