Having been to many cities throughout the world, Aleks has seen it all, but there will always be a special place in his heart for the beautiful Buenos Aires, Argentina. Aleks’s love for the city can be seen as he shares his Buenos Aires travel experience, which takes us through the city’s many neighborhoods, parks, and hotspots. He also threw in plenty of insider tips for the perfect Buenos Aires trip from must see sights to food recommendations, for a Buenos Aires travel tale that has it all!

Make a stop in the center of Buenos Aires to get view of the famous Obelisk.

During his Argentina vacation, Aleks spent most of his time in Buenos Aires experiencing the city’s culture in the many diverse neighborhoods of the city. A Buenos Aires city tour will take you through the areas, which Aleks explored, and provides you with the history behind each district.

Aleks explored San Telmo, where cobblestone streets are filled with artists and street performers and the plaza hosts a unique market. He recommends visiting this area on a Sunday because it is especially lively! Aleks also suggests spending some time in Palermo Soho, as “this awesome neighborhood has plenty of excellent shops, restaurants, bars, and designer hotels.” Palermo is also the perfect place to escape the bustling city feel, as it has over 350 acres of lakes, wooded areas and parks.

Aleks visited the Botanical Gardens, a great place to find some peace and quiet in Buenos Aires.

Another one of the reasons Aleks loves Buenos Aires is because of its excellent food, wine, and nightlife, which he describes as second to none in all of South America.  Describing the city as a “food and wine lover’s paradise,” he recommends trying the Argentinean asado(barbecue) paired with a Malbec wine from the nearby Mendoza region, and for desert eating a delicious Alfajor. By just walking the streets and popping into cafes, Aleks found some great snacks, including many varieties of empanadas and some excellent pizza slices.

Experience the art of the Tango during your Buenos Aires travel.

Buenos Aires is also famous for the Tango and Aleks was able to enjoy a few small scale Tango shows during his time in the city.  Though this dance isn’t something Aleks sees himself mastering anytime soon, he appreciates the talent of the dancers. He describes the dance as “amazing” explaining that, “The dancers carried it out to perfection! It seemed effortless for them as they moved around with ease.” A Tango show or catching one of the many Tango festivals throughout the year is the perfect way to get a feel for the culture of Buenos Aires, a “must-do” suggestion from Aleks.

From conversing and getting to know the locals to exploring the sights and streets of the city, Aleks enjoyed his time in the city. He explains, “Buenos Aires has something for everyone,” making it the perfect destination for your Argentina vacation.

Museum of Fine Arts

Among the city’s many museums, two deserve special mention and should be incorporated into any trip to Buenos Aires. Perhaps the most complete and well-maintained is the famous Museo de Bellas Artes (Museum of Fine Arts) located in the upscale district of Recoleta on Avenida Libertador. Here you’ll find permanent classic art displays as well as temporary exhibitions from modern Latin American artists. If contemporary art is your guilty pleasure, make sure to pay a visit to the Museo de Arte LatinoAmericana de Buenos Aires (MALBA).

Grafitti

Only true Porteños – inhabitants of Buenos Aires – know about the city’s real artistic treasures, which can be found virtually on every corner. What may seem like vandalism to many is actually Buenos Aires’ most extraordinary and creative form of artistic expression: graffiti. Convince a friendly local to show you around, or take a Buenos Aires walking art tour to see the most impressive of these ephemeral masterpieces.

San Telmo, Buenos Aires’ oldest district, is teeming with such works of art and is a pleasure to explore—you never know what you’re going to stumble upon. Make sure to stop at the Art Factory Hostel, which houses the city’s largest permanent exhibition of graffiti and mural art.

Art Galleries

Buenos Aires is home to a spectacular number of smaller art galleries, many of which deserve a stop, if only for a peep. Most of them can be found in the district of San Telmo or Palermo. Among the most alternative and acclaimed galleries is Mar Dulce, brand new and boasting a well-stocked library of art books. Another top choice is Wallrod, which is off the beaten path and probably one of the most happening galleries in Buenos Aires. Once a month most venues stay open late and put on shows for Gallery Night.

