Buenos Aires Cruise Guide
The porteños ('people of the port'), as the residents of Buenos Aires are known, are descended from the first Spanish founders and Italian immigrants from the 19th century. Their culture is still alive in the city today in the countless art galleries, theatres and museums. But the city has also spawned its own art forms, notably the tango, for which Buenos Aires is famous.
Despite a huge economic divide and its crumbling colonial buildings, Buenos Aires oozes wealth and confidence and the city's elite still enjoy the high-life in its many plush shopping malls, classy restaurants and some of South America's best clubs.
Sightseeing
Although initially confusing, the city is based on a grid system that is soon easy to master. The main point of orientation is the Avenida 9 de Julio, the world's widest avenue. The main square, Plaza de Mayo with its grand colonial buildings, is a great starting point for sightseeing in Buenos Aires and is close to Calle Florida and Lavalle - the pedestrianised shopping areas.
Also nearby are La Recoleta Cemetery, Evita's final resting place, and Puerto Madero, a regeneration project beside the city's historic docks. South of the central area are the oldest parts of Buenos Aires, San Telmo and La Boca, while to the north lie the wealthier barrios of Retiro, Recoleta, Palermo and Belgrano.
Highlights
• La Boca barrio
• Dancing the Tango
• Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes (National Arts Museum)
• Walking in the Jardin Japones (Japanese Gardens)
• Museo Evita (Eva Perón Museum)
Tourist Information
Alicia Moreau De Justo 200, Dique 4, Puerto Madero, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Tel: +54 11 4315 4265.
Website: www.bue.gov.ar
Shopping
Where? Calle Florida, Galerias Pacifico, Patio Bullrich, Palermo Viejo, San Telmo Market.
What? Leatherwear, silver jewellery, designer clothes, ethnic arts and crafts, antiques, wine, pastries and cakes.
Eating Out
Buenos Aires specialities
• Dulce de Leche (sweet toffee).
• Steak.
• Maté (bitter tea).
• Empanada (pasties).
When To Go
Hotels
Getting There
By Water
By Rail
Avenida Ramos Mejia
Constitucion station
Calle General Hornos 11
Once station
Avenida Pueyrredon and Calle Bartolomé Mitre
By Air
Aut. Richieri S/N, CP 1802, Buenos Aires
Website: www.aa2000.com.ar
Transfer Times
Nearest Destination
Transfer Distance
Transfer Time
Key Facts
Region
Time Zone
Currency
Language
Location
Population
Government
Religion
Social Conventions
Tipping: Service charge is sometimes added in hotel restaurants but tipping is largely discretionary. It is normal to leave a 10% tip in restaurants and bars.
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