There’s a Good Air About Buenos Aires

If there’s one place I miss visiting, it’s Buenos Aires. But “Don’t cry for me Argentina”, I’ll be back soon!

Caminito is a famous street in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital, is unique because it was founded twice. The first time was in 1536 by a Spanish-led expedition. The Conquistadors arrived at the end of the harvest and were forced to leave due to lack of food and resistant indigenous warriors. The second founding was in 1580 and was more successful with the city then used as a port of trade. By the 18^th Century, the city was thriving.

Perhaps Buenos Aires’ most famous resident was Evita Peron the wife of President Juan and a tireless proponent of the country’s poor, known as the “shirtless ones”. This turbulent time after World War II gave Buenos Aires its character. Today, Buenos Aires is the largest city in Argentina with nearly a quarter of the country’s population living there.

Here are some cool things to see in “B.A.”:

Plaza de Mayo – The foundational site of Buenos Aires, this is where some of the city’s most memorable events have occurred. On the Eastern end of the square is Casa Rosada, the official office of the President of Argentina and a museum of former presidents.

Plaza de la Republica is located conveniently on one of the city’s main arteries, 9 de Julio, and is the home of the Obelisk of Buenos Aires which is reminiscent of the Washington Monument but less than half the height . The obelisk was constructed, however, in just 31 days in 1936 compared to its big sister in D.C. that required 36 years!

Palermo –This is the largest neighbourhood in Argentina’s capital. Its main attractions include the MALBA art museum, Parque Tres de Febrero, and Plaza Serrano.

San Telmo – This is the oldest neighbourhood in Buenos Aires. This area is recognizable by its colonial architecture and numerous historical sites such as the National History Museum, El Zanjón de Granados and many antique shops.

La Boca – This is an art district of Buenos Aires and has a large Italian influence. The lively streets are lined with colourful buildings and tango street performers.

Remember, it takes two to Tango

I can see why it is named Casa Rosada!

Here’s a Pro-Tip: While in the area check-out a partisian Boca Juniors game. La Boca is home to one of the continents largest football stadiums, La Bombonera Stadium.

Recoleta Cemetery – This is where Argentina’s most well-known citizens, including Eva Peron, are laid to rest. Evita’s crypt can be found under the name “Duarte”. The whole cemetery resembles a miniature city with its stone walkways and above-ground graves, similar to New Orleans.

Buenos Aires is known for its traditional Argentine beef. Some of the best traditional parrilla can be found in San Telmo restaurants, such as Lezama and El Desnivel. Empanadas, specifically chorizo empanadas, are another popular and delicious food choice. Some of the best places you’ll find them are Pizzeria Guerrin, Na Serapia, and La Cocina. For all-in-one history, coffee and beautiful architecture, stop by Café Tortoni. This café began in 1858 and is a common meeting place for artists and scholars from all over the world.

Traditional cut flank steak

There are two airports in Buenos Aires. Ezeiza International Airport is about a 40-minute drive from the city centre. The best ways to travel the city are via taxi or local bus. The taxi will be pricier but can take you exactly where you would like to be dropped off. Within the city, there are plenty of licensed taxis, hop-on/hop-off sightseeing buses and cycle lanes if you rent a bike. Ride-sharing services are also available.

A colourful bar to try colourful drinks

Here’s a Pro-Tip: The domestic airport, Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, is close to the city centre and a long way from the international airport, so make sure to double-check your departure.

If you are looking for a peaceful stay surrounded by beautiful architecture, Tango de Mayo Hotel in San Telmo or Casa Calma Hotel in the elegant neighbourhood of Recoleta are excellent. Casa Calma has a vertical garden wall and offers in-room yoga and massages. Mine Hotel Boutique in the heart of Palermo Soho is a bit pricier, but is the place to stay if you are looking to be near exciting nightlife.

Speaking of nightlife, Buenos Aires has some of the best! Crobar is a popular disco club where you can dance until sunrise. Speakeasies are also a favourite, with places like Florería Atlántico, a cocktail bar with a flower shop façade. Although, nightlife is not only about dancing and the underground bar scene. Argentina is known for their production of wines, including its iconic Malbec and Torrontes varieties. Oporto Almacen offers over 200 varieties of Argentine wine and is an excellent place to try several!

Here’s a final Pro-tip: Puerto Madero, situated along the Rio de la Plata, was once the industrial area of Buenos Aires. It has now been transformed into an entertainment area with a plethora of chic bars, cafes and restaurants. It is upscale and wonderful for relaxing on a warm evening .

There are a couple of Argentina favourites to make sure that you try. The first is  dulce de leche. This is a sweet, caramel-like filling that can be found in cakes and pastries and in my favourite, ice cream. The second is mate tea, the national beverage of Argentina. Make sure you try them both and take home the mate tea in its traditional calabash gourd.

I know you’ll love the fresh air of Buenos Aires. There is so much to do in this electrifying city, it truly never sleeps!

Love,

Isabella