5 Reasons You Should Visit Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires. Home of the tango. I’ve spent a total of a month’s time in this wonderful city. If you’ve never been, continue reading to see why should take a closer look at the Paris of South America.

Argentina has been going through a serious economic crisis for several years with inflation now at an all-time high. This certainly translates into difficulties and increased prices for locals. However, the country is in need of money coming in for which tourism can be a major player. The current exchange rate for 1 USD is approximately 23 Argentine Pesos, and over 27 Pesos for 1 Euro. You’ll definitely get a big bang for your buck. Here are the top 5 reasons I think you should visit Buenos Aires…

(1) Enjoy some classic tango

Tango is arguably one of the sexiest dances. You’ll find impromptu street dancers performing tango for tips on the streets… always entertaining. If you feel like giving it a try, you can go for a private lesson and get some one-on-one time with a professional dancer. Or you can check out one of the many milongas. Milongas are the local tango houses that are frequented by Porteños. They often offer group lessons before opening the floor up to the locals. I had a great time at La Viruta Tango Club (Armenia 1366 – Palermo). I don’t claim that I came back a pro, but I did have a great time learning the basics of the Argentine Tango.

Tango dancers on Calle Florida

(2) Buy some of the best leather products

I’ll admit I went a little crazy buying leather goods during my time here… but it’s hard not to get carried away. You can have a jacket custom-made at many shops. There are many styles on display, and after you’ve made your selection they will take your measurements and have your jacket ready in 24-48 hours. I had a great experience with both Uru Recoleta (Vicente Lopez 2132 – Recoleta) and The Leather Shop (Florida 736 – Centro). On Florida Street, you’ll find many shops selling locally-made wallets, purses, jackets, and shoes. Check out Maybe Leather Shop (Florida 851 – Centro) for some cute bags at great prices.

(3) Try wonderful local Malbec

Argentina is known for having the best wine outside of Europe. Mendoza is the wine region in Argentina, so if you’re able to extend your visit it’s worth looking into staying at a bodega. While in you’re in Buenos Aires, check out Trapiche Malbec which I thoroughly enjoyed even though I’m not generally a fan of red wine.

(4) Eat fantastic Argentine steak

Prepare yourself to eat some incredibly juicy steak. You can find all cuts of meat available at the best steakhouses. My favorite place for a special dinner is La Cabrera (Cabrera 5099 – Palermo). This is a popular place with the locals so reservations are a must – call ahead a few days in advance or reserve a table online. Another great spot to try is Parilla 1880 (Defensa 1665 – San Telmo).

(5) Feast on all things dulce de leche

Dulce de leche is a wonderfully sweet caramel-like confection that is ubiquitous throughout Argentina. It is one of the most popular sweets sold on in jars at supermarkets, served as an accompaniment to flan, made into ice cream, and used as a filling in delicious cookies.

Dulce de Leche Ice Cream with Chocolate Chips

Here are some of the best treats to try while you’re there:

Flan
Alfajores
Dulce de leche ice cream with chocolate chips
Churros filled with dulce de leche
Crepes filled with dulce de leche

I hope I’ve tempted you to start looking up flights to Buenos Aires. If you’ve been there already, let me know how your visit went in the comments below.