Buenos Aires
Translated from the Spanish for “Good Air”, Buenos Aires is often called the "'Paris of the South" but Buenos Aires beats to a distinctly Latin pulse like no other and as such a visit here most certainly does not disappoint.
This is a large capital city (16-million people live in the greater Buenos Aires region) influenced architecturally by its European historic past and its contemporary Latin American sprawl. "'BA" in the late 1940's and early 50’s was the capital of one of the world's
wealthiest nations. Its French, Italian and Spanish influence is instantly recognisable in classic buildings, graceful plazas and laid back, embracingly easy cultural life. All attributes that are the envy of most Old-World cities. The major daytime attractions, bustling nightlife spots, epic restaurants and range of Arts are concentrated in its downtown central neighbourhoods but Recoleta, Puerto Madero, Palermo, La Boca and San Telmo are certainly areas that you will want to explore.
La Boca and Caminito are old Buenos Aires, La Boca being where the first immigrants from Europe on sailing ships landed. San Telmo, more recently is reincarnated and ideal for a sumptuous steak dinner with a collective of café culture tango shows, to truly world class tango embellished with exquisite folkloric musical performances that would raise the roof in London's West End or New York’s Broadway. Avenida Corrientes 'never sleeps' as artsy auditorium after auditorium beckon with flashing lights and wondrous nightly shows.
Buenos Aires is an insomniac - a city that never sleeps and with it’s arts, gastronomy and culture, very few if any places on earth come remotely close to matching it.
Highlights
The numerous and distinctly different city neighbourhoods - Each of BA’s city suburbs are equally worth a visit. They are each in their own special way, wonderfully interesting and give you a clear insight into the mix of cultures and traditions within the city. Whether it is the history of the Italian immigrants of La Boca, the artisan markets and impromptu tango shows of San Telmo, the old-money elegance of Recoleta, the boutique shopping Palermo or the regeneration and eco-sights of a walk though Puerto Madero, they are all definitely worth an explore.
Tigre - A short journey outside of the city, is the river market town of Tigre. A beautiful settlement built in and on the islands of the River Plate delta. River boats and water taxis are as common as trains and buses and you can explore the waterways of this incredibly important trading post which dates back to the 17th century.
Teatro Colon Opera House - The timeless and acoustically perfect Teatro Colon keeps secrets in every corner. Living the experience of a guided tour is getting to know a portion of centennial history at the very cultural center of Argentina’s artistic culture. By exploring the Main Concert Hall, the “Widows” section under the main stage in front of the orchestra pit, the ornate marble embellished foyer, the Bustos gallery and the Golden Hall, visitors can absorb some incredible sights. The entrance Foyer with its important double-height entrance hall of different rich marble colours, crowned by French stained glass really is a sight to be seen.
El Zanjon Tunnels & Mystery - A privately guided excursion into the underground origins of Buenos Aires. A magical space where poetry, history and myth coexist. The most important urban archaeology project in the city taking those who are fascinated by the distant past into the restored labyrinths of tunnels and urban architecture origins of the first settlement of Buenos Aires dating back to 1536.
The Argentine Dining Experience - Learn how to prepare and close your own empanada using the 'repulgue' technique; how to order steak prepared the best of Argentine ways that any waiter (moso) can understand, as well as to prepare your own dessert platter and a 'mate' traditional Argentine herbal drink. Awaken your senses as you delve into the nuances of Argentina's world-renowned wines. Then, unlock your inner mixologist to learn how to make three wine-based cocktails, before being let loose to try your hand at making one (or three) for yourself. Eat a range of high-quality Argentinian dishes and laugh the night away making new friends. This is a fantastic, interactive dining experience which for sure will be a huge highlight of your stay in Buenos Aires.
Tango - When in Buenos Aires, you simply have to attend one of the world famous tango shows. There are a range of experiences, which all differ in quality and authenticity. Allow one of our local experts to arrange it so we can guarantee you will have a fantastic time.
