Being in Puerto Iguazu, on your own, for dissertation research can be very overwhelming. I find myself alone most of the time, in a nice hotel, repressed in my room; writing my dissertation and emailing people who will simply not answer.

I was afraid I wouldn’t really meet anyone, and it has kind of been the case. I haven’t come here as a traveller, but as a researcher, which makes it all that more secluding and daunting. I don’t have time to run around the falls and take pictures and make friends. I came here with a purpose and a mission, and that did not involve socialising. On top of that its even harder here because all the other guests are either families, recently engaged couples, or elderly groups. They are not really the kind to invite you to their table and have a chat. My only ‘friend’ would maybe…