Obama’s Glorious Argentine Excursion

President Obama was criticized Tuesday for taking in a Cuban baseball game while Belgium was still reeling from a terrorist attack that killed more than 30 and wounded dozens. Turns out the sports break was just beginning.

Obama, his wife, children and mother in law — who are now in Argentina — Thursday embarked a two-thousand-mile round trip journey from Buenos Aires to the exquisite city of Bariloche to enjoy its many wonders.

It’s supposed to be official U.S. government travel, but what the heck. The day trip for Obama and family takes about four-and-a-half hours of Air Force One flying time at a cost of close to a million dollars, just for flying the plane. The other logistical expenses no doubt add millions more.

The White House announced that, while in the city, “the First Family will visit cultural landmarks,” which are code words for SIGHTSEEING. “The First Family will travel to Bariloche and Patagonia for a visit to one of the truly spectacular cultural sites within Argentina.” the White House said, as if nothing else were happening in the world.

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Will there be more assaults in Europe? Who knows? Have any of the European attackers been coordinated with terror cells in America that may be waiting to strike? No matter. For seven hours today between flights to and from Buenos Aires, the president is confirming for himself that, “It’s good to be the king.”

According to Frommer’s, the Obamas have chosen wisely: “With stunning natural scenery and fine cuisine, it’s a winter and summer playground for vacationing Argentines … With the rugged plains of the Patagonian Steppe to the east, the towering snowy peaks of the Andes to the west, and the glistening and grand Nahuel Huapi Lake in front, opportunities for adventure are abundant. Even if you’re not much of an adventurer, you’ll still find plenty of pleasant sightseeing tours, boat trips, boutiques, driving excursions, and fine dining to keep you busy.”

The trip in was fabulous, according to the pool report:

“AF1 touched down in Bariloche at 14:21 after a flight that offered great views of the snow-capped Andes and crystalline mountain lakes. The first family came out of the plane a short time later, all wearing hiking gear.”

After hiking, “We are told by the White House that POTUS, FLOTUS and Malia are going on a boat ride on a vessel named the Modesta Victoria.”

The Obamas are scheduled to fly back to Washington Thursday evening from Buenos Aires, relaxed and ready to deal with terrorists.