I’m excited to be done with Argentina. I spent a little over two months there, and while I loved Argentina, I have mixed feelings about the people. I always thought that Americans were cold, but compared to Argentina we are not so bad. Uruguay was an easy-going country that reminded me of Venezuela with the light-skinned, attractive, and friendly people. Only in Uruguay have shopkeepers insisted I carry a balance instead of worrying about finding change.
I think I may have what is called post-infectious IBS. It happens after something like a parasite alters the lining of your gut (sometimes permanently), leading to symptoms like bloating, pain, and gas for an indefinite amount of time. From my internet research it seems to be somewhat common after travel to third-world countries. Or maybe it is small bowel bacterial overgrowth syndrome. I haven’t had a cup of coffee in two months and tomato sauce and many raw vegetables are off limits. If it’s a parasite then it’s a big parasite because sometimes it feels and sounds like something in moving around in there.
I’ve had ongoing stomach problems for three and a half months now, and while I think I’m getting better, it’s something I need to plan around and think about. At least it’s not affecting my face! This experience reminds me of when I had hives, which took over two months to resolve. One day at a time…
Next stop is Rio de Janeiro until Carnival. I decided to visit those three small countries after Brazil and make a go for every country in South America. Why not? If I can get to Veneuzuela then I’m confident I can make it.
I feel like I’m at the midpoint of my trip.
Punta del Este
