May 2007
A quick recap for those just tuning in:

A crash in the Argentine economy (2001 “The Crisis“) created political instability for awhile; both of these situations were addressed by the election of Kirschner to the Presidency of Argentina. 

Buying in Bariloche
To get hard currency into the treasury a lot of the real estate in the San Martin to Bariloche to El Bolson area was sold to foreigners. Property was priced in dollars (that should have been a hint). Now that the “Crisis” is over (2004), Argentina wants their real estate back. They have stopped granting Titles to Americans. The law now requires a minimum of 2 years permanent residency (which follows 2-3 years of temporary residency) to apply for Title (to a foreigner). (But) As a matter of fact they are denying title to Americans no matter what their status. The Real Estate agencies still say “No Problem - you can buy what-ever you want.” If you buy a house or even a lot, you will lose all or most of your money.* If your retirement plans are formulated around buying a house immediately think Chile; which has simple, legal, access to a registered Title. Americans can buy real estate with a Passport and a Chilean government issued "Rut" number. Scenery that would cost millions of dollars in Argentina is available in Chile for a lot less. 

However…for me and many others, Bariloche Argentina is THE PLACE I want to live. I will pay rent happily waiting (& hoping) someday things will change. A home is more than a house and a city is more than a collection of buildings and streets. There is an 'ambiance' to Bariloche that goes past the hospitality and the snazzy architecture. There is an energy here at the meeting place of land and Lago. The mountains surrounding the landward side of town are barren, stark and impressive. The mountains along the Lake and on the other side are as wild as any you will ever see. The backdrop is stunning with streets appearing to end in the lake. This is the Heart of Argentina. As an American, you compromise your plans, follow their rules, and get to live in a very special place. 

To me it is worth it.

Singles - Particularly Single Women:
No one wants to be socially isolated. For many potential expats the fear of being cut off in a country where you don’t speak the language keeps people home. It is difficult to explain why this fear is so wrong - so ironic. When you buy a new car, suddenly you notice every passing car of the same make or model. This same phenomena happens with travelers and expats. You notice other foreigners. Hearing someone speak English can start a conversation. The awkwardness of first meetings is pushed away by tribal recognition. The fact is, you will meet more (and more interesting) Americans in Bariloche than you will in your life routine, in the States. The beauty and exciting activities like chairlift rides to mountain tops (Cerros Campanerio and Otto, and the magnificent Cerro Bella Vista on Isla Victoria) create a naturally romantic atmosphere. Surrounded by people having a good time is ideal for forming friendships and romance. People used to take a cruise for a chance at romance - Bariloche provides the same atmosphere in a hundred ways and places. 

The institution of “tea” an early evening (sort of) dinner party gathering is very common, in Argentina. The beauty of “tea” is the definite time frame. If you are bored or see that others are, you simply leave at the designated time. If something is going on, conspiring to spend more time together creates nice possibilities. Argentines love to mix and match their social and professional contacts at tea. Most Argentines are friends-to-romance, remembering the single status of friends, when they invite friends.

San Carlos de Bariloche is the future home of many Americans. Escapees and retirees are settling into long term rentals all around the Lakes District. With the crime, religious conflicts leading to anti-immigrant backlash in Europe, many expats from the States and European countries are moving towards the Lakes District. Bariloche, already a sophisticated little city, becomes a richer place for the newcomers. The new legal limitations on owning property are healthy attempts to control and regulate the population growth, and diversity. This is good for the long term welfare of the natural environment. Bariloche is surrounded by national park lands and needs strong protection. Americans will come, play by the new rules, to enjoy living in Bariloche, Argentina.

Douglas Harris is author of eBook: Eluding Capture:Escape to Bariloche, Argentina

* please note this applies to the Bariloche area; there are other regions of Argetnina without such restrictions on foreigners buying property

Eluding Capture: Escape to Bariloche, Argentina - This is not a guidebook. THIS IS AN ESCAPE BOOK. This book, describing our family’s move to South America, is a kind of “how to” book for people thinking about moving to San Carlos de Bariloche, Queen City of Patagonia, Capitol of The Argentine Lakes District.You’ll learn what you might want to try and what you might want to avoid as you plan your escape to this beautiful place. This eBook contains plenty of helpful information about the language and culture and way of life in Bariloche, about residency and health care – practical advice that may help you decide whether to stay where you are and give up your dreams of living in a safe and beautiful place. But most of all it is for all the people trying to get out of captivity, for those of you who are ready to find your Shangri-la, to inspire and cajole you into escaping to this place.