​Everyone loves SharePoint Saturdays.  They’re low-key, community-generated outlets of SharePoint fellowship.  People show up to hear the experts speak and then share drinks and laughs afterwards while talking a bit of shop.  The idea of Sharing the Point is a direct result of the SharePoint Saturday success.  The idea’s simple – when the community can’t come to you, pack your bags and head their way!  

By now, you may know the details. Sharing the Point South America 2012 will visit four cities down South this January.  This blog offers snapshots of the destinations where our SharePoint Dream Team will be educating users in those communities on the potential of the SharePoint platform. 

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Considered the most cosmopolitan urban center in South America, Buenos Aires is a stunning representation of artistic and cultural beauty.  The Río de la Plata (River of Silver) lines the East and the famous Riachuelo borders the South stretching the booming metropolitan area known as the General Paz Avenue from North to West.  Moderately warm temperatures may not be enough to give SharePoint a tan this January, but remarkable historic interests and a formidable night life should offer some interesting SharePint options.

The STP crew will have more difficulty blending into Uruguay’s capital.  Fewer tourists and older neighborhoods add to the charm of this port city.  It’s still very urban and offers an excess of shopping and culture thanks to popular tango bars and beachfront discos.  Uruguay has held on to her roots firmly and, while leaving room for modern fare and building restorations, Montevideo has never managed to let its culture slip away.  A stroll through the city past cafes, galleries and local performers make this clear.  The outdoor markets will offer some discounted souvenirs for the SharePoint teams stateside. 

Another capital on this tour, Santiago is also the political and cultural center of Chile.  Thanks to its central location, it’s possible to ski in the Andes in the morning be on a beach later that day.  The fertile central valley of Chile offers countless entertainment options and a diverse urban environment which makes exploring effortless.  With one of Latin America’s most modern transport infrastructures, it shouldn’t be difficult for our Sharing the Point team to make it to the sessions on time.  And however they travel, it’s in their best interest to stare out the window and take in the sprawling metropolis that stands in the forefront of the majestic Andes and collection of volcanoes. 

Welcome to the end of the world!  With a winter population of 80 people (the community has 14 homes), this Chilean town is the larger of only two settlements in Antarctica.  You can count the total amount of teachers on one hand and the total hospital staff is up to a whopping two people!  Our SharePoint evangelists will be there long enough to present the platform to penguins and people alike while scratching another notch off the countries that SharePoint has visited.  Dress warmly.