| Author | Message | ||
     Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 666 Registered: 12-2004 |
Ask and you shall receive. | ||
| Lamar Starling New member Username: Lamar Post Number: 3 Registered: 8-2006 |
Good Morning. This first post is for the administrator. I came upon your forum quite by accident but it has, so far, provided a wealth of information. I posted a couple of messages last week and I want to make sure I use this area wisely. I am new to this type format, so if you have the patience to guide me in its proper use, I will follow your direction. My wife and I just book our trip to Buenos Aires for 8 - 17 November. This being our first trip we chose Buenos Aires as our base and have rented what looks to be a lovely apartment in Recoleta from apartmentsba. The dealings with Mariana at apartmentsba have been delightful. We plan to take some day trips and one or two overnight trips, perhaps Cordoba and other areas. There are so many things we do not know that we really don't know where to begin but the first part of the adventure is under way. If anyone has ideas or suggestions, we are most appreciative. Thank you , Lamar Starling Florida, USA | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 668 Registered: 12-2004 |
Lamar, you are doing good. I moved your post here because it was unrelated to the other thread. Also, it gives us an excuse to advise new visitors. Mike, owner of apartmentsba posts here quite often, so we are 'family'. Just tell us more about your desires and wants. Argentina offers a vast number of choices. Do you like outdoors, animals in the wild, beaches, cultural activities? Each destination has different things to offer and can't handle all of them in one visit. But for short trips -given that you will be in Argentina for only 9 nights- I'd say take a look at Iguazu, Cordoba is ok and then day trips to Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay. That will mean 4 destinations: BA, Iguazu, Cordoba and Colonia. Other destinations may require longer stays. | ||
| Lamar Starling New member Username: Lamar Post Number: 4 Registered: 8-2006 |
Thank you so much Roberto. W know we do want to go to Cordoba, with a several stops along the way. Pilar, etc. And we want to go to Punta del Este. By my nearest calculations I think that it is a 600k or so trip. I would like to drive. Are there reasons not to do so. Should we fly to Cordoba and rent a car there? My understanding from reading other posts is that Erna is a travel agent based in BA. If so , can she assist us with various trips? And, how do I contact her? Also, while we do understand that BA is a casual environment, we do want to enjoy the finer places, Alvear Palace, etc. Should we dress more formally, Sport coat, dress, etc. We do not want to offend nor be out of place. (That Ugly American, Syndrome). We are very comfortable in dress clothes so, don't hesitate to tell us. Thank you, again. Lamar & Donna | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 669 Registered: 12-2004 |
Cordoba is slighlty over 700 km from BA. You can drive, the highway is a good one. But my general advise about driving in Argentina comes with a word of caution. Rules are different. Tailgating is not rude behaviour, careless driving means nothing and signs in the streets and roads are not as clear as in the US. You might find that driving through the highway is ok but when entering a city you may feel overwhelmed and stressed. You could drive for a few days in the city of Buenos Aires and if you feel you can handle it, then rent a car for longer distances. But what you see in the streets of BA will probably replicate anywhere. Traffic -in general- is disorganized (compared to the US). You will be ok dressing up. In the city of Buenos Aires at least dwellers dress elegantly when going out, albeit somewhat casual. Yes, Erna owns a travel agency located in downtown Bs As and has a large experience in the field. You can contact her anytime at erna@travelsur.net. This website belongs to her actually. | ||
| Tom Woodson Intermediate Member Username: Diverdown48 Post Number: 129 Registered: 6-2006  |
Alvear Palace is a five star hotel which many Argentines point to as the best in the country. The dress can be casual but not jeans casual. Blazers, sport coats etc. for men. Similiar style for women. They will not put you in jail for wearing them but it is not the norm. | ||
| Julie Hill New member Username: Sky Post Number: 1 Registered: 9-2006 |
