Argentina

Evita may sing “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” but it is you who will be weeping tears of delight when you lay your eyes upon the South American splendour that is Argentina.

As the eighth largest country in the world, and the second largest in South America, Argentina is home to over 40 million people. It has both the natural and cultural aspects that people have come to expect from a South American country, but it offers something more. Much of the country has a very European flare and visitors from Europe and North America should have no problem fitting in and feeling at home.

The capital city, Buenos Aires, is often referred to as the Paris of South America. The city is decorated with French style buildings, sculptures and fountains. This cosmopolitan capital is a plethora of immigrants, making it the melting pot of the south. Despite the country’s economic issues, the city doesn’t lack in excitement. The city features world renowned performers and incredible theatre productions. Many shops stay open late into the night, creating an almost New York like atmosphere of a city that never sleeps. The colourful buildings provide an exciting feast for the eyes and the cobble stone streets are great for exploring.

Anyone planning to visit during Argentina’s summer months should be warned of the scorching temperatures. This is probably the best time to get out of the big city and visit a coastal resort. Argentina has several beaches, but for a really great beach experience simply nip across the border into Uruguay. The beach resorts of Punta del Este and Jose Ignacio are both up scale and internationally known vacation spots where you can rub noses with locals and celebrities alike.

Best Time to Go

Argentina is pleasant to visit almost any time of the year. Since it is such a long country, the temperatures range from subtropical in to north, to humid in the centre and cold in the south. As far as prices are concerned, January, February and July are the most expensive times to travel. Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Buenos Aires while Patagonia is best visited in the summer.

Language Barriers

Country code +54

The official language of Argentina is Spanish. There are some differences in the Spanish spoken in Argentina but it is generally the same. If you plan on calling a mobile telephone, you must first dial 15. If you do not have a mobile telephone then there are telecentros. The advantage of these is that you only pay for the time you have spoken on the phone and you are able to see how long you have been talking.

Cash, Card or Cheque?

Argentine Peso/ Arg$

The Argentine peso is the national currency but some higher end hotels will accept the US dollar. This is also true for places in Buenos Aires too, but you should still make sure to have some pesos on you as well. As in any other major city, credit cards are accepted and ATMs are present. However, a recent change allows ATM users only to withdraw a maximum of Arg$300 at a time. You can do this three separate times but you are charged a fee each time.

How Much?

Prices in Argentina are quickly rising however; it still remains very reasonably priced. In a restaurant it is customary to tip about 10%. Waiters are usually very underpaid and any tip is appreciated.

Getting around

Argentina has an excellent bus system. They are usually quite **affordable**, fast and **comfortable**. Most buses have bathrooms onboard. There is usually an attendant to tag your luggage and place it below for you. It is customary to tip them. Overnight buses for long journeys are available. Buenos Aires does have a train and an underground system, which is the oldest in South America.

Staying and playing safe

Dial 101 for the police, 131 for the federal police, 100 for the fire department and 107 for a medical emergency. Argentina is generally safe however the crime rate is increasing due to the economic crises. There are far more reports of pickpockets and beggars asking for money. Abductions in taxis and street assaults have increased as well. Be careful when getting into a taxi and be aware of your surroundings. This type of crime is usually only in larger cities.

Red tape

If you are from the UK, US, Canada or Spain then you do not need a visa to enter Argentina for 90 days or less. All other countries should find out from an Argentinean embassy. Visitors to Argentina should have a passport on them at all times. Currently (2008) there has been an increase in cases of the yellow fever. Those traveling to the northeast and north of Argentina, including Puerto Iguazú and all areas bordering Paraguay and Brazil are advised to get a vaccination before leaving home.

Resources

goargentina.com – A wonderful site for everything Argentina, including climate, maps, hotels, history and more.

Guide by; Jessica Chesko