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Great food, non-stop nightlife and lovely South American ladies are but a few of the reasons to visit Buenos Aires. We’re going to give you one more reason to go there: It’s dirt-cheap!
Cheap Sleeps
Food and lodging in Buenos Aires is so inexpensive, that even if the airfare is somewhat high, you might still be getting a better deal than some of the traditional Spring Break destinations. For example, at the Hostel Inn Buenos Aires, rooms are just $10 a night! They offer a complete breakfast, as well as free wifi and Internet access. If you would prefer a hotel, The Waldorf has rooms from $38 a night. The hotel is located near the famous Recoleta Cemetery, where Evita Peron is buried.
The Art Hotel in the Recoleta district of Buenos Aires is a boutique hotel in a 100-year old townhouse. The hotel has an art gallery, as well as a small café where breakfast, which is included in your room rate, is served. Breakfast consists of a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, yogurts and breads, as well as a unique type of hard-boiled egg, which is about the size of a cherry tomato. There is also a PC in the lobby, with free Internet access. Rates for a single, twin room are 85 pesos, which, at the current exchange rate, comes to about $27.50.
Exploring the City
Definitely visit the Recoleta district of Buenos Aires. The Recoleta Cemetery is home to some of the most famous leaders in Argentina’s history, such as Eva Peron. Each “grave” is actually the size of a small home. If you go on the weekend, there is a crafts fair outside the cemetery, where you can pick up inexpensive gifts for the GF.
Speaking of Eva Peron, if you are interested in that period of history, visit the Evita Museum, located at 2988 Lafinur Street in the Palermo neighborhood of Buenos Aires. You’ll find rare footage of her speeches, as well as interesting photos that depict the political career of Juan and Eva Peron.
For a unique view of Buenos Aires, pay a visit to La Boca. From the colorful houses, the murals and the tango dancers on the street, a visit to La Boca lets you know that you are truly in South America. In many ways, this is the best way to see tango dancing. For a small price, you can even dance with one of the ladies.
Cheap Eats
With the exception of the obvious tourist traps, it’s easy to find inexpensive places to eat in Buenos Aires. Although beef is the national specialty, contrary to rumor, it is possible to find non-beef items such as chicken and pizza. Keep in mind that South Americans tend to eat very late. Most restaurants stay open until 2:00 AM. The restaurant Cabaña las Lilas, located at Alicia Moreau de Justo 516, is probably the most popular restaurant for beefeaters. It’s always crowded, so get there as early as possible.
When you get tired of eating beef, and start craving some inexpensive seafood, check out Laurak Bat, a Basque restaurant that specializes in seafood. It is located at Av Belgrano 1144.
Side Trips to Iguazu Falls
If you have the time, visit Iguazu Falls. The falls actually mark the border between Argentina and Brazil. It’s possible to get a flight for under $100 from Buenos Aires to Iguazu. For information, check here. The Argentine side of Iguazu Falls allows you to look at each individual part of the falls, whereas the Brazilian side gives you a panoramic view. To visit the Brazilian side, you will need to purchase a visa. However, an Argentine taxi driver can also take you across the border without a visa. While this is a pretty standard practice, do this only at your own risk.
Don’t miss the hike that brings you to the raft ride through the falls. Although they supply raincoats, you will probably be so warm by the time that you get there; you will appreciate the blast of cold water. The word “Iguazu” is derived from the words “large” and “waters.” This is the understatement of the year! The falls are massive. Almost as fascinating as the falls is the hike through Iguazu National Park, where you’ll find a variety of interesting wildlife, such as monkey-like creatures called coati as well as multi–colored birds. The Hotel Saint George has rooms that include breakfast and dinner for under $100 a night.
Colonia
When the heat of Buenos Aires becomes oppressive, a day trip to Colonia, Uruguay is just what the doctor ordered. Fortunately, you can get there by a 40-minute boat ride, Buquebus even serves food, which is more than anyone can say about the airlines these days! Cool breezes, cobblestone streets and inexpensive crafts shops characterize the town of Colonia. Given its location, it’s also a great place for seafood.
Given the amount of time it takes to travel to Buenos Aires, you probably want to allow for a one-week vacation. Be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes, and carry a water bottle at all times. Have fun!
This article was originally published August 6, 2007 on DebonairMag.com. Reproduced with permission.
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