by Delfina from Bariloche asks Santa what he is called in Spanish, learns about Patagonia and Nahuel Huapi Lake, and hears about Bariloche’s Swiss-Alpine architecture and chocolate heritage
Dear Santa, my name is Delfina and I am nine years old. I live in Bariloche, Argentina, where my abuela says our whole town looks like it was picked up from Switzerland and set down gently beside our own lake instead.
Dear Delfina, I have admired that exact resemblance myself while flying over, and your abuela’s description is entirely accurate.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, what is Santa called in Spanish? My cousin from England asked me, and I wanted to check my answer with you directly.
I am called Papá Noel in Spanish, Delfina, though some families also honor Los Reyes Magos, the Three Kings, as important gift-bringers too. Your answer to your cousin would be entirely correct.
My second question is about our lake. My teacher says Nahuel Huapi Lake is one of the largest in all of Patagonia. Is that true?
It is, Delfina. Nahuel Huapi Lake is one of the largest and most beautiful lakes in Patagonia, surrounded by dramatic mountains. Flying over its clear, frozen edges each Christmas Eve is a genuinely stunning part of my Argentine route.
My third question is about chocolate. My teacher says Bariloche is famous across Argentina for its chocolate-making. Is that true?
It is true, Delfina. Bariloche became renowned for chocolate-making, a tradition brought by European immigrants who settled in the region, now one of the most celebrated chocolate destinations in all of South America. I always make sure to sample a bit whenever I am lucky enough to visit.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Delfina Rodríguez
Bariloche, Argentina
P.S. Do you bring Bariloche chocolate back to the North Pole?
As often as I can manage, Delfina. It is a workshop favorite.
