Now That I’m in Buenos Aires, Where Do I Stay?
October 30th, 2006 by Arthur LeOnce you arrive in Buenos Aires airport, you’re going to want to know where to stay and how to
get there. (Hopefully you have this planned out before departing.) If you aren’t fluent in Spanish, getting around may be a little difficult, although most of the airport employees speak decent english. The first step will be to exchange your money into Pesos. Don’t be fooled and exchange your money at the first currency exchange booth you see in the baggage claim area, as just beyond those doors will be a bank that will give you much more competitive rates. The bank’s rates can be more than 25% in your favor as opposed to the tourist trap that many travelers fall into. (To get up to date exchange rates prior to travelling, visit our homepage) These currency exchange booths are located everywhere throughout the city and can be tracked down by the large signs that read “Cambio”. Once you exchange your money, you’re ready to catch a cab to your hotel. The airport will offer several different transportation companies that will take tourists to their final destination. Make sure you use one of these airport services if this is your first time visiting as they are generally safer than trying to catch your own cab.
Now where are you staying? Buenos Aires is divided into several different “barrios” or neighborhoods, each with their own distinct personality and history. Downtown Buenos Aires is located geographically in the center of the city and has a lot of traffic during working days as professionals and tourists flood the streets. If you’re looking for a “Times Square” equivalent to New York, then Downtown is where you should stay. Home to 9 de Julio Avenue, the world’s widest avenue, and Florida and Lavalle streets, the city’s pedistrian only streets filled with shops, bars, and restaurants, there is always something to do. 3-4 star hotels in downtown will cost you anywhere from $50-$100/night. If you have have a larger budget to spend on your trip, then you may consider staying in Peurto Madero. Peurto Madero is BA’s newest architectual development. Located on a river strip that used to be filled with old docks, this area is now home to the city’s most exquisite dining and luxurious hotels. A stay at the Sheraton or Hilton hotels will run $250-$350/night. For those who are looking to get away from the main areas of the city, Palermo or Recoleta offer a great alternative. Palermo is one of the most traditional neighborhoods in BA, centered around the arts and theatre and home to the city’s artistic movement of the mid 1940s. Being more of a residential neighborhood, finding a variety of hotels in Recoleta may pose a bit of a challenge. Recoleta is one of the most elegant and sought after zones in all of BA. The area is distinct for having large green spaces offered from the abundance of public parks and the French inspired architecture. While peaceful and quiet during the day, Recoleta has an extensive selection of nightlife. The area contains many bars, restaurants and night clubs well suited for any traveler’s taste.
Reservations for your hotel can be made from any major travel website (such as Expedia or Travelocity), or by booking through your local travel agent. Just because you decide to stay in one neighborhood doesn’t mean that you are restricted to that area. A taxi cab can easily be waved down at any hour of the day and travel from one barrio to another shouldn’t cost more than a few US Dollars.
Posted: October 30th, 2006 under Accomodation, South America.
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