(Photo by Xin Qiao)
Those in the city throughout January and February will be able to enjoy the benefits of Tour Gourmet Buenos Aires 2012 which www.restaurant.com.ar has organized to promote the local culinary options. Discounts of between 35-50% can be obtained and printed out from their website for the restaurants affiliated to the event. Additionaly, a 2*1 voucher can be obtained for the wine tasting courses offered at the Sheraton Hotel.
Monday
(Photo by orazal)
Head to the Carlos Gardel Museum to see the special Fileteado Digital exhibit, the classic decorative painting style of tango folklore reinterpreted by graphic designer, ilustrator and artist Pablo Hoffman. Jean Jaures 735, Abasto. 4964-2015.
In the evening don’t miss out on La Bomba del Tiempo, a percussion orchestra that has become one of the local absolute musts. Centro Cultural Konex, Sarmiento 3131, Abasto, 4864-3200.
Tuesday
Don’t miss the New Latin American art exhibit at the MALBA museum in Recoleta. Avenida Figueroa Alcorta 3415, Recoleta. 4808-6500. Thursday to Monday: 12.00 am to 8.00 pm. Wednesdays 12.00- 9.00 pm.
In the evening head to Notorious for some drinks and live swing music at 9.30PM by trio Fraga-Motta-Giunta. Callao 966, Palermo. 4813-6888.
Wednesday
(Photo by rouseandgeorge)
If your planning to visit the city center to see the obelisco, or to take a tour of the Colón Theatre, head to the Palacio de Aguas Corrientes (palace of running waters) on Cordoba Avenue and Riobamba first. Originally built as a disguise for a water tower meant to provide clean drinking water to the people after the 1877 outbreak of yellow fever, the stunning palace now works as Aguas Argentinas (the local water company) headquarters and also as a museum. Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-1pm. Riobamba 750 – 1° Piso. 6319-1104.
Later on stop by Rio Cafe for a relaxed chilled out atmosphere and great drinks. Honduras 4772, Palermo. Open 10pm-3am.
Thursday
(Photo by Roger Schultz)
Taking a helicopter to see Buenos Aires from above is a wonderful way to get a scenic view of the city whilst acquiring a sense of its dimensions and distribution. Helitours Buenos Aires offers 20-minute tours through Puerto Madero or La Boca, a 45-minute tour through the city center and its surroundings and a VIP 60 minute tour including outskirts of Buenos Aires such as Tigre and Pilar. Helitours BA are offered every day from Monday to Saturday from 10am-6pm. Contact: 4555-4973, info@helitourba.com.
Book your place for the Fierro Hotel’s Thursday wine tasting and sample some great Argentine wines, chosen by the president of the Argentine Sommelier Association Andres Rosberg and in-house Sommelier Martin Bruno. Tastings cost 25 USD per person and are limited to 7 people. Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220-6800.
Friday
(Photo by ::d::)
Take a tour of archeological relic El Zanjon de Granados. Its mysterious hallways and tunnels date back to the 1500’s and were discovered under layers of constructions from other historical periods. Tours from Mon-Fri from 11am-3pmm every hour. Also in El Zanjon is casa minima, the smallest house in the city, which can be toured at 4pm on Fridays. El Zanjon de Granados- Defensa 755, 4361-3002.
In the evening head for a special dinner at Unik, a newcomer to the Palermo scene which offers a combination of top quality gourmet dining and modern design. Soler 5231, Palermo. 4772-2230. info@unik.pro. Open: Lunch- Tue-Sat 12.30-3pm, Dinner: Mon-Sat 8.30pm-12pm.
Saturday and Sunday
(Photo by Gobierno de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires)
Argentine Films will be screened at 9pm at the drive in Cinema set up at the Palermo Rose Gardens for the summer weekends. Program available here.
On Sunday head to the Museo Historico Cornelio Saavedra where contemporary art activity Che Isadora will be held in the garden at 5.30pm and where a musical duet will offer a show at 6pm. Open Tue-Fri from 9am-6pm and Sat-Sun from 10am-8pm. Crisólogo Larralde 6309, Saavedera. 4572-0746. museosaavedra_ecultural@buenosaires.gob.ar
(Bread basket at HG Restaurant)
Hernán Gipponi Restaurant: Brunch at HG Restaurant is special, as many of our guests will testify to; it comes in steps and it’s not a fixed menu, so it’s full of surprises. Brunch kicks off with fresh juices and fruits, continuing with pastries and an assortment of bread, some form of eggs, and four more dishes; 2 salty and 2 sweet, in between an alcoholic shooter, and of course, coffee. Brunch is served every Sunday with previous reservation. Soler 5862, Palermo Hollywood. 3220-6800. info@hgrestaurant.com.ar. Find a full review with photos here.
