El Calafate surprised me completely on this trip to Argentina

I went to Argentina with modest expectations and left completely won over, largely thanks to time spent in El Calafate. The city has a pace and character that travel guides undersell. Found a great spot for medialunas on day two and went back every day after that.

Patagonia was the big planned experience and delivered as expected. But it was world-class beef and wine that became the unexpected highlight — something I stumbled across rather than planned. 13 days was just right for getting below the surface without rushing.