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The beach in Argentina that is named after Bristol
There were wild celebrations in Bristol following Argentina’s victory in the World Cup in Qatar.
But these celebrations were in a Bristol 7,000 miles away where one of the country’s most popular beaches is named after our city.
Playa Bristol is located in Mar del Plata, a few hours drive south from Buenos Aires.
It is this proximity to the Argentinian capital that has made the city known as Mardel “the classic Argentine beach destination” according to the Lonely Planet.
Playa Bristol is one of a string of beaches facing the South Atlantic shoreline and was once one of the resort’s most exclusive destinations.
So why is a beach in Mar del Plata named after Bristol? It is in fact named after the Bristol Hotel – just one of many Hotel Bristols across the world, with several theories as to why these are named.
Bristol photographer Martin Parr visited Mar del Plata in 2014, sharing photos of his visit on his website.
“The central beach is called Bristol and I take great pride in telling people that I actually live in the original Bristol,” he wrote.
“The beach has its own rhythm. Early in the day, starting around 8 to 9am, the regular and generally older beach goers arrive to sunbathe, swim and meet old friends: people return to the same spot year in, year out.
“You will never see a better collection of sun hats, one-piece costumes and beach umbrellas in one location.”
The Martin Parr Foundation in the Paintworks sells a Mar del Plata jigsaw puzzle for £60 – image: Martin Parr Foundation
Main photo: Wikimedia Commons
Read next:
- Buenasado: ‘The taste of Argentina in Bristol’ – restaurant review
- Tower block could replace Bristol’s first ever multi-storey car park
- This is the largest ship to ever visit Bristol
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