There are 3 of us arriving in Buenos Aires on Sept 13 and departing either on the 16th or 17th. Wow...I am overwhelmed at the number of things that interest us and know that we will have to narrow it down to the highlights for this visit. What do you recommend as "the best" of BA? I have done extensive surfing on the web and opinions vary. So whats one or two more, right? Welcome additions to possible information overload for sure!!! Also, is it worth taking a day to visit Colonia? We are thinking that buying a RT ticket on the fast ferry (no tour included) will be best for us and most economical. Would love to try out a basic tango lesson and observe at a milonga? Any recommendations? One website even listed a few places that offer lessons for free as well as 2 free milongas. Does anyone know about these free lessons? We are so excited about visiting BA. I understand warm clothing is in order....will a waterproof lined jacket do? Are gloves/hat necessary? Thanks for responding. All info welcome/appreciated. SKY | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 699 Registered: 12-2004 |
Sky welcome! Gloves and hats are not needed. During September you can still have some chilly days but rarely cold. To be honest, any place offering tango/milongas even for free will be just fine. This dance/music is rooted in Buenos Aires so it will be as common as ordering a steak (we are plain red meat eaters). I really doubt there are places better than others, except for your own personal preferences. Three or four nights will be Buenos Aires in a hurry. Specially, if you plan for the Colonia day. I think it is a good plan though. Then, you can see something out of the ordinary apart from the usual BA tours. As a Buenos Aires native, for me the most interesting aspect of the city is its architecture -where some century old buildings have been recycled for shopping purposes and such- and its cultural corners where you can interact or see artists in action. With more time, the city offers a varied cultural agenda but in a short stay like yours you may miss this. I'd say, spend time in some of the neighborhoods, perhaps walking/shopping/hanging out, like Plaza Francia or Palermo Hollywood. Together with a night or two at the milongas and the tango lessons plus dining out (lots and lots of great food) at places like Piegari or any of the restaurants in the area of La Recoleta or even Palermo H you will cover plenty. | ||
| Isaac Ho New member Username: Lonewolf Post Number: 7 Registered: 6-2006 |
Hi Sky, I'm from Singapore and arrived three weeks ago. I'm currently living near Congresso area. I'll be here for a long time to learn tango and spanish, so I might be able to offer some advice on tango. The best area to be if you want a lot of choices for tango is near Congresso. It is within 15 minutes to at least 3-5 milongas everynight. Of course, in Buenos Aires the transport is pretty good. You can access most milongas in about 30 mins as long as you are staying near the central. If you want to be serious about tango and take quality classes I suggest you check out http://www.eatango.org/ for tango lessons. The pricing is more for tourists (about 15 pesos) but they have good quality teachers. To attend classes that are more for locals (about 10 pesos) you have to dig a bit deeper. Check out www.eltangauta.com for more information. I recommend Cacho Dante, Ana Maria Schapira and also Jorge Firpo, they teach good tango required for social dancing. About milongas they cost from 8 pesos to 15 pesos per entry. There is a certain paradox here: A good milonga with good dancers are usually a bit tourist phobic. People, mostly locals, are there looking for a good time to dance; Vice versa, milongas where a lot of tourists go, especially non dancing tourists, usually the dancing level is not very high. A good balanced place where I might suggest is La Confiteria Ideal (Suipacha 384). Its a very nicely decorated place ala Cafe Tortoni and they have regular performance by world class dancers and tango orchestras. But if you really want to see authentic local milongas where mostly middle to senior aged ladies and gentlemen dance their heart out, I suggest El Arrangue (Bmw Mitre 1759) in the afternoon, or Salon Canning (Scalabrini Ortiz 1331) at night. They are not on all days so you have to check it out before you go. About the free tango classes and milongas I've never heard or tried them. But if they are free, then the quality mustn't be too good. Let me know if you want to know more. PS: No need for hats nor gloves. A big coat or windbreaker with a warm cashmere sweater would suffice. This coming from an asian who lived in a tropical climate all his life. | ||
| Julie Hill New member Username: Sky Post Number: 2 Registered: 9-2006 |
