MORE ABOUT ARGENTINA
Magnificent mountains, vast deserts, dense forests and the majestic Iguaçu waterfalls.. from the remote wilderness of the pampas to sophisticated Buenos Aires.  

Argentina makes up almost the entire southern half of South America, and is the world's eighth largest country. Its amazing array of landscapes brags some of the world's tallest mountains, deserts, and amazing waterfalls. From the hot northern deserts, and remote areas in southern Patagonia, to the bustling metropolis of Buenos Aires, Argentina has something for all types of traveler and visitor.

LIVING IN BUENOS AIRES:
Buenos Aires is alive with culture and is fast becoming one of Latin America's most popular and vibrant cities, with plenty to keep you entertained at all times of the day and night.  Buenos Aires is a beautiful and seductive city situated on the banks of the Rio de la Plata. It was built by European immigrants and has a resemblance to Barcelona, Paris and Rome. The locals, known as the “Los portenos”, are renowned for their extravagant and rich cultural identity, which is reflected in the character and uniqueness of their city. The cafes, smoky tango bars, parks, and street corner football games all help form the essence of this diverse city. Not to mention the nightlife, one of the best in world, thriving with youngsters enjoying a variety of different styles of bars and clubs, often open till 7am…..or later!!

Tourism is one of Argentina's biggest industries. This increase in tourists and money has bought together a rich mix of traditional and modern Argentina and has helped make the country one of the most popular locations in Latin America.

Buenos Aires, a city designed in blocks, is divided into different neighbourhoods, each with their own characteristic flair. Some are old and some are new, but each ones has it own style and tells its own tale. Some of the most famous neighbourhoods include:

San Telmo - the oldest of Buenos Aires neighbourhoods has wide cobbled streets, lined with market stalls and antique shops. At weekends San Telmo comes alive with entertainers, dancers and musicians. Visit one of the many outdoor cafes for this weekly spectacle, stopping off to buy some local art work or souvenirs. 

Recoleta - considered to be one of the finest and most expensive areas of the city with French style buildings and large green open spaces. There is a cemetery in Recoleta which houses the gravestone of Eva Perón, Argentina's first lady and most famous historical figure. At the weekend a sprawling market opens, selling local artwork and food. Surrounded by cafes, it is a truly great way to wind away the long afternoons.

Palermo - this fashionable district has many parks, wide streets and old houses. It's here that you'll find the latest trends at clothes stores and boutiques, along with a huge array of unique and modern restaurants. Palermo is at it's most vibrant on Sunday's, when Plaza Sorano is taken over by market stalls providing fashionable clothes at great prices.  

La Boca -  the brightly painted multicolour tin houses within the main Caminito Street give La Boca its character. Locally produced art work and tango displays are often found here. La Boca is also home to one of Buenos Aires most famous football teams 'Boca Juniors'. For a truly unique experience, get tickets for a Boca V's River Plate match - these two teams have a history of rivalry and as such, the games are always a hugely anticipated event. 

Throughout the city you find broad plazas typical of Latin American urban centers. The most important of these is the Plaza de Mayo, linked by the Avenida 25 de Mayo with the Plaza del Congreso. Both plazas are surrounded by major government buildings such as the Casa Rosada, the presidential residence on the Plaza de Mayo. The Avenida 25 de Mayo is lined with restaurants and businesses. Nearby Avenida 9 de Julio is popularly known as the world's widest thoroughfare and, with its nine lanes of traffic, this truly is a pedestrian's nightmare!

The central business district has high-rise office buildings and retail stores. Automobiles are not allowed on the Calle Florida and shoppers roam its elegant stores, coffee houses and hotels. The nearby Calle Reconquista is the financial centre of the city. Outside the central business district much of the surrounding city has attractive cobblestone streets bordered by large, elegant houses and small, boutique style shops. Many parks and local shopping districts are spread throughout the city, giving lots of activity and also lots of tranquility.

The spirit of Argentina shines through it's national dance, the Tango... enigmatic, sultry, elegant and exuberantly passionate. Getting to grips with this dance is no easy feat but Buenos Aires is certainly the place to learn. Tango clubs throughout the city hold Milonga's which are open tango parties where all levels dance together and continuously change partners. A great way to meet locals on the tango scene, learn the music and practice your steps!

The De la Plata River plays an important role in the life of Buenos Aires. Oranges, grapefruit, cherries, plums, and vegetables grow in the delta and holiday homes flourish everywhere with thousands of people participating in river sports over the weekends. The De la Plata not only provides recreation, but also links the hinterlands with Buenos Aires and supplies water to the population.

The romance of Argentina takes one's breath away. The natural wonders alone take some beating! From the northern deserts to the southern Andean Cordillera, from Iguazú Falls to the magnificent desolation of Patagonia, Argentina's geography is varied and stunning. 

Argentina is geared up to thrill - from nights tangoing in the chic quarter of Buenos Aires to gaucho riding in the grasslands of the Pampas.  Dynamic and bustling, a city which seems never to sleep, Buenos Aires is one of the most exciting cities in Latin America. Tango was born here, restaurants serve all manner of world cuisines, bars play the latest music, cafés spill on to the streets and nightclubs allow dancing throughout the night.

CUISINE AND EATING OUT IN ARGENTINA
Argentine cuisine is an adaptation of Spanish, Italian, Middle Eastern and other European food, with a heavy emphasis on meat, in particular Beef. Beef is consumed in a variety of ways, the most traditional is the Parilla – other wise known as a Barbeque! Also common are meat and vegetable pies, empanadas (similar to pasties) and pasta dishes such as meat Ravioli or bolognese.

Vegetarianism is not all that common in Argentina so if you are a vegetarian you may find that there is a limited choice in local restaurants. But if you have a sweet tooth, this is the country for you, because so do the Argentineans! Desserts usually include ice cream, custard flan, pastries and cakes all sweet enough to rival those found in European cities like Paris. Dulche de Leche is a caramelised milk and sugar concoction which is often eaten for breakfast and is a typical local delicacy.

Current weather in Buenos Aires (close weather window to return here)

Argentina Managers Adriana and Melina with volunteers at the monthly Travellers dinner.