Oui Oui: This popular French Bistro in the heart of Palermo is always full, whether for breakfast, lunch, or tea time. The reason for this is simple, they have great baked goods, a nice environment and a brunch ruled by delicious eggs in all their possible preparations. The pain au chocolat is quite a treat too and the whole Oui Oui brunch experience is available both on Saturdays and Sundays. 6068 Nicaragua, 4778 9614.
Magdalena’s Party: This popular venue serves American style breakfast with bacon, eggs, waffles, bagels, and pancakes as the menu stars. Expect to find maple syrup, drink great bloody Mary’s and brunch to the beat of funky music. Thames 1795 (esq. Costa Rica), Palermo. 4833.9127
Sirop Folie: Located in a charming alley in Recoleta, this French style resto and tea corner offers fantastic pastries and breads, cheeses, and eggs for brunch served both of Saturdays and Sundays. They also offer a 5-course brunch menu including very tasty tapas. Vincent Lopez 1661 Local 12, Tea Restaurant, Recoleta. 4813-5900.
Home Hotel: The home hotel is a great place for vegetarian brunchers as they serve special veggie options, as well as a delicious English breakfast. Plus on a really nice Saturday or Sunday you can sit out in their lovely garden and enjoy your brunch there. Honduras 5860, Palermo. 4778 1008. info@homebuenosaires.com
(Photo by jACK TWO. Nice Maradona detail on the left!)
Beer is not exactly what Argentina is known for, however on a hot summer day, a cold brew on a nice terrace is mandatory. If Quilmes doesn’t quite do it for you, then we suggest you try some of the following bars where draught, imported, and artisan beers can be found.
Gibraltar and Bangalore: If you’re looking for great draught beer, an even better environment, decent music, some curry and some spice, you will love both The Gibraltar in San Telmo and it’s sister Bangalore in Palermo! Go early if you want a table and enjoy either dinner or drinks in these all-time favorite pubs.
Geno Beer Bar: This beer bar in Palermo offers over 40 imported beers from around the world in a nice ambiance. They also serve deli sandwiches and a unique beer soup!
To try some Argentine artisan beer, Antares is the leading option. Antares is well known as they commercialize their beers around the country, and they host special activities including drinking games and the chance to watch the beer making process at their Buenos Aires venues. You can also taste some great Otro Mundo Argentine artisan beer at the Fierro hotel garden.
Other options in the city include the Dutch Van Koning in Cañitas which has a very good beer selection, and Irish pubs such as The Shamrock and Kilkenny, amongst others.
(Photo by Ferrari+…)
January
James Blunt- 14th January
U.K. singer and songwriter James Blunt will be playing at the Luna Park Stadium at 9.30pm. Tickets available here.
Mayer Hawthorne- 29th January
Mayer Hawthorne will be presenting his combination of retro soul sounds with rap on his How Do You Do tour at La Trastienda. Tickets here.
The Rapture – 30th January
The New York City dance-punk band will be staging an upbeat concert at Palermo Groove. Tickets here.
February
Selena Gomez- 9th February
Pop sensation Selena Gomez will be playing live at Estadio GEBA. Tickets here.
Alpha Blondy-10th February
The multilingual african reggae singer will be staging a show at the Luna Park. Tickets here.
Blues Festival-4th and 11th of February
The Summer Blues Festival will be taking place at La Trastienda this year with a focus on the harmonica. Tickets here.
March
Marc Anthony- 1st March
The renowned salsa and pop artist will be staging a show at Estadio Ferro. Tickets here.
Roger Waters -7, 9, 10, 12, 14, 15, 17 and 18th of March
The British legend that was once part of Pink Floyd will be back to the city and due to the outsold shows will be playing 8 dates at the River Plate Stadium! Tickets here.
Creedence Clearwater Revival -20th March
The famous 60´s and 70´s rock band will be playing for their loyal local fans at Estadio Luna Park. Tickets here.
Michael Bublé- 24th-25th March
The successful Canadian singer and actor will be staging a show at the Luna Park. Tickets here.
Caetano and Moreno Veloso- 27th March
Brazilian bossa nova king Caetano Veloso and his son Moreno Veloso will be staging a show at the Gran Rex. Tickets here.
April
The Quilmes Rock festival will be taking place in April featuring the following shows at the River Plate Stadium:
3rd of April- Foo Fighters, MGMT, Band of Horses, Crosses, Jauria.
4th of April- Foo Fighters, Arctic Monkeys, TV on the radio, Massacre.
Tickets available here.
Roxette -24th April
Once again the Swedish duo visit the country to satisfy the Roxette hungry Argie fans at the Luna Park. Tickets here.
May
Rosana – 17th of May
Spanish singer and songwriter Rosana will be presenting her new album “Buenos Dias Mundo” at the Gran Rex Theatre. Tickets here.
