Summary:
A trip to Buenos Aires, with excursions to Iguazu and Colonia provides the intrepid traveler with an affordable yet diverse vacation. Learn more about what to see and how to get around in this exciting South American destination.

Details or Sample:
Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, Colonia

By Lisa Marie Mercer

Most people will tell you that Buenos Aires is one of the most European cities they have ever visited. This is somewhat ironic, considering that Buenos Aires is located in South America. Depending upon what part of the city you choose to visit, you might agree with this assessment. However, if you really want to get a sense of the more “South American” aspects of Buenos Aires, it behooves you to get out and explore the entire city.

Why Go?

Aside from the airfare, which might be a bit expensive, Buenos Aires is a highly affordable travel destination. In general, the price of something in pesos might be what you expect the dollar amount to be in US funds. For example, dinner for two, including wine, appetizers, entrée and desert may come to about 45 pesos. However, depending upon the value of the dollar, that converts to roughly $15 US! Even taxi fares in Buenos Aires are relatively inexpensive, so if you want to make the most of your time, go ahead and use them!

Affordability is not the only reason to visit Buenos Aires. The city has a fascinating history, with a variety of diverse neighborhoods that embody the different aspects of South American culture. From art, to historical sites, to tango dancing, Buenos Aires has it all!

If planning a Buenos Aires trip, keep in mind that they are experiencing summer when it is winter in North America. That said, their summers can be rather hot. However, if you can handle the heat, the trip is even more affordable from November to May.

Where to Stay

The Art Hotel is located in the beautiful Recoleta section in Buenos Aires. This quaint boutique hotel is set in a 100-year old town house. On the ground floor, you will find an art gallery, as well as a small café where breakfast, which is included in your room rate, is served. Breakfast consists of a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, yogurts and breads. They also serve a unique type of hard-boiled egg. They are about the size of a cherry tomato, but totally delicious. There is also a PC in the lobby, with free Internet access.

What to See

Everyone should plan to visit the Recoleta district of Buenos Aires. If possible, visit on a weekend, when a fantastic local crafts fair takes place outside the cemetery. The cemetery itself is “home” to some of the most famous leaders in Argentina’s history, such as Eva Peron. Each “grave” is actually the size of a small home.

Speaking of Eva Peron, don’t miss the Evita Museum, located at 2988 Lafinur Street in the Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires. Here, you will find rare footage of her speeches, fantastic photographs and displays of some of her magnificent outfits. While you are in the somewhat bohemian Palermo neighborhood, don’t forget to visit Palermo Park. Here, you will find a Japanese garden, a zoo and a planetarium. However, cat lovers like me will be thrilled by the vast array of stray cats that roam through the park.

To get a sense of a unique Buenos Aires neighborhood, pay a visit to La Boca. From the colorful houses, the murals and the tango dancers on the street, a visit to La Boca lets you know that you are truly in South America. In many ways, this is the best way to see tango dancing. We did go to the Piazolla Tango on Florida Street, but it’s a bit pricey, and over commercial. However, they do pick you up and bring you back to your hotel, and dinner is included in the price of the show.

Although Buenos Aires is famous for its beef, vegetarians need not worry. Most restaurants serve some sort of pizza or pasta dish.

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