Things we learned:
Currency: Pesos (3.8 Pesos=$1 USD)
Cities Visited: Salta, Resistencia, Corrientes, Puerto Iguazu, Buenos Aires
Buses in Argentina are more expensive and are much like Peru’s in “luxury” services provided. In addition to raised ticket prices, you will be expected to tip/pay a fee to the man who puts your luggage on the bus.
Be prepared to inhale lots of smoke because many people smoke here.
Argentina has a lot of European influences and is a bit different from it’s South American neighbors.
Watch out for dog poop on sidewalks everywhere, especially in Buenos Aires.
Outside of Buenos Aires, expect businesses to honor the traditional “siesta” which means they close for several hours in the afternoon. Early dinners are not an option for restaurants and Sunday means everything is closed except maybe an occasional super pancho or milanesa stand.
You will need an electric plug adapter here.
Some Argentinians will tell you that their country is always in crisis and if it’s not, they’re waiting for the next crisis.
Argentinians are very proud of their tango, dulce de leche, and Evita. You will see these everywhere.
Service in Buenos Aires leaves a lot to be desired. Expect service people in shops and restaurants to be dismissive and even rude most of the time. Don’t worry, they do this to everyone.
Don’t go to the rose garden in Parque Tres de Febrero after dark, just don’t.
Summer break is between December and March. Finding couchsurfing hosts may be difficult during this time.
After Argentinian students graduate, their family and friends gather around and throw every imaginable food item on them (flour, eggs, chocolate sauce…you name it). The messier the better and new graduates embrace this tradition.
Things we liked:
Deenaree´s list…
- Food: Flan con crema
- Experience: Watching fireworks all around the city from the 10th floor balcony of our host´s apartment on Christmas Eve
- Something to remember: The food, the people, the neighborhoods, the pulse of Buenos Aires! We must return!
Ben´s list…
- Food: The oranges and the watermelons from the fruit stand in Palermo
- Experience: Standing on the boardwalk above the Devil’s Throat of Iguazu Falls
- Something(s) to remember: Crossing 9 de Julio, the widest avenue in the world, and trying to make it before the rush of cars
What happens in the dark at the rose garden in Parque Tres de Febrero??? Did you guys have a specific experience? or did you just hear about what happens?? …….creeeeeeeepy!
Your description of the celebrating the graduate reminds me of Dazed and Confused’s hazing (minus the beatings). That sounds fun. Should we do this to you for coming back home? ;)