Thanks so much for the great info Roberto and Issac. Issac I was delighted to read about the milongas where mostly middle aged to senior aged ladies/gents dance their hearts out as I fit into this category. I sure hope we can arrange to find them while we are there. I will also be checking out your recommendations for lessons. We would just like to experience it with a lesson or 2 so free might be our best bet. These are the organizations that offer the free lessons and locations: Centro Cultural Adán Buenosayres Parque Chacabuco Friday Gratis Centro Cultural Belgrano R Belgrano Friday Gratis Centro Cultural Borges San Nicolás Friday Centro Cultural Cepna Villa Lugano Friday Gratis Centro Cultural General San Martín San Nicolás Friday Centro Cultural Konex Retiro Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday Centro Cultural Lino Spilimbergo Saavedra Tuesday, Friday Gratis Centro Cultural Macedonio Fernández Mataderos Tuesday, Thursday, Friday Gratis Free Milongas Centro Cultural Adán Buenosayres Parque Chacabuco Friday Free Lo de Celia Tango Constitución Sunday, Friday, Saturday Free Has anyone heard of these organizations? Not sure how we go about contacting them for times but we will deal. We are airline employees and are flexible with our travel plans. We can actually possibly stay until the 19th in BA providing flight availability(hope we can stay longer for sure). However, as of right now the 16th is our best bet to get home. Is any familiar with BA Walking Tours? Found their info on the web and it appears that they offer a nice walking tour with an english guide for a reasonble fee. Thanks again Sky | ||
| Isaac Ho New member Username: Lonewolf Post Number: 8 Registered: 6-2006 |
Hi Julie, About the organizations that you listed for free lessons, I have no clue. One name that stands out however is 'Lo de Celia'. It is a quite a nice, friendly milonga where a lot of good local dancers go to dance. It is located on Humberto Primo 1783. But the last time I went it costs about 8 pesos, not free. I heard they offer good lessons there as well, by a well known dancer named Celia Blanco (the milonga's organizer). For a good list of milonga reviews (and phone numbers to the milonga) you can visit http://www.tangonoticias.com/articles/a2004/aug/ba _list.htm Why not pay the paltry 10 pesos for some quality teaching and milonga? Tango is not an easy dance. But these very good teachers can make it easier for you. Best of all, they know what they are teaching. Its fairly easy and quite common that some guy who danced and learned tango for 6 months and then come out to declare they are teachers. You wouldn't want to learn from people like this. I understand that you just want to take one class to experience tango. First of all, that's asking a lot. Tango is very deep and one to two classes would probably give you 1% of its full enjoyment. Second of all, it depends on your expectations. If you want someone who can make you dance in one lesson then, maybe the free lessons could be it. It may sound like ironic but its not, think about it; The very good teachers focus very much on the fundamentals. Probably by the end of the first class, all you learnt was to stand with a good posture and walk on the rhythm. Whereas for the free lessons (I hypothesize) they probably teach you some choreographed move where after you and your partner learnt it, you can do it; but thats not tango, where it is a totally lead and follow, improvised dance. Well, this is one person's view. I'm coming from a more serious perspective, cause I'm very passionate about the dance. But whatever decision you make, I am sure you would have great time learning tango and also seeing how people engage in a 'conversation with their hearts' during the dance. Besos, Isaac | ||
| New member Username: Jess34jess Post Number: 1 Registered: 9-2006 |
Hello! My boyfriend and I are traveling to BA late October/early November for 10 days. We are very interested in seeing Iguazu Falls, El Calafate for the glaciers and Penisula Valdes for the marine life. . .my question is simply: does this seem feasible in the amount of time we have? OK, a few more questions: is there any other way to get to these destinations other than flying (it seems awfully expensive) and is it possible to rent a car and drive to these cities? Are there comparable cities to these to see the natural beauty of Argentina? Really, any info would help and I appreciate it so much! Thank you! Jessie! | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 704 Registered: 12-2004 |
Jessica, welcome! Air tickets' prices have gone up recently. Yes, you can rent a car for these destinations but I doubt you will be able to do both Iguazu and Calafate within 10 days. They are 2050 miles apart and located at opposite ends. I think you should fly to Calafate and perhaps drive to Iguazu or take the bus. This will make your trip more feasible and you can allot time for Buenos Aires too. Or you can fly to Iguazu and drive to Puerto Madryn and see the Peninsula. I doubt you could make 4 destinations (Iguazu, BA, Pto Mdryn and Calafate) in 10 days, unless you fly them (2 nts each except 3 for BA and 3 for Calafate). A few more cities you can explore are Mendoza, Bariloche, Ushuaia, Salta and Cordoba. | ||
| Huy Nguyen New member Username: Hcnguyen Post Number: 2 Registered: 9-2006 |
