In this section, we give some useful advise to best enjoy your holidays in Argentina.

Some advise:

Drugs:

The Argentine laws are very strict regarding this. Only non treated cocoa leafs are accepted for medical purposes.

Everything, except military installations can be photographed. Film for cameras can be bought in all major cities. Some shops offer speed development.

Money:

Plenty of cash and a credit card should be enough to get you on your way. After the devaluation of the Peso it established itself as a fairly stabilised currency, the times of heavy inflation seem to be gone. However, there are masses of false money in circuit, also should notes be small sized, as change is hard to get. In many outlets it is possible to pay with credit card, dollars or euros. Abstain from traveller cheques as these are difficult to change.

Health:

The medical assistance in Buenos Aires is quite good, however, this can vary drastically in other regions, especially in the country side. Most pharmacies are well stocked and allegedly there are no dangerous diseases. To sum it up, general indispositions with diarrhoea and vomiting are mostly what might occur to you during your holiday. It is important to pay attention when reaching unusual heights and good take protection from the very strong sunrays. Another hazard may be insect bites, especially of mosquitos. Do get the necessary preventive medical treatment beforehand. Water from the tap is drinkable in most of the big towns, however, it is advisable to stick to bottled water.

Contacts:

The Argentinians seems to be an outgoing and well natured people, and especially in the countryside. Sometimes it may happen, that the foreign tourist is invited into a round of friends or family, to take part in the ritual Maté Tea gathering. Don’t expect any of this in big city Buenos Aires, which is very similar to most metropolises of the world where people tend to be more distant and prefer anonymity.

Time of travel:

May and September are the most popular seasons to travel to subtropical areas of Argentina. Patagonia and Tierra de Fuego are at their best from November to March. All other regions can be visited all year round.

Safety:

Argentina, though it is a country in South America, is a quite safe place to spend your holidays in. However, we would like to mention again that, in big cities you ought to beware of pick pocketers and thieves. Try not to look too touristy and keep all your essential belongings like money and documents directly on your body. Don’t walk the streets at night in unsavoury places and take only the official taxis, the so called Remis. In the country side however, the tendency of petty crime is virtually nil. Be careful when crossing the streets.

Electricity:

220 Volt are the current voltage, however the sockets are different. Best get an adapter once you are in Argentina, in order to be able to use your electrical appliances.

Toilets:

Public toilets are relatively clean here. They are installed in bus stations, shopping centres, restaurants, cafes etc.

Tips:

10 % of the total is the usual tipping amount in restaurants, hotels, cinemas and theatres.