(Photo by Jocelyn Mandryk)
Buenos Aires Local Tours: Buenos Aires Local Tours are free tours of Palermo, Abasto, Congreso and Plaza de Mayo and are a great way to get to know the city and the public transport system! Jonathan, the friendly Englishman in charge, takes visitors to both city landmarks and to lesser-known charmers that are often overlooked, with the purpose of showing the unseen side of the city. The tour is by foot, public bus and subway so some coins are needed but other than that there is no cost (although a well deserved tip is welcome). The meeting point is the Garibaldi Statue in Plaza Italia at 11 am on Mondays through Saturdays. More information here.
San Telmo Art Walk: The San Telmo Art Walk is offered by Juanele every Tuesday and Thursday at 3pm and guides you through the who is who and what is what of these art-ridden streets. The three-hour walk includes a tour of both the street art and galleries. A great way to get to know the current Buenos Aires art scene whilst getting to know its charming old-style San Telmo neighborhood. More information here.
Foto Ruta: Professional photographer Jocelyn Mandryk (who took Fierro’s latest photographs) and her associate Becky Hayes have taken tourist photography to a whole new level on their Saturday Foto Ruta tours. What they propose is to get to know the city from another point of view, taking their travelers through off the beaten path locations and setting creative guidelines for the photographs so that they can explore the local colors and characters through the lens from a new perspective, finding what they normally wouldn’t on a typical tourist location. An added element is brought to the experience as the tour group gathers towards the end, sharing and discussing the pictures and different interpretations of the guidelines.
The Foto Ruta tour runs every Saturday from 2pm-6pm and costs 100 pesos. Upcoming locations are listed on the Foto Ruta webpage.
Graffiti Mundo: Aiming to promote the urban art scene in Buenos Aires, Graffitimundo offers off the beaten path tours of the city’s street art. Group tours, Bike tours and Private tours are available for those interested in learning more about these unique murals and the political and social context behind them. For those looking to get involved in the creative process itself they offer a great stencil workshop as well.
More information on Graffitimundo tours, workshops and local street artists here.
Argentina Polo Day: To really get to know Polo, and why not, play it, Argentina Polo Day have put together an excursion combining a taste of traditional foods and wines, relaxing and leisure by the pool and amidst nature, and of course horseback riding, polo lessons, polo matches and the chance to interact with some of the best local players and coaches.
Argentina Polo Day takes place in a countryside setting at just a 45-minute car ride away from Buenos Aires, and transportation can be arranged if needed. The tours run every day and must be booked in advance. More information here.
Cooking Tours with Teresita: Different cooking classes and food tours are offered in this bed and breakfast in the outskirts of the city. Whether its a short empanada lesson, a one day food tour or a chance to make asado you’re sure to enjoy this popular option, where you will be able to cook and sample delicious local food and wines. More information here.
The Man Tour: Landing Pad BA offers this exclusive tour for gentlemen in which the Caballito, Congreso and Belgrano neighborhoods are toured with special stops at a traditional barber for a hot lather and straight razor shave, at a hatter for a fitting using techniques and equipment from the 1920´s, and finally at a cigar bar for a complimentary drink and cigar. More information here.
Monday
(Photo by Andrea Schwartz)
Head to the Museo de Arte Español Enrique Larreta. This Spanish Art Museum decorated as a Spanish renaissance palace and surrounded by a unique Spanish Muslim garden, was the home of author Enrique Larreta. His extensive collection of sculptures, paintings and furniture mostly from the Renaissance and Baroque periods can be appreciated in this ornamented historical landmark and there is also a temporary exhibit on the Tree of Life being showcased. Juramento 2291, Belgrano, 4784-4040. Museum Opening Hours: Monday to Friday from 1pm-7pm. Saturday from 10am-8pm.
Also in the area is the Museo Historico Sarmiento, which showcases relics and memorabilia of Argentina’s 7th president Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, a very significant figure in the history of the country. Juramento 2180, Belgrano. 4781-2989. Museum Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 1pm-6pm, Sat-Sun 3pm-7pm
In the evening head to Jazz and Pop for some live music starting at 9.30pm. Paraná 340, Downtown. 4372-2302
Tuesday
(Photo by Julian Rod)
A special exhibit of records and music scores is being displayed at the Museo Casa Carlos Gardel until February. Jean Jaures 735, Abasto. 4964-2015.
Later on head to the Centro Cultural Konex for a unique experience of the senses at the Dialogo en la Oscuridad exhibit in which the audience is guided through a series of recreated situations, such as shopping or traveling in a boat, in total darkness. You can also stay for the after office and wine tasting in the dark afterwards. Opening hours from 5pm-10pm. Sarmiento 3131, Abasto. 4864-3200.