Art Fair

Internationally recognized as a world capital for arts, Buenos Aires annually holds an International Art Fair, known as Arte BA, where artists from around the world gather to share their work and set new art trends. This year, the fair will take place from Thursday, May 19 to Monday, May 23 everyday from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. Over 70 art galleries throughout the city will be participating in the event and will display works from selected artists. The trendy and bohemian barrio Joven Chandon will host the fair.

If you wish to learn more about Buenos Aires’ many treasures and attractions, and start planning your exciting Argentina vacation, contact one of our travel advisors.

The Famous Mar del Plata Beach Resort

With an extensive coastline running along the Atlantic Ocean, Argentina boasts some excellent beaches that will thrill everyone, from nature lovers and party goers to the most discriminative travelers. There is a wide range of beaches featuring distinct characteristics to suit all tastes: highly urbanized 24-hour party resorts, complete wilderness, and private spa retreats, Argentina has a beach for everyone.

Here is a selection of some of the best beaches in the country, where you are assured to have a blast whatever your interests are:

Probably the most famous in the country, and the first you will hear about, Mar del Plata is a favorite among locals and foreigners alike. Built in 1874, the country’s oldest beach resort features about 17 kilometers of beautiful beaches along the coastline, and is surrounded by picturesque landscapes of rolling hills. Bear in mind that this is one of the top vacation destination for Argentineans, so summer months can get pretty crowded.

If you are looking for some activity and 24 hour partying, and don’t mind sharing your spot on the beach, this is the perfect beach. There is plenty of choice for restaurants, bars and nightclubs in this resort, so rest assured, you will not be bored! The trendiest restaurants and shopping are found on Playa Grande, and if you want a more chilled out experience, head out to Playa Punta Mogotes.

The Upscale Pinamar Beach

One of the most luxurious beach resorts in the country, Pinamar is the perfect destination for travelers looking for relaxation and calm, while still wanting to enjoy the maximum level of comfort. Designer stores, gourmet restaurants, boutique hotels, luxury spas, and white sand beaches await you in Pinamar. This is a popular destination for the wealthy that are looking to get pampered for a few days. A favorite among the Argentinean elite, and a must if you are looking for luxury and serenity, away from the masses of tourists, Carilo offers amazing cabins secluded among the foliage away from the eye, and stunning private beaches.

For a more laid back atmosphere, and a fun vacation, head to Quequen, home to dreadlocks, paragliders and party-goers. With wide beaches and consistent wind, this sleepy beach town is a paradise for surfers, and even boasts a great surfing school for the beginners among you. Relax sipping on a cocktail and enjoying fresh fish at the restaurants located directly on the beach. Make sure to stop by “Jamming”, a hostel also serving as the only nightlife destination in town.

For those who want to avoid tourists and enjoy nature at its wildest, Pehuen Co is the destination. This spot filled with natural, untouched beaches is ideal for adventure travelers. You are unlikely to cross anyone’s path as you relax on the beach. Be aware that accommodations and facilities are sparse in the area, so come prepared.

For more information on Argentina’s excellent beach scene and for other Argentina travel opportunities, contact one of our knowledgeable Argentina travel advisors.

It appears Kristina has a true natural eye for taking amazing photographs, as she says she has never taken any photography classes, and was only using a small digital camera when she took this magical picture of Mount Fitz Roy, in Argentina’s Patagonia.

Ever since she started traveling around the world, Kristina has always carried a camera with her to ensure that she brought back many photos from her trips. Although she enjoys taking pictures, and wishes to learn more about photography, Kristina reminds us, rightly, that it’s all about enjoying yourself: “I was camping there, and I had such a great time. This picture is more about the memories of these moments.”

Still, we asked her for tips on how to take a good photo. According to Kristina, the light is generally what makes all the difference, and you should always have your camera ready for the special moments when the sun’s rays hit just right. Landscapes are also generally easier to photograph than other things, Kristina says, and they can make the best pictures simply because they are so beautiful to begin with.

