opushomes Thanks for elaborating - it was helpful and I am glad you took the time to expain. I fear that my Spanish will be a problem-- I was in Bolivia and find that the accent and words were easier to understand than in Mexico- but even if I can make myself understood- listening to a response from a native speaker at full tilt is nearly impossible. I hope the words I remember for slow down will work.

I was getting the impression from other posts that the road to Cafayate sounded similar to the soutwest US which we have visited several times- but have enjoyed.

We only have 2 weeks as well and have never been to Argentina and since we are going in July ( last minute good airfare) and do not want to ski, we chose the Salta region with the hopes that the weather would be best- thinking that it may not be the most unique landscape but we hope to return to Argentina some winter or fall and travel south to Patagonia and Tiera del Fuego and Bariloche.

I think we will stay at lesser hotels-- to avoid disappointment I have found that the managment of expectations is crucial to a good time! and thanks for the insect tip about Colonia-

If you can recommend anything else- I'd appreciate it.