Hello Isaac, We enjoyed reading your tips on tango in B.As. and appreciate it very much. You listed EAT which was our original choice, but apparently, they teach only in spanish (my wife does not speak it and I am only a beginner). What alternate school, of at least comparable quality, could you recommend that offer bilingual courses? The type of courses we are most interested in are the like of mecanica del movimiento, Eje, equilibria y balance por parejas and enrosques y syncronizacion de brazos y piernas offered at EAT. | ||
| Tom Woodson Intermediate Member Username: Diverdown48 Post Number: 166 Registered: 6-2006 |
Hi Jessica the buses in Argentina that are used on long routes are a good option with certain qualifiers. Get the prices on the different buses for the destination you want. I would get at least three prices if possible. Take the most expensive one. It will be the most comfortable and the safest. The more expensive bus will be the most comfortable. Bus travel in Ar does not involve "specials". The better the bus, the higher the price. We are talking a few bucks, a nominal amount. The better bus seats recline almost to verticle and have wider. They usually have a movie and travel at night. Good luck. | ||
| Beverly Adams New member Username: Beverly Post Number: 3 Registered: 9-2006 |
Hello Jessica, The two best bus companies that I have traveled on are Via Bariloche and Andesmar. The best class is called "executive class". Via Bariloche serves you three meals a day plus tea time and the seats are very comfortable and fold down to make a small bed. Andesmar has an executive class also, but I've not traveled on it. There are other bus companies that have first class, but I'm not familiar with them. The middle class bus is called "coche cama". The seats recline like a LazyBoy recliner. The common class is called "semi-cama". The seats are narrower and only recline alittle. Like economy airline seats. Beverly | ||
| Tom Woodson Intermediate Member Username: Diverdown48 Post Number: 167 Registered: 6-2006 |
Very good information Beverly. Thanks I have a question if you do not mind. How long does the trip take from Buenos Aires to Bariloche? | ||
| Beverly Adams New member Username: Beverly Post Number: 4 Registered: 9-2006 |
I believe it's about 20 hours. Via Bariloche has "tutto letto" service, aka executive service that is very good. Andesmar doesn't have first class service from Bariloche to Buenos Aires, but I think there are one or two other bus companies that have executive service, but don't know what they would be. The buses leave Bariloche in the afternoon, so most of the trip crossing the pampa is at night. You arrive in Buenos Aires sometime in the morning. Beverly | ||
| Lisa New member Username: Eyetacs Post Number: 1 Registered: 9-2006 |
We will be arriving in BA on 10/23/06 until 11/04. Here is what we would like to see/do while there. Gaucho Festival Uruguay (Colonia-day tour) via ferry Puerto Iguaza (including Ruins of San Ignacio/Wanda mines) Puerto Valdes Ushuaia Do we have time for all of this? Also what order would you recomend doing this? Do we fly into Trelow from BA or is their an airport in Puerto Madryn-Valdes. If Trelow, are there shuttles form airport to Puerto Madryn-Valdes or do you recomend renting a 4x4? As far as Iguaza, would you recomend going by bus or flying? Thanks Lisa Mpls, MN | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 725 Registered: 12-2004 |
You might... The gaucho festival would be a full day tour while in BA, Uruguay will take another day. So after arrival, you can do the former and then head to Iguazu for 2 nights. These will take 5 nights. You are still left with 8 nights for Peninsula Valdes and Ushuaia. I would fly BA - Ushuaia - Puerto Madryn and stay 2 nights in Ushuaia and 3 nights in Puerto Madryn and you would still have a few days left. All flying. | ||
| Lisa New member Username: Eyetacs Post Number: 2 Registered: 9-2006 |
Is this true? if you want to go to different cities within Argentina, you have to go from B.A? For instance, if you are in Iguazu and want to go to Bariloche, you have to fly from Iguazu to B.A. and then to Bariloche. Also should we purchase inland airfare before we leave the USA? Thanks Lisa | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 736 Registered: 12-2004 |
Lisa, buying tickets in advance for your inland destinations is always a good idea. Yes, for most destinations the hub is Buenos Aires although there are a few direct flights now, so you must contact a travel agency and ask. I believe the route IGU-Bariloche connects in BA always. One caveat, those few legs that are non-stop may have few weekly schedules. | ||
| Frances Robbins New member Username: Frances Post Number: 1 Registered: 9-2006 |