Since her trip to Argentina, Kristina has invested in a more professional camera, a reflex camera, and is thinking of taking classes to learn some techniques to take truly great pictures—although all of us at Latin America For Less think she’s already doing a fantastic job.

When asked how she manages to take such spectacular pictures, Kristina, very modestly, tells us: “I guess I was just lucky. It’s just such a beautiful place that it would be hard to take a bad picture.”

Patagonia, with its infinite glacial landscapes and majestic mountains covered with snow, is probably one of the most beautiful destinations in Latin America. It’s certainly Kristina’s favorite, as she has spent months traveling all over this region in Argentina. Trekking on gigantic glaciers, sailing across icy lakes, and hiking up dizzying mountains is an experience you are unlikely to ever forget, she says.

We couldn’t resist showing you one more of Kristina’s photos of this truly superb region. This photo, with the mountains silhouetted against a striking sky, is her favorite, and we hope it leaves you speechless with its beauty, just like it did for us.

To discover the magical landscapes of Argentina’s Patagonian region and practice your photography skills, contact Kristina or any of our other expert travel advisors and ask about a Patagonia tour.

To the untrained eye, Mendoza may seem like an unlikely location for world-class wine production. The neighboring Andes throw a massive rain shadow across the valley, resulting in an average of only 200 millimeters of rainfall a year. But thanks to the indigenous Huarpe culture and their complex irrigation system, what was once a desert is now a bountiful agricultural oasis.

Mendoza Vineyard

The ancient system of rationing snowmelt water with channels and miniature flood-control gates, as well as the system of flood irrigation, are still widely used today. The high altitude and strong sun create the ideal climate for producing the coveted grapes that become full bodied wines. Viticulturists and wine connoisseurs travel to Mendoza not only to taste the wines, but also to learn about and participate in  the region’s rich history.

Colonization brought to Argentina the Catholic Church and its demands for Holy Communion ingredients, which of course include wine. So in the 1550s, priests began planting the Criolla Grande vine to ensure a local supply of naturally fermented communion wine. Today, Criolla Grande accounts for a third of Argentina’s grapes, though they are now primarily used to produce low to medium quality table wines for domestic consumption.

A later flood of Spanish and Italian immigrants in the 19th century brought with them the higher-quality Old World grapes. It is thanks to these drink-loving settlers that Argentina today boasts a large quantity of varied and distinguished wines, such as Malbecs, Bonardas, and Cabernet Sauvignons.

Presently, Mendoza has about 1,000 vineyards that produce over 80% of all Argentine wine.  Drink flows year-round in this high-altitude paradise, but one of the best times to take an Argentina wine tour is during the La Vendimia Festival—the wine and grape festival, which in Mendoza lasts from February through March.

Vendimia was first celebrated in the 17th century to commemorate the local wine harvest and made an official event in 1936. Now, the biggest show is saved for the first weekend of March when the city overflows with parades, street fairs, and the election of a Harvest Queen, La Reina de la Vendemia.

Liven up your Argentina vacation by attending some of Vendimia’s diverse harvest celebrations, making a special point to see the traditional blessing of the grapes by Mendoza’s Archbishop. However, if you plan to visit another time of the year, a great way to experience Argentina’s wine region is to take a Mendoza tour for a tasty mix of history, viniculture, and fun.

For more information on planning a Mendoza wine tour contact an Argentina For Less travel advisor.

Amazon, Brazil: The United Nations have declared 2011 the International Year of the Forest. Sounds like the perfect time to hug a tree. As global warming and deforestation continues, the chances to spot fascinating wildlife in the rainforest become smaller so hurry to the beautiful region before it is too late.

Iguazu Falls, Argentina: This force of nature is made up of 275 separate cascades which thunder over basalt rock down 250 feet. Be splashed by the powerful cascade’s mist at this unforgettable sight. Iguazu Falls are set on the border of Argentina, Brazil, and Paraguay so you can easily make it to at least three countries before the apocalypse.

