Argentina travel advice

Most visits to Argentina are trouble-free.

There are occasional outbreaks of social unrest, and tourists are advised to avoid demonstrations.

There is an underlying threat from international terrorism. Attacks, although unlikely, could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

The most frequent incidents of crime involve distraction theft, bag snatching and armed robberies in the street, in taxis and in restaurants. Distraction thefts commonly occur in public areas such as internet cafés, train and bus stations.

Keep a close eye on personal possessions and bags at all times. Con-men have been known to rob tourists while an accomplice pretends to help remove ketchup or mustard that has been 'accidentally' sprayed on them.

Another common occurrence is the slitting of handbags in crowded places. Be particularly attentive in popular tourist areas, such as San Telmo. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing ostentatious jewellery.

Kidnappings and so called 'express kidnappings' - short-term, opportunistic abductions, aimed at extracting cash from the victim - do occur in Argentina. Victims of express kidnapping are normally selected at random and held while criminals empty their bank accounts with their cash cards. Once the ransom is paid the victim is usually quickly released. It is also common for thefts to take place when withdrawing cash from ATMs. Be alert at all times. Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas at night.

There has been an increase in crime by taxi drivers. When travelling by taxi we advise that, whenever possible, you book in advance. If it is not possible to book in advance and you need to hail a taxi, you should take care only to hail a 'radio taxi'. The only noticeable difference between radio taxis and others is that they have a clearly visible company logo on the rear passenger doors of the vehicle. Avoid hailing any taxi that does not display a logo. If you are being met at the airport and you do not know your greeter, ensure you confirm their identity before accepting a lift. Alternatively use a "remise" service from the official stand in the centre of the arrivals concourse.

If you are robbed, inform the local police - a police report will be required by your insurers and by the Embassy if you need a new passport. In Buenos Aires, a 24-hour police helpline in English is available on telephone number 101, to help victims. There is also a new multi-lingual free phone number for tourist assistance: 0800 999 5000. This goes through to the Tourist Police Station.

This advice is based on information provided by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in the UK. It is correct at time of publishing. As the situation can change rapidly, visitors are advised to contact the following organisations for the latest travel advice:

British Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Tel: 0845 850 2829.
Website: www.fco.gov.uk

US Department of State
Website: www.state.gov