Argentina

🎒 How to travel in Argentina

There are several ways to get around within Argentina, depending on your budget, time and destination. Here are some of the most common modes of transportation: - Domestic flights: Argentina has a vast territory, and traveling from one region to another can take a lot of time by land. Domestic flights are thus a popular and convenient option to cover long distances quickly. There are several airlines operating within the country, such as Aerolineas Argentinas, Latam, and Flybondi. - Buses: If you have more time on your hands and want to explore the country's landscape, taking a bus can be a good option. Argentina has a well-developed bus network, with comfortable coaches connecting most cities and towns. The prices vary, but some companies offer luxury buses with full beds, meals, and entertainment. - Trains: Although the train system in Argentina is not as extensive as the bus network, it can be a good option if you want to travel shorter distances. There are tourist trains connecting popular destinations, such as the Tren a las Nubes in Salta or the Train of the End of the World in Ushuaia. - Taxis and remises: Taxis are widely available in Argentine cities, and they can be a convenient way to get around if you don't want to deal with public transportation. However, keep in mind that some taxis don't have meters, so you need to agree on the price before getting in. Remises are private cars or vans that you can hire for a specific route or time. - Rental cars: If you prefer to have more autonomy and flexibility during your trip, renting a car can be a good option. However, keep in mind that traffic can be chaotic in some cities, and the roads can be challenging in some regions, such as Patagonia. - Bikes: Finally, if you want to explore a city or a rural area at your own pace, renting a bike can be a fun and eco-friendly option. Some cities, such as Buenos Aires, have bike lanes and rental stations scattered throughout the city.

💸 Currency in Argentina

The local currency in Argentina is the Argentine peso (ARS). You can exchange money at:

  • Banks and exchange houses (casas de cambio) located in tourist areas and major cities
  • Airports and some hotels may also offer currency exchange services, but they may charge higher fees and offer less favorable exchange rates
  • ATMs that are widely available throughout the country. However, it's important to check with your bank about any fees associated with using foreign ATMs, as well as to inform them about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card being blocked

🙏 What are some cultural etiquette and customs in Argentina?

  • When meeting someone for the first time, a handshake is the standard greeting.
  • Dress code is usually smart casual, but more formal attire is expected in business settings.
  • Argentinians tend to be very expressive and touchy, so don't be surprised if someone you just met hugs or kisses you on the cheek.
  • Being on time is polite, but it's also common for social events and meetings to start anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour late.
  • Tipping is expected in most places, including restaurants, bars, and taxis. It's customary to leave 10-20% of the total bill as a tip.
  • Meals are a significant part of Argentine culture, and it's common for dinner to be served late at night, starting around 9 pm.
  • Football (soccer) is a passion for many Argentinians, so it's a good conversation topic if you want to connect with locals.
  • Intellectual conversations are highly valued in Argentina, so try to engage in discussions about art, literature, politics, or other cultural topics.