Country Information
Argentina is world renowned for its stunning natural wonders, from the northern deserts to the southern Andean Cordillera, from Iguaçu Falls to the magnificent desolation of Patagonia. But did you know that its Capital, Buenos Aries is the most European city in the American Hemisphere. From its stunning architecture to its elegant cafés and boutiques, you most likely be in for quite a nice surprise. You may have read in the press about Argentina’s recent economic troubles, but in truth that makes your vacation there even more affordable. [top]
Language
Spanish is the main spoken language in Argentina; however, in large cities you will find that many Argentines are comfortable with English. Your personal bilingual assistant will help you navigate in times of need. [top]
Religion
93% Roman Catholic, 2.5% Protestant, 2% Jewish [top]
Climate
Argentina lies south of the equator, and so its seasons are opposite those in the Northern Hemisphere. This gives US citizens the possibility of enjoying 2 summers in the same year. December to February are the summer months and mid-June to late September are the winter months. January temperatures average about 80° F (27° C) in the north and about 60° F (16° C) in the far south. Average July temperatures range from 60° F (16° C) in the north to 32° F (0° C) in the south. [top]
Clothing
The clothing that you take depends on the date of your travel. Summers are warm and sunny, so shorts are a must. Occasionally it gets a bit cold during the night so it is advisable to bring a jacket. Winters are mild with some rains, but in Buenos Aires it does not snow. A windbreaker and scarf are enough. Just remember that Summers & Winters are the opposite of ours. [top]
Mobile Phones
A Subscriber Identity Module Card (SIM Card) is now available for India and foreign customers who are traveling around for work. The SIM Card must be used in conjunction with a Digital GSM mobile phone within the 900-MHz range or a Digital PCN mobile phone within the 1800-MHz range. [top]
Getting Online & Checking E-mail
Most hotels offer Broadband Internet connection. Cyber-cafés are widely spread throughout the city, usually every 3 to 4 blocks. [top]
Emergency Telephone Numbers
Your Personal Assistant’s phone number will be provided upon arrival in Argentina.
Tourist Police Station: 43 46 57 48
US Embassy in Argentina: 57 77 45 33 [top]
Activities in Buenos Aires
Advisory
Please be advised that you may not be able to participate in certain activities after receiving your medical treatment. (Tango dancing, for example, doesn't always go hand-in-hand with heart-surgery) Your doctor will be able to advise you on the appropriate activities in which you can participate. [top]
Buenos Aires Excitement
Tango Dancers, cobblestone streets, Paris-inspired boulevards, exhilarating nightlife, stylish boutiques, and open-air markets are just a few enlightening images that come to mind when one thinks of Buenos Aries. To be sure, there is much to see and experience in this romantic cosmopolitan city. Your Personal Bilingual Assistant will be able to assist you in planning your activities and sightseeing tours that fit your individual interests. Much of what you will be able to do will depend on your surgical procedure and the amount of time you need for recuperation and the amount of time you have planned to be in Argentina. [top]
Shopping
Buenos Aries is a global hot-spot for shopping. You will find everything from first-class shopping malls to open-air markets, and small boutiques. While you are there you will want to check out high-quality Argentine silver, gold, leather goods, and European fashion. Buenos Aries is also renowned for European antiques, which you won’t want to miss. [top]
Tango
Tango is the sensuous and passionate dance of Argentina. All Argentines know tango. You can experience the culture of Tango anywhere in Buenos Aries. Opening days and times of Tango halls change regularly so you will want to check before going. Your Personal Assistant will help direct you to Tango halls. Señor Tango (phone: 11/4303-0231) is considered one of the hottest Tango Halls in Buenos Aries. [top]
Exploring
Buenos Aries is a large sprawling city and many neighborhoods are best seen on foot. If you are a first time visitor, you will certainly want to explore the neighborhoods Plaza de Mayo, El Centro, San Telmo, La Boca, Palermos, and La Recolerta. Again, your Personal Assistant will be able to direct to areas that suit your personal taste. [top]
Nightlife And The Arts
Daily events, such as theaters and shows can be found in the English-language paper, Buenos Aries Herald. Buenos Aries has world-class Opera Houses and Classical Music Halls for your enjoyment as well. If you enjoy really opera, don’t miss Teatro Colón, which is a world renowned Opera House. [top]
Spas
Most of the luxury hotels contain spas and health facilities. In addition to the hotels, there are many places throughout Buenos Aries where you can indulge your body with Turkish baths, body peels, massage, hair treatment and a healthy meal. Just like in the US, you will need to make reservations, so make sure that you check with your Personal Assistant to help locate the perfect place. [top]