Final Argentina Items

It seems as though the info packet has done its job as there have been very few questions that have come up. Here are a few other things to keep in mind and some reminders from the packet. Please feel free to e-mail or respond to this blog with other questions
1) Money. It is not possible for us to tell you how much to send with your son. All meals are covered as well as the pro game. While there may be an "add-on" after arrive (if the group decides they want it), that would be very cheap ($20-$30). (Nothing is planned, but an opportunity to do a river boat tour or a tango night may arise.) So, players will need money for snacks and whatever personal spending they need. REMEMBER THAT THEY DO NEED $22 CASH FOR THE BUENOS AIRES AIRPORT FOR THEIR DEPARTURE TAX ON THE FINAL DAY)
If they are going to buy anything significant, they will be able to do so with credit or debit card (credit cards working best). Less need for actual cash.
There are ATMs as well as the ability to change money at the hotel.
The coaching staff/chaperones will be available to hold any large amount of cash anyone may bring. Drew Hoffman will address that at the parent's meeting and with the players.
2) Remember sun block and bug spray. Mosquitoes like Americans (but they are NOT bad mosquitoes (no worries about Yellow Fever or anything - form what I understand they have had 1 case of yellow fever in 1 monkey in Northern jungle part of Argentina.)
3) We are awaiting the warm-ups and travel bag from the state. Hoping to have them for you Monday. If not, then we will let you know what plan B is.
4) Water is safe down there. While we will be using bottle water, we are at a very modern hotel in a very modern city with very drinkable water. No issues using it for brushing teeth, etc. We will tell all not to eat from street vendors and the like (something I would do if we were traveling in the US as well!).
5) Phone calls. I strongly discourage any use of cell phones. They simply lend to situations where calls come in at unwanted times (from parents, friends, girlfriends, etc). If a player simply has to call home, then they can get phone cards easily down there. They will have some access to e-mail and that will be best way to stay in touch.You all have the emergency numbers that should be used - IN AN EMERGENCY ONLY. Thanks.
6) Remember to pack any liquids in check in luggage unless they meet carry on requirements: in a zip lock bag, etc)...
7) Hotel info can be seen on here (I think web link in info packet didn't work- at least for me):
http://www.epoquehotels.com/h.php/buenos-aires-hotels/boutique-hotel/h/nogaro/l/en/
8) Personal Items: I would not go beyond an IPOD for music. Playing cards, etc are all fine. Travel alarm or inexpensive watch could be good too.
9)The company we are using is excellent. They currently have the Kansas City Wizards and Real Salt Lake down here. They are the group that has hosted the Regional teams as well. After they leave - Maryland OODP comes in. I have asked them to send me the final itinerary as soon as it is final. We have had rough ones, but felt it best to wait till we have everything ironed out. We will have representatives/guides with us the entire time including staying at hotel with us.

I hope that now covers things and reiterates other important things. The trip will be great, so please don't worry. If your son forgets something - they will find it in Buenos Aires:) Just don't forget your soccer shoes!!

Any questions... feel free to contact us via this or e-mail.