Iguazu Falls

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: As Charles Darwin did some 200 years ago, marvel at the creatures found nowhere else on earth. These rough and rocky isles are home to a wonderfully strange, abundant, and extraordinarily fearless wildlife.

Machu Picchu, Peru: Follow the path of the Incas into the Sacred Valley to the sun gate outside of Machu Picchu, or take the train through the cloud forests. In an almost impossible location high in the Andes, you can admire the mysterious and well preserved site. Machu Picchu survived the Spanish conquest, and it may not be a bad place to hide out in December 2012.

Machu Picchu

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia: The highest and largest salt lake in the world is at a dizzying altitude of 3,650 meters. Driving across it may be one of the most peculiar experiences around. If the bright blue skies contrasting with the white salt crust aren’t enough for you, visit the striking soda lakes. The red Laguna Colorada and the jade green Laguna Verde are located in a surreal desert landscape.

Easter Island, Chile: Nearly 2,500 miles west of Chile’s coast is one of the world’s most legendary sites. Easter Island is a nature and culture lover’s dream destination in the Pacific Ocean. Be amazed by the 20,000 archeological sites, rich culture of the Rapa Nui, volcanoes, marine wildlife, and white sand beaches.

Patagonia, Chile: In South America’s southern frontier, nature grows wild, barren, and beautiful. On this crowded planet it is strangely satisfying to encounter silence, large spaces, jagged peaks, and pristine waters. Get away from it all and enjoy the serenity of the spectacular infinite landscapes of Patagonia.

Torres del Paine in Patagonia

La Paz, Bolivia: Have your breath taken away by the highest capital city in the world. This city’s eccentric beauty sets it apart from other South American cities. Fly into the world’s highest commercial airport, golf at the highest golf course, and ski on the highest slope, just to say that you did.

Lake Titicaca, Peru: While you’re making your round of the “highest” destinations, be sure to hit up the highest navigable lake in the world. Shared by Peru and Bolivia, this shimmering blue lake is home to fascinating native communities living on floating reed islands in complete isolation from the rest of the world.

Buenos Aires, Argentina: The most attractive capital in South America, Buenos Aires is a bustling and cosmopolitan city with countless attractions and a unique atmosphere. Be transported in a whirl of thrills as you explore the buzzing capital of tango.

To start planning your Latin America travel adventure contact one of our expert travel advisors who can help customize your travel plans.

From August 13-31^st, the Dance World Championship and the Festival de Tango offer thrilling performances, exhibitions, classes, concerts, films, vintage radio shows, and just about everything else related to that sizzling and sensual dance, the tango – and many of the events are free.

Participating theaters include the 25 de Mayo, the Alvear, the De la Ribera, the Coliseo, the Luna Park, La Trastienda, the Recoleta Cultural Center, the Planetarium, and the Punto de Encuentro on Bartolome Mitre Street. Tickets are free and you can pick up one or two at the Casa de la Cultura on Avenida de Mayo.

Featured concerts and musicians include Rubén Blades and the Leopoldo Federico orchestra, set to play salsa on August 30 in Luna Park, plus Horacio Salgan and the Real Quintet.

Milongas, or ballrooms, all around the city will host couples eager to dance their way to the championship in the Tango Capital of the world. Between August 6-16, qualifying couples who make it through 10 rounds will make their way into the semifinals, to be held August 19-20. The winning round will be held on the 22 at Teatro del Colegio San Jose.

If you are planning a Buenos Aires tour after August, you are sure to find Porteñas and tango houses bustling with pairs of passionate dancers. The Esquina Carlos Gardel is an especially popular tango house located in the barrio of Abasto, where the famous singer Carlos Gardel spent much of his life. During a delicious Argentine dinner, you can watch tango dancers performing the dazzling dance.

Buenos Aires, the city that never sleeps

After breakfast in your Buenos Aires hotel you should head out to explore this huge city.

For a first time visitor, Buenos Aires can be overwhelming, as the city is packed with hundreds of excellent restaurants, dozens of museums, art galleries, and on-going exhibitions.