Holaaaaa!!!! My husband and I are flying into Buenos Aires and will be staying with some good friends in Esquel. We had the pleasure of hosting their son here in United States and we are going to his graduation!! We will be arriving Dec 4th and leaving Jan 2 back to Seattle, Washington, USA. We are needing information regarding the best way to travel to Esquel. I think it would be wonderful to drive, but my husband says to fly. What are your suggestions? Also could you please recommend an car for hire or airline. Another request....we will be spending a few days in BA, where would you recommend staying. Our son will be meeting us at the airport..so we need a place for three people. Thanks again for your response. We are so happyyyyy to be able to come to your country. Chau | ||
| Tom Woodson Intermediate Member Username: Diverdown48 Post Number: 195 Registered: 6-2006 |
Can't help you with Esquel But staying in Buenos Aires these two speak English. The best five star in my humble opinion is the Alvear Palace in Buenos Aires Capital Federal. It's five star, what more can I say. A friend owns a 4 star Best Western on Junin street about two hundred feet away from Corrientes and close to most places you want to go, The Monumental Hotel and Spa. There are non toursity places to shop and about ten blocks down Corrientes from a huge mall one way and about ten blocks in the other direction on Corrientes from the Obelisco on Ave 9 de Julio. Say hello to Gary, the owner. taxis are still very inexpensive and at either hotel they can get you a private car or reputable taxi. I can't recommend any other hotels having no personal knowledge. It is a beautiful country. I also recommend you have a meal at the Aquellos Anos, Ave. R Obligado y La Pampa. www.aquellosanios.com.ar When they discover you are an American they will probably give you a neat little momento. Great salads with cheeses, a spinich concoction that won't kill you and the steaks are superb. They have other items on the menu that I never get to being somewhat of a creature of habit. | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 737 Registered: 12-2004 |
Adding to Tom's recommendations, there are many 4 stars hotels in the downtown area. If you don't have anything particular in mind and don't want to pay premium money, you can choose any. I prefer flying to Esquel as it is about 1150 miles away... Will take a while to get there. Rountrip ticket to Esquel > approx. usd $360 per person. | ||
| robert cohen New member Username: Bobcat Post Number: 1 Registered: 11-2006 |
HELLO ROBERTO AND FRIENDS, OFF TO BA AN BARILOCHE IN DEC. ONLY FOR 1 WEEK. NEED TO KNOW IF THERE ARE ANY MUST SEES OR DOES IN BARILOCHE. ALSO ANY NICE B&B'S OR BOTIQUE HOTELS CENTRALLY LOCATED? | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 860 Registered: 12-2004 |
Robert, welcome! Many must see's in both places. Unfortunately, the ones on my list are personal favorites such as visiting bosques de Palermo, hanging out in Patio Bullrich and so forth. From a foreigner perspective, Colon theater can be an interesting attraction as well as the northern part of the city, el Delta del Parana (Tigre). Buenos Aires is more about "feeling it" than any particular aspect of it. One thing you must try to do while there is becoming acquainted with Tango and this can take many forms, like attending a local milonga, going out for a dinner show or taking classes. To make sure you do what locals do, find a way to drink mate, eat 'empanadas' or an 'asado' on a Sunday. An off-the-beaten-path could be a visit to the 'hipodromo', check Alan's blog http://www.buenostours.com/ and try pm him. He can probably help you more. Bariloche is an ongoing must see, I am afraid. But if I were to choose only one tour I would go with the lake region. And while down there buy some 'chocolate en rama' and try to get some of the locally produced jams and jellies. | ||
| Maria Vazquez New member Username: Mvazquez Post Number: 1 Registered: 3-2007 |
Hello! I will be flying to B.A. April 15th for 9 days. Part for business and the rest a short vacation. I have been taking Tango here in NY for a short time so thats def something i would like to try. Im also a salsa dancer..any suggestions as to where I can check out the salsa scene in Argentina if any. I will be on this trip on my own, so im a bit nervous, Im sure meeting new people will not be too difficult. I would also love to take a day trip to Uruguay..is this possible??? Thanks!! Maria | ||
| Teresita Vergara New member Username: Tere_vergara Post Number: 1 Registered: 5-2007 |
Hola! Lonely planet no es suficiente... I need help hehe!!Viajo a Santiago el 14 de mayo -creo que estará un poco frío- el punto entonces, es que ojalá pudieran recomendarme un circuito de viaje. Cuento con 40 días y habia pensado en santiago - mendoza - cordoba - bueno aires (tal vez montevideo) - bariloche - puerto montt- chiloé - pucon - temuco y de regreso a santiago. żqué tal? igual es poco tiempo, tal vez pueda saltarme una ciudad y contemplar otra que valga mas la pena visitar... otra cosa, ˇque taaan frío estará?! sería mejor que empezara hacia el sur de Chile e ir subiendo conforme pasen los días? | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 1087 Registered: 12-2004 |
