Iguazu

Our journey to iguazu was an adventure in itself. The day before our flight we received an email from the airline informing us in bold print and capitals that WE MUST CHECK IN ONLINE TO AVOID ADDITIONAL CHARGES. So we dutifully checked in and chose our seat numbers 29B and 29C. When it came to boarding our plane the next day we were somewhat confused to discover there was no row B. The air steward noticed our confusion and ushered us to sit anywhere we wanted. We were lucky that we had boarded early as we then watched hoards of confused people looking for missing row B whilst others who were expecting to sit with their family or in a specific seat were now annoyed that their reserved seats had been taken by this now free seating system. We were pleased that we had not paid for the extra legroom seats that we often book. At one point it looked as if there were not enough seats for everyone as we had of course lost an entire row but after much reorganizing by the stewards, everyone was seated and we were on our way. 

 On arrival at Iguazu airport we wondered if they'd dropped us off beneath the falls as torrential rain pelted down on us as we climbed down the steps onto the tarmac. 

 We arrived at our pre booked hostel and having stayed in hostels of varying standards around the world, we can honestly say that this was the worst. We stayed for around 15 minutes before deciding to take to the streets to find something better. In no time, we managed to negotiate a self contained chalet style room which was clean, had an ensuite bathroom, fresh towels and air con, we were in heaven! 

 Arriving at the Argentinian falls slightly later than planned the next day, I (Eva), decided to ignore that advice of the park rangers to start with the lower paths so instead we trekked up to the devil throats path instead. Once there I discovered a sudden terror of crossing the paths with large stretches of gushing water beneath me. John held my hand tightly whilst tugging me encouragingly to progress. But alas I was frozen with fear so retreated sadly to wait for John to see the highest point falls alone. By lunchtime we had walked through much of the humid parkland and seen beautiful butterflies and birdlife but sadly for me, no waterfalls as yet. Fortunately the paths for the lower routes were less scary and more manageable for me and I was finally able to see the amazingly beautiful waterfalls. 

 The following day we took the public bus to the Brazilian side. This involves getting off and on the bus twice each way to do Argentnian and Brazillian immigration. We'd heard that if you take too long the bus may not wait for you and go on without you. This appeared to happen to a Canadian couple who we were chatting to in the bus queue but who didn't make it back to the bus in time after the first immigration stop. We never did see them again. 

 There is far less to see and less trekking on the Brazilian side which makes it less stressful or less interesting depending on your view. Personally I loved the panoramic view and preferred the more chilled out Brazilian side although for anyone thinking of visiting the falls, it is definitely worth seeing them from both sides.