Argentina

Country Overview

Argentina is the second-largest country in South America, and the eighth largest country in the world.  It borders Paraguay and Bolivia to the north, Brazil and Uruguay to the northeast, and Chile to the west and south.  Located in the Southern Hemisphere, the temperatures in Argentina are opposite of what you would expect in the US or Western Europe.  December is hot while July is the peak of the winter season.  In many ways Argentina is a land of extremes: its chaotic urban centers contrast with nearby uninhabited wilderness.

While Argentina has 23 different provinces, the capital city of Buenos Aires is home to one in three Argentines.  The Argentines who live in this bustling metropolis are commonly referred to as porteños, which translates as “people of the port.”  Porteños are closely connected with their Italian and Spanish origins as most immigrants decided to remain in the port to which they arrived.

Culture

Argentina has strong European heritage, with definite Italian, Spanish, and German influences.  Immigrant culture has played a large role in the development of the country, from the tango to local architecture and the frequently heard dialect Lunfardo.

Social life is of utmost importance in Argentina, specifically in porteño culture.  Walking through Buenos Aires, you’ll be sure to discover cinemas, theatres, concert venues and more.  Argentines are also proud to boast an avid nightlife.  Dinner typically begins between 10:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m. and nightclubs only open to the public around 1:00 a.m.  Nightlife is in no way limited to young adults; it is a way of life for all ages.  Another demonstration of the Argentines’ fervor for life is fútbol, a national obsession. The tango, gauchos and estancias are Argentina’s widely known attractions, but what strikes visitors most is the fast, vibrant pace of life.

Travel Tips

As with anywhere in the world, you should be well aware of your surroundings at all times, and avoid walking alone at night in desolate, unlit areas.  A visitor’s principal concern will be pickpockets, and there are many of them hard at work, especially in the most popular tourist destinations in Buenos Aires.  Many work in teams, and they may employ scams such as spilling a liquid on you so their colleague can offer to clean you up (emptying your pockets in the process).  Avoid carrying large amounts of money in vulnerable spots such as your back pocket; money belts and leg pouches are two secure means of carrying cash and other important documents.  If you carry a purse, make sure you have it tucked under your arm.  If you stop to watch a tourist attraction such as street tango, or a magic trick, beware of being a “sitting duck” for a pickpocket.

The best way to plan your way around Buenos Aires is with the help of the Guía T, which is a book of street maps, bus routes, the metro (subte), and trains.  It is indispensable if you plan to use a combination of walking and public transportation.  The guide is available at any kiosko and it’s well worth it!

Taxis are a common mode of transport and highly suggested after the porteño metro el subte has closed for the evening.  This is the safest way to get from spot-to-spot while still taking in the sights and sounds of the city.  Be sure to provide as close to exact change as you are likely to receive counterfeit money from your taxista in return for larger bills.  Be sure the taxista turns on the meter as soon as you are in the cab to avoid haggling over an unknown fare when you reach your destination.  Be aware that changencan be hard to come by as there is a national shortage and store owners are increasingly wary of large bills being counterfeit and therefore will not accept your bills.

The voltage in Argentina is 220 volts.  You will need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances.  While using an adapter is essential, often an adapter doesn’t account for voltage differences and certain devices can become over-heated or destroyed.  Consider buying a hairdryer, curling iron, or other heated styling device locally.

Go!

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