Maria, sorry I missed your inquiry. My son was born recently and has taken (is taking) a lot of my time. Teresita, hoy -Mayo 7- hay baja temperatura en Buenos Aires pero no tanto. En estas paginas puedes ver las condiciones actuales de clima dia a dia: Buenos Aires forecast Mendoza forecast Bariloche forecast Cordoba forecast Cuarenta dias en realidad es bastante tiempo para visitar todos los destinos mencionados. Tal vez sea mejor empezar hacia el sur tal como lo anticipaste. Santiago > Mendoza > Bariloche {cross into chile (Puerto Montt, etc)} > Buenos Aires > Cordoba While in Buenos Aires you can make a short escapade to Colonia -either a day trip or an overnight- and you should also explore visiting Montevideo perhaps. There are a few destinations you didn't mention and might be worth researching. On your way up from Bariloche consider visiting east of Chubut (Puerto Madryn) where there is a very large wild animal reservoir. Also, if you finally decide on Cordoba make sure you stop by Carlos Paz. Cordoba has a corridor of smaller towns that are really pretty (Alta Gracia, La Cumbre, etc). | ||
| Walter Aleman New member Username: Wallas Post Number: 2 Registered: 4-2007 |
Teresita, Si visitas Mendoza, no dudes en contactarnos. Mi nombre es Walter y con mi esposa, somos fanaticos de este lugar. Si te interesa tener alguna informacion especifica sobre Mendoza, solo tienes que pedirla. Laura ( my wife ), es especialista en flora y fauna de Mendoza ( tambien de Patagonia ) y habitualmente suele acompańar a extranjeros que les interesa las excursiones de outdoor ( trekking, birdwatching, etc ) Tambien tenemos un campo en Barreal, que es un valle situado entre la precordillera y la cordillera, en la ciudad de San Juan. Es realmente un sueńo ese lugar. Lo que necesites, solo tienes que pedirlo. Suerte y buena estadia en Argentina. Walter | ||
| Dale A Whiteside New member Username: Travler Post Number: 1 Registered: 7-2007 |
Hi Everyone I am in the planning stages of another vacation in November (the last 2 weeks) and am looking at Argentina. I hope to receive some recommendations as to what / where. I want to 1) Learn a bit about the culture and history 2) Enjoy the typical Argentina Foods 3) Deep sea fishing for Sailfish or Marlin 4) Gaucho - Ranch Life / mountains / forests White water rafting other outdoors activities Now my one problem is that I have only 2 weeks for this trip :-) I am learning a little Spanish and hope to make my needs known in Spanish and be able to read a menu that type of thing. I am not wealthy and so look for a nice upper scale place - but really as long as it's clean and safe I am happy. I do like mingling with locals and learning new things. Suggestions please Thanks for your help Dale | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 1194 Registered: 12-2004 |
Hello Dale and welcome! Most of what you desire can be accomplished visiting a few areas so two weeks should be plenty of time. Although you can find a little bit of history in every corner of every city in Argentina, there are places that are more representative than others. For example, visiting the northeast will give you a glimpse of the jesuit colonies. If you also visit Cordoba, you can expand your knowledge on how missionaries populated the region throughout the Spanish Viceroyalty period. Buenos Aires, of course, is at the center of all this and there are many ways to discover how 'things' took place and shaped what you see today. In order to make the most of a trip to Buenos Aires I would recommend some reading before you come. Otherwise, you may miss the most important aspects of neighborhoods like Puerto Madero, San Telmo, Plaza de Mayo and the like, where the first Buenos Aires settlements ocurred more then 400 years ago. Typical argentine food can be had just about anywhere. Focus on meat of course, but you should also try 'empanadas', 'chimichurri' with your meat, a complete 'parrillada' that includes many more meats beyond the tradiditonal steaks, 'dulce de leche' which is a local sweet spread made out of condensed milk, 'yerba mate' (lots of buzz in the US about it) to be sipped via a mate. You can also get 'locro' in some places (a local stew) and if you want to make it really local eat your 'chorizo' as a choripan (in a sandwich). To become acquainted with the gaucho life you can spend a day in a ranch in the surroundings of the city of Buenos Aires and perhaps spend a night or two (although this is slighlty expensive). If you do a full day visit -even though this is mostly a tourist attraction- you will be in touch with real contemporary gauchos, get to see their clothing, manners, dances and music... and for sure you will eat some of the foods described above. Forests and mountains are mostly to the west. In which case, you should plan an escapade to Mendoza and south. Mendoza is perhaps the ideal in that you will