Initially, expectations for Argentina were quite modest, but the actual experience turned out to be surprisingly delightful. Buenos Aires, often referred to as the “Little Paris of South America,” truly lives up to its nickname with its European-style architecture and rich cultural heritage. The level of English proficiency is relatively high, especially in the service industry, although it can still be a bit hit-or-miss—most Uber drivers, for instance, do not speak English.
However, the cost of living in Buenos Aires is now on par with many European cities, and the presence of homeless people on the streets is quite noticeable. During a five-hour stroll through the city, you might encounter more than five instances of unsolicited sales pitches or greetings. While South Americans are often described as warm and welcoming, as a tourist, these interactions can feel somewhat intrusive and unsettling.
It’s also wise to be cautious with your phone when out and about; the atmosphere here feels more tense compared to the relaxed vibe in Europe.
Visa fees: An e-visa costs $400, and although the rejection rate is said to be only 1%, rejections often come without a clear explanation. A 10-year paper visa is a more cost-effective option, but the application process is more cumbersome and requires an in-person interview.
Aerolíneas Argentinas can be somewhat unpredictable, with flight changes occurring at will, even within 240 minutes of departure.
If it weren’t for the necessity of passing through for a trip to Antarctica, I wouldn’t plan to return in the near future.
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