You should start by making your way to Plaza Mayo, which is where Casa Rosada and the Central Cathedral is located, and was the famous place where Eva Peron spoke to crowds before her death.

From Plaza Mayo you can head up Av. Diagonal Norte to Plaza de la Republic, which is graced by the grand Obelisk. Av. 9 de Julio, the largest avenue in the world, cuts through the heart of Buenos Aires.

By this time, you’re probably thinking about lunch. Nearly every street corner in Buenos Aires has a gourmet restaurant. If you walk up Av. Honduras towards Palermo Hollywood you will find plenty of terrific restaurants. Plaza Serrano, which is at Av. Serrano and Av. Honduras in Palermo, is a nice place to find somewhere to eat.

The trendy Palermo district is split in two by train tracks. The SoHo side is home to Buenos Aires’s young middle class. In Palermo Hollywood are Argentina’s movie and TV studios, as well as a number of smaller cafes and bars. Venturing over the train tracks is definitely recommended.

After lunch spend some time exploring the streets before you head off to the Museum of Latin American Art of Buenos Aires (MALBA)? on Av. Pres. Figueroa Alcorta. The museum houses an interesting collection of modern as well as pre-Columbian art.

Nearby is the Museo Evita (Av. Lafinur 2988) which is dedicated to the life of Eva Peron, who was immortalized in the movie Evita and was played by Madonna. The film shows what Argentina achieved in the post-war period to tackle poverty, fight inequality, and improve education, as well as the horrible story about what happened to the body of Eva after her death.

A short walk up the street with take you to Plaza Italia which is next to the Buenos Aires Zoo, which is open till late, especially in the summer months. You can spend time meandering the expansive park.

If you are looking to spend the night like a typical porteño, going out late and dancing you should head to Av. Cornel Niceto Vega and Av. Humbolt. Vega Avenue is lined with chic clubs open all night long. Av. Humbolt has a number of restaurants, a cinema, and a British/style pub.

If you happen to wake early after a late night out in the city and it is a Sunday morning, you should make your way to the street market in San Telmo (Av. Defensa) where they sell a range of market goods, food, and what San Telmo is famous for, antiques.

The area of San Telmo is very artsy, with the main plaza in San Telmo having tango and dance shows put on by locals every week. The plaza is also a good place to find something to eat and a small bar to listen to some live jazz.

After exploring the streets around San Telmo, you should make your way over to the residential area of Recoleta.

Recoleta is home to the famous Recoleta Cemetery, the resting place of the Argentine high society. Some of the graves are more like monuments and it is worth having a look around.

From the cemetery you can walk to the nearby chapel and then down to the Recoleta Design Center which is more like a mall, selling the very latest in fashions from Argentina and the world.

There are some great lunch spots around here, just see what you can find. But for a quick lunch, you can pick up an Argentine empanada, a meat-filled sandwich available on nearly every street corner for only a few pesos.

You can then walk down to the Museo Nacional de Bella Artes (Av. Libertador), the museum of fine arts in Buenos Aires.

No trip to Buenos Aires would be complete without exploring the stuff that runs through the blood of every Argentine – a passion for soccer.

When the Boca Juniors play in La Bombadero stadium, the city stops and everyone’s attention centers on the game. The stadium, located in the district of La Boca, also has a museum that tells the history of the team and its famous Buenos Aires players.

You can then head down the waterfront in La Boca to see the colorful houses that line the streets. La Boca is a typical ‘working class’ area of Buenos Aires and was home to waves of early immigrants to the city, a very interesting place.

Some final places to make sure you visit if you somehow find the time is the new Puerto Madero development, the newest part of the city, which backs onto the banks of the river and the Buenos Aires ecological reserve.

Also you should visit the area around Retiro station, with the grand clock tower ‘Torre de los Ingleses’ which contrary to recent Argentine British relations, was donated by the British government to commemorate the Argentine May Independence revolution and the closeness between the two nations at the start of the 20^th century.

Buenos Aires is a huge city that even residents have not fully explored. 48 hours is not enough to see it all, but you can always try!