be able to do some rafting. Places like San Rafael offer great outdoors. I have less knowledge about fishing. If what you want is Marlin, then I would explore Trelew in Chubut. Putting it all together I would consider these destinations: Iguazu - Jesuits/Falls: 3 nights (tropical jungle, history and impressive Falls) Mendoza - San Rafael: 4 nights (rafting, mountains) Cordoba - city/Carlos Paz: 3 nights (history, museums, culture) Buenos Aires - city/ranches: 4 nights (history, gauchos, ranches, museums) This itinerary covers 14 nights. Alternatively, you can switch Cordoba for Puerto Madryn/Trelew and make an attempt to do some deep sea fishing but you may have to dig a lot until you find who offers this (try contacting http://www.flycastchubut.com.ar/). | ||
| richard cooperman New member Username: Eroica38 Post Number: 1 Registered: 6-2007 |
My wife and I will be spending 15 days in Argentina (first time) beginning 6 December 2007. So far our plan is to spend about a week in BA and then venture off - the falls, Salta, Mendoza, Cordoba - not sure where. Perhaps a day or so in Uruguay. We are city people so fishing or mountain adventures have little appeal. We are well travelled and really want to get a feel for Argentina, its people, culture, music, food and history. Any suggestions as to where we should spend our time? Given the distances we will likely have to limit our excursions and definitely will fly. All help GREATLY appreciated. | ||
| Dale A Whiteside New member Username: Travler Post Number: 2 Registered: 7-2007 |
Hi Richard After what Roberto gave me I looked up some things and fould the following links - take a look at these web sites I think they can help us figur out things to see and do. Dale Mendoza Wines http://www.welcomeargentina.com/vino/mendoza_i.htm l Igunazu Water falls at junction of Brazil Argentina http://www.interhabit.com/iguazu/iguazu_national_p ark_98.htm hope these help you - Dale | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 1198 Registered: 12-2004 |
Richard, welcome. The links Dale suggested are good ones and will give you a glimpse into wine country. I think Mendoza is a good choice as it has much more than outdoors. The wine circuit and its museums are a great attraction. Iguazu falls is another high mark. You can always take a full day visit to Colonia (Uruguay) while you are in Buenos Aires. | ||
| MIchael Calero Junior Member Username: Michael795 Post Number: 30 Registered: 4-2007 |
While watching the news from Buenos Aires yesterday, everyone was outdoors enjoying the snow which fell upon the city for the first time since 1928. | ||
| Maria-Stella Fountoulakis New member Username: Mariastella Post Number: 1 Registered: 1-2008 |
Hi There! I am planning a trip to Argentina for the 3rd week of Feb for about 10 days. I am a little concerned about going alone. It seems to enjoy the nightlife comes with risks and unwanted attention. I live in NYC now and still am cautious with where I am and with who I am at certain times of night. Also, camping/trips to the country/hostels, are all these feasible as a woman alone? I know no one can make a guarantee here, but... you know, I have to ask. | ||
| Leandro New member Username: Leandro Post Number: 9 Registered: 12-2007 |
Hi-Maria Stella A part of the Argentine you plan to travel or learn? Quizsas come to Mendoza if you can get help. Leandro Suarez http://www.businessmendoza.blogspot.com/ | ||
| Adam Williams New member Username: Adjwilli Post Number: 9 Registered: 1-2008 |
Medoza is really one of my favorite spots in Argentina. You'll find a charming, medium-sized city, lots of excursions into the mountains, more vineyards than you can imagine. It actually sounds perfect for the camping/trips to the country you're looking for. You might also want to check out some estancias in Gran Buenos Aires. Also, Salta has a lot of really cool excursions around there, though the city itself isn't very special. | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 1455 Registered: 12-2004 |
Maria, where in Argentina will you be spending these 10 days? | ||
| Agnas New member Username: Agnas Post Number: 1 Registered: 1-2008 |
Hello; My husband and I are planning a trip to Buenos Aires/ Argentina in March and are still in the planning stages (!) There is so much information out there. I was hoping someone could give us some suggestions. 1) We will be in Argentina for about twelve days in March 2) Six days we are planning to be in Buenos Aires 3) The remaining six days we are planning to visit either El Calafate, Iguazu Falls, Ushuaia, Patagonia 4) Could you please suggest day trips we can make in the first six days we are in Buenos Aires? 5) What will be the best way to get around from El Calafate to Iguazu etc...? Fly, bus? 6) How long should we spend at these places? We are on a student budget, but are looking for decent quality accommodation/ trip. If anyone could guide us with our planning and give us suggestions - that would be much appreciated! Agnas | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 1469 Registered: 12-2004 |
