While the annual livestock show at La Rural, called simply the La Rural Exhibition, is a tradition that feels as old as the city, this year’s show is making people talk about something new: cloning. According to the Clarín, Argentina is one of only three countries with a large number of cloned cows and bulls; the other two nations are the United States and Canada. In the last two years, Argentina has cloned over two hundred cows and bulls, making it possible for livestock salesmen to guarantee their costumers extremely specific traits in their animals. The La Rural Exhibition is showcasing both the number of cloned animals in Argentina and the new database that contains all their information. This database will serve in years to come to monitor this growing but still experimental way of breeding prime cows for prime ribs.

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While skiing has always been a popular winter activity in Argentina, many Argentine families are discovering other ways to enjoy their winter vacations.According to InfoBAE, there is a 20 percent rise in rural tourism as well as a distinct rise in hot spring tourism.These destinations are becoming family destinations, great places to take children too young to ski.InfoBAE also reports that Argentines are seeking greater diversity in their winter travels, opting to visit expanding tourism areas like Salta to the north, where there are more and more estancias, vineyards, and quality hotels to enjoy.People are also taking road trips to locations around the province of Buenos Aires, enjoying the diversity that is within driving distance from the Capital.

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The Exposición Rural has taken place for over a century, and it is about to begin again July 24th at La Rural.The exposition includes experts from around the world who come to share their knowledge about cattle, fruit, farming equipment, and many other facets of farming and cattle culture.While the expo is for people in the business, it also welcomes tourists.According to the official website, more than a million visitors came to the expo last year.At the 122nd Expo there will be over 600 exhibitors as well as a variety of activities that visitors can enjoy such as cattle auctions, costume contests, and food tastings.New this year is a focus on genetic engineering, since many cattle today have qualities chosen by their breeders.Entrance is 15 pesos and the expo lasts through August 5th.

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