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BUENOS AIRES- FAQ

How do I get from the airport to my hotel?

Buenos Aires is served by Ministro Pistarini International Airport (IATA code EZE) which is located 14 miles southwest of Buenos Aires the capital city of Argentina. It is the country's largest international airport by number of passengers handled - about 85% of international traffic. When you arrive at the Ezeiza International Airport, make sure to avoid any problems by booking a cab with an official taxi company such Taxi Ezeiza. The Taxi Ezeiza booth is inside the airport, directly opposite arrivals, and your cab is booked and paid for before leaving the terminal building. Approach the booth and give them the address where you are staying, then you can either choose to pay ahead of time or at the end of your journey, but the rate will definitely be a fixed price. With Taxi Ezeiza, a cab should cost about AR$400 (between US$30 and USD$48).

How do I get around in Buenos Aires?

The Metro (subte) is the fastest and least expensive way to get around in Buenos Aires. Six lines connect commercial, tourist, and residential areas in the city Monday through Saturday from 5 am to 11 pm, and on Sunday and holidays from 8 am to 11 pm. The flat fare is 1.10 pesos one way. The streets of Buenos Aires are swarming with taxis. Fares are generally low, with an initial meter reading of 5.80 pesos, increasing 58 centavos every 200m (656 ft.) or each minute. (A 20% higher rate goes into effect at night.) Most of the taxi rides the average tourist will be taking will cost $3 to $10. Buenos Aires has about 140 bus lines that run 24 hours a day. The fare is 1.10 pesos and up, depending on the distance you're traveling. You'll pay your fare inside the bus at an electronic ticket machine that accepts only coins and provides change. You'll probably find yourself walking more than you planned in this pedestrian-friendly city. Most of the center is small enough to navigate on foot, and you can connect to adjacent neighborhoods by taxi or the subte.

It's become easier than ever to get around Buenos Aires by bike. The city has an extensive system of protected bicycle routes that traverse many neighborhoods. Look for the map Red de Ciclovías Protegidas at tourism kiosks, or visit www.mejorenbici.gob.ar. Buenos Aires is not a place where you need a car. We don't advise that you drive yourself unless you're heading out of the city. If you must rent a car, contact one of the international rental companies at either airport or one of those listed below. Commuter trains, which run with great frequency and are very cheap, are not ideal for most tourists visiting Buenos Aires. However, the system can be useful for side trips from Buenos Aires, especially to the river island resort town of Tigre; La Plata, the capital of Buenos Aires province; and the beach resort of Mar del Plata.

Is it safe to walk in Buenos Aires?

Yes, Buenos Aires is a great place to get around by foot. Most of the center is small enough to navigate on foot, and you can connect to adjacent neighborhoods by taxi or the subte. Based on the Spanish colonial plan, the city is a wobbly grid expanding from the Plaza de Mayo, so you are not likely to get too lost. Plazas and parks all over the city offer wonderful places to rest, people-watch, and meet locals.

Is Buenos Aires dangerous? Are there any areas I should avoid?

Yes, Buenos Aires is a very safe area to visit. Like in any big city, some areas could be more dangerous than others. You're pretty safe in Puerto Madero, Recoleta, Belgrano or Palermo. But always look behind your back. La Boca could be more dangerous, visit it during daylight and avoid walking alone in desolated streets. Microcentro is safe during office hours but not so at night.Most of the crimes committed are petty and rarely violent. When walking around, keep your passport safely locked away in your hotel room. Pickpockets have been known to target tourists, so make sure your purses, bags, and wallets are close to your body at all times. Stay alert and contact the police immediately if you are the victim of a crime.

What are the customs for tipping in Argentina? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?

The currency of Argentina is the Argentine peso. US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for Argentine pesos upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the city.

I do not speak Spanish. Will many people speak English in Argentina?

No, Spanish is the official language of Argentina and a vast majority of Argentines speak Spanish as their first language. Other minor languages common to Argentina are English and Italian.

Are there any vaccination requirements to visit Argentina?

Yes, You should be up to date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. For the latest updates visit the CDC page https://www.cdc.gov/ on the internet.

Do I need a visa to visit Argentina?

Yes, a visa is required for entry into Argentina. U.S. citizens need a valid passport to enter Argentina. U.S. citizens with expired or damaged passports may not be allowed to enter and could be sent back to the United States at their own expense.

What kind of food is available in Argentina?

Argentina has more cattle than cattle than people and steakhouses (parillas) are legendary. The parilla is the name of the large iron grill on which the meat is barbecued. Barbecued beef such as bife de chorizo (sirloin), Ojo de bife (rib eye), and cuadril (rump) is best enjoyed with friends, laughter and wine.

Other Argentine favorites are the Empanadas con carne (fried or baked), Milanesa a la Napolitana (breaded and fried meat covered with tomato sauce, mozzarella and ham), Chimichurri (Argentine pesto used to marinate meat or as a dipping sauce), and Choripan (sausage). If you want to try something different, the Pacu fish is delicious as long as the human-like teeth don't unnerve you According to the National Geographic, Argentina is one of the 5 places in the world to have the best hilado (Ice cream). We suggest you try the dulce de leche or the tiramisu. Alfajor de Maicena (dulce de leche cookies) are another Argentine favorite. Malbec wine makes a great complement to every steak meal. If you're looking for something softer, Yerba Mate is the national drink of Argentina is a herb placed in a mate pot - it is a focal point for social gatherings.

Can I drink the water in Argentina?

No, the water is not drinkable in Argentina? We suggest that you carry bottled water with you. Most tourist areas will have bottled water available for purchase.