Agnas, welcome! Some quick answers for you... 1) Excellent weather. 2) Six days is *plenty* for BA. Remember that by March, everyone is back from vacations (whatever that means). 3) I would do a combo Calafate/Ushuaia (3/2). This is Patagonia! 4) Standard day trips are: visits to ranches, El Jardin de Japones in Palermo, all neighborhoods+shopping centers (they are old recycle buildings), Plaza Francia and the weekend flea market, also the flea market in San Telmo. Many museums. Visit north of the city (the Delta region). Are you into soccer games? That is another option. Have plenty of time to hang out in cafes and such. 5) Calafate > Iguazu: only flying with connection in Buenos Aires. 6) Iguazu needs no more than 2 nights unless you really enjoy this type of subtropical formation. Calafate 3 nights and Ushuaia 2 nights. This is the least amount of days. You could probably do some decent 3 stars hotels in some of the destinations. Def in Buenos Aires. | ||
| Maria-Stella New member Username: Mariastella Post Number: 2 Registered: 1-2008 |
Robert, Adam, Leandro, thank you for writing back! I have been trying to make up my mind to go alone or not. Friends kept saying they were interested in going and then changing their minds so i have been delayed in making a decision. Is it better to travel to Argentina with company or go alone? I need an escape from the city and the warmth of the culture and climate sounds great. Also good is the conversion rate for the dollar. Mendoza sounds lovely. Would it be silly to go to Mendoza and not stay in BA? I want to arrange the tours/excursions once I am there and not book ahead of time. Any feedback on this approach? I was thinking: Go to BA and stay a night or two, then fly or take a bus to Mendoza and stay the rest of the time until I have to fly back. Maybe 7-9 days for the whole trip. What do you all think? Again, I will be travelling alone and I am a petite woman whose kung fu days are behind her. I also have a lonely planet guide I have been reading and the whole country sounds so amazing! Would it be better to go another time and stay the month? | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 1472 Registered: 12-2004 |
Mendoza can be a nice place to go on a trip by yourself. And skipping BA is not a silly idea. But given that you have many days it may be a shame to at least not spend 1 night upon arrival. Bus? Yes! I think being alone may make it easier for arrangements and you can take the risk of not planning in advance. Specially if you are looking for cheaper accomodations. > Would it be better to go another time and stay the month? Carpe diem | ||
| WTMendoza.com Intermediate Member Username: Welcometomendoza Post Number: 115 Registered: 7-2007  |
Mendoza is super cool but I may be jaded. I run across woman traveling alone all the time but don't tell mny wife (just kidding!..kidding about my wife, but not about woman traveling alone)). Give yourself a least 2 to 4 days in Mendoza - it is a big spread out place. Upper Mendoza alone is Mendoza city (a mini-BA) , wine country, more wine country, Uco valley, and the mountain towns all the way to Chile. This all does not even include San Rafael, home of the Atul Canyon. good luck! If you get down to Uco valley don't miss lunch at Salentein winery, the best mountain view lunch there is in all the valley, although O'fournier is up and coming also. good luck! | ||
| Maria-Stella New member Username: Mariastella Post Number: 3 Registered: 1-2008 |
Thanks! Any hostels in Mendoza that you all would recommend? | ||
| WTMendoza.com Intermediate Member Username: Welcometomendoza Post Number: 116 Registered: 7-2007 |
hostels, try this: http://www.mendoza.com.ar/hostels_2.html | ||
| TomD New member Username: Dysonmisz Post Number: 1 Registered: 1-2008 |
We are planning to come to Argentina for our honeymoon in April. We thought of staying 4 days in BA then flying to Ushuaia and exploring that area for 6 days then flying to El Calafate for 9 days and then return to BA for a night or two. Does this give us sufficient time do some interesting hikes in the national parks? T&A | ||
| Roberto Board Administrator Username: Admin Post Number: 1476 Registered: 12-2004 |
Hello Tom and welcome! Yes, that is actually plenty of time. In Calafate you may want to cover also the El Chalten area which has been a favorite of trekking aficionados for some time. Some tour guide companies will only offer hiking tours up to mid April. | ||
| Adam Williams New member Username: Adjwilli Post Number: 11 Registered: 1-2008 |
There's really not much more I can add about Mendoza. Everyone else already answered the questions better that I could have. I was only there for five days but wish it had been longer. You'll have a great time Stella! |
