When you look at pictures of Buenos Aires, there is really no denying that it is the “Paris of the south”, it is quite fitting and the architecture does not lie. The Argentine capital and the most European city of South America is more than just great and vast buildings. It is a cosmopolitan city with a Latin American twist and if you are traveling to South America, it is a must-see place. If you are planning on visiting it, here are some things that you should know before landing in the beauty of a city:
1. Buenos Aires has two airports
When you land in Buenos Aires, you will probably be arriving at Ezeiza airport (EZE), since it serves international flights. However, if you are flying within Argentina, you will need to head to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery (AEP). This is an important thing if you have a connecting flight once you arrive. Also, the two airports are 41 kilometers from each other and the journey between the two can sometimes take more than two hours, especially in peak-hour traffic. Hence, you will need to plan your travel according to these things.
2. Stay for at least three days
This is not a place that you can see in one or two days, it deserves at least three days, if not even a week. There is a wide range of things that you can do, including parks to lounge in, museums to see, streets to explore, and more steak to eat than you can imagine. There are various things to do, so make sure that you stick around for a few days.
3. Transportation is quite cheap
Finding your way and getting around Buenos Aires is cheap and quite easy. Buses are available for most areas of the city and you will need a SUBE card that you can buy at all kiosks (grocery stores) or subte (the subway) ticket windows. Keep in mind that you cannot buy these tickets on the bus. Once you have purchased the card, you will be able to ride the buses, subway, or trains. Also, taxis are everywhere and if you want to stop one, simply raise your hand.
4. Bring cash with you
Argentina’s economy is in constant flow, hence, it is quite difficult to figure out where the peso is going. Prices will change almost daily and the rate of inflation is around 40 percent and sometimes even more. Although Argentina is quite affordable, you might be surprised when you see that some things are more than you have expected. Take some cash with you, US dollars or Euros and change it in Argentina. Also, bring large bills that do not have marks, creases, or tears.
5. Do not think that you know how to speak Spanish
Do you think that your Spanish classes in high school will be enough when you visit this city? Well, you should think again. According to Expanish, you could try great Spanish immersion programs that will help you learn Spanish in a fun and interesting way, as well as provide you with a deeper understanding of the language. Also, it is not a bad thing to know another language, who knows when it might come in handy.
6. Buenos Aires is ice cream heaven
You have probably never realized how much you needed ice cream until you try some in Buenos Aires. You will see an ice cream shop on every corner and they will be selling the most flavorsome and creamiest ice cream that you will probably ever have in your life.
Conclusion
There are so many beautiful things to see and do in Buenos Aires, so if you are planning a trip there, make sure that you do some digging and find the most interesting things to see and do.