What You Need to Know

Question

How can I get the best price for my flight?

Answer

Argentina is far! If you're not seeing a good price, we suggest setting up a price alert or checking back on multiple days to see if prices have gone down. You can also look into flying into alternative cities, such as Santiago, and then taking a local airline into Mendoza. Another recommendation is to look into booking two separate flights for each leg of the trip. While more risky, you will frequently find that a round trip ticket to Miami or Houston and a separate round trip flight from that city to Buenos Aires will be substantially cheaper. If you do this option, make sure to leave yourself a large buffer in case of any delays!

Question

How should I pay for things in Argentina?

Answer

There are multiple exchange rates in Argentina, the "official" rate which will you get exchanging money in banks or using a credit card, and the "blue dollar" rate which will stretch your dollar much further. The difference is substantial! As of writing, the official rate is $147 vs. the blue dollar at $273. For this reason, we highly recommend cash over card. Bring USD in clean hundred dollar bills and we will help you exchange them upon arrival.

Question

Is Argentina safe?

Answer

Argentina is generally safe but we do suggest using caution like any other major city. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, flashing jewelry, or waving an iPhone around on the street. Utilize the safe in your hotel for passports and other valuables. Keep purses and other belongings on your lap when you sit down to eat. The most common crime is pickpocketing and purse snatching, so consider using a hidden money purse to reduce your chance of being a target. During the day, you can generally feel comfortable walking around touristy neighborhoods or the city center. Just be aware of your surroundings and use your best judgement for places that just feel off. We recommend utilizing taxis or Cabify (the Argentine equivalent of Uber) when traveling around at night.

Question

How should I get around?

Answer

During the day, both Buenos Aires and Mendoza are delightful to stroll! When walking, be very careful crossing streets and realize that cars do not always stop for pedestrians. At night or for longer distances, we recommend Cabify. Uber does exist in Buenos Aires but since the legality is a bit of a grey area, cars aren’t always in the best of conditions and you will be expected to sit in the front. Paying via credit card is available for Uber and Cabify but we suggest paying in cash anyway due to the exchange rate. For specific questions about travel in another destination, please reach out!

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

Argentina is generally a casual place, even in the capital city. March is Autumn in Argentina so expect warmer days and cooler nights. Many sidewalks are tile or cobblestone so it's recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes.

Question

Will I be able to get by if I don't speak Spanish?

Answer

In Buenos Aires, most people in tourist areas will speak some English. We do recommend learning some common phrases for getting around or ordering in restaurants. For some fun, consider learning some of the local lingo with a book like "Che Boludo: A Gringo's Guide to Understanding the Argentines." In other areas of Argentina, you should be able to get by with little Spanish in more popular tourist locations and restaurants. If you are traveling to a more remote area, people around you may not speak very much English. Download Google Translate for help in a pinch and please be patient.

Question

What's the tipping culture?

Answer

Generally tipping is not expected nearly as much as the United States. For sit down restaurants or cafes, we recommend tipping 10%. For bars, you can round up your order to the nearest 100 peso bill. It is not expected to tip hotel cleaning staff or taxi drivers, although no one will turn it down if you do!

Question

What airport will I be flying into and out of in Buenos Aires?

Answer

All international flights to and from Buenos Aires will go through Ezeiza International Airport (EZE). It is roughly 30 minutes outside of Buenos Aires city. You can grab an Uber or Cabify from the airport to your hotel. Your domestic flights will likely go through Aeroparque Internacional Jorge Newbery which is in Palermo. There are some smaller airports as well, so please be sure to double check your itinerary to make sure you're going to the right place!

Question

What are some other need to know items for traveling in Argentina?

Answer

Prepare to eat late! Many restaurants will not seat for dinner until 8-8:30pm at the earliest. Argentines typically eat dinner around 10pm. If you plan to engage in nightlife in Argentina, be aware that Argentines typically don't go to clubs until 2am and will stay until 6am. You will be able to enter the club earlier, but it will likely be pretty empty. Be watchful when walking on the street as some tiles may be slippery or missing. There is also a lot of dog poop so watch your step.