Wednesday
(Photo by Gobierno de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires)
After weeks of sunshine and hot hot weather the rain is finally forecasted to come on Wednesday. Some original rainy day activities are suggested here, otherwise head to the stunning Colón Theatre for a tour of the gorgeous premises. Cerrito 628, Downtown. 4378 7100
In the evening stop by the traditional cafe Los 36 Billares where you can play some pool matches and watch Valeria Cotado present her tango and folklore show at 9pm for 40 pesos. Av. De Mayo 1265, Downtown. 4381-5696
Thursday
(Photo by Gabriela Sellart)
One of the architectural landmarks of the city is the famous Palacio Barolo. Construction of this regal building full of references to poet Dante Alighieri began in 1919 for what was to be the tallest structure in Latin America. Guided tours are available Mondays and Thursdays from 4pm to 7pm and evening guided tours on Mondays and Wednesdays at 8pm and Thursdays at 8.30pm includes tasting of an awarded wine and a national delicacy. Av de Mayo 1370 9° P. Esc. 249/52. Tel/Fax: (54-11) 4381-1885. info@palaciobarolotours.com.ar
Book your place for the Fierro Hotel’s Thursday wine tasting and sample some great Argentine wines, chosen by the president of the Argentine Sommelier Association Andres Rosberg and in-house Sommelier Martin Bruno. Tastings cost 25 USD per person and are limited to 7 people. Soler 5862, Palermo. 3220-6800.
Friday
(Photo by blmurch)
Take a day trip to the local bakery, butcher shop and market where Teresita will show you all the traditional foods and ingredients. Afterwards go back to her home and learn to make empanadas before having a delicious gourmet 4-course meal with wine pairings! More on Teresita’s culinary tour here.
In the evening head to Centro Cultural Konex for the Plop party featuring theatrics, quirky entertainment and a lot of dancing! Sarmiento 3131, Almagro. 864-3200.
Saturday and Sunday
(Photo by jvc)
U.K. singer and songwriter James Blunt will be playing at the Luna Park Stadium this Saturday at 9.30pm. Tickets available here.
Feria de San Telmo: Don’t miss the famous antiques fair in San Telmo every Sunday at Plaza Dorrego on Defensa and Humberto 1.
(Photo by Gozalo Deniz)
In Argentina, on the 6th of January, the Christian Epiphany, which commemorates the visitation of the three wise men, or kings (Melchor, Gaspar and Balthazar) to baby Jesus is celebrated. The story says that the kings, who carried gifts of gold, incense and myrrh, followed the star of Bethlehem that would lead them to Jesus. Their visit represents the introduction of Christ to the world.
Just as the kings brought gifts to Jesus, it is believed by the local children that if they leave their shoes outside on the night of the 5th then the three kings will come by and leave presents for them too. It is also customary to leave grass and water out for their camels (which parents mischievously throw out during the night to make the illusion more believable). In the morning, children hurry to their shoes and open their gifts. In Spain, where the custom originated, children who had misbehaved would receive coal instead of presents.
(Photo by From Argentina With Love)
It is also customary to eat rosca de Reyes on this day, which symbolizes the crown on the three wise men’s head. The rosca de Reyes is a pastry, originally from Spain, filled with dry fruits and custard. In some countries it is customary to fill the rosca with small figurines of the Virgin Mary and baby Christ for the children to find.
A rosca recipe is available here.
(Photo by ulterior epicure)
L’Orangerie: The lavish Hotel Alvear restaurant is a Buenos Aires classic for fancy tartlets and tea served in china cups. Open in the afternoon from 4.30pm-7pm. Alvear, Av. 1891, Recoleta. 4808-2100
Las Violetas: An assortment of cakes, sweets and sandwiches are served in this stunning traditional teahouse in the Almagro neighborhood. Golden chandeliers, Italian marble floors, and stained glass windows decorate Las Violetas, a unique place to indulge your sweet tooth. Av. Rivadavia 3899, Abasto. 4958-7387
Chez Pauline: This French style teahouse has a unique variety of tea blends and French pastries. They also offer mate tastings with information about the history and legends related to this typical Argentine beverage, and tea tastings. Juncal 1695, Recoleta. 4816 9988
Nucha: Nucha’s enterprise began many years ago, when she decided to commercialize her cakes, first offering them door to door to cafe’s, then selling them from her garage to her neighbors and now, experimenting with baking techniques to satisfy the demands of their 8 tea houses around the city.
Croque Madame: Set in the stunning Museum of Decorative Art, this cafe and restaurant is a great place to stop for some baked goods and quality tea and coffee. The garden setting and the impressive architecture make for more than just a culinary experience. Avenida del Libertador 1902 I T: (011) 4806-8639
Come the summer and porteños flee the city for the annual beach season. During December the first vacationers start to arrive and by New Years the beaches are crowding until they peak in January. The beaches quiet down a bit in February, as do prices and by March the crowds have disappeared and scattered visitors remain, taking advantage of the last days of summer, the bargains and the solitary shores.
So where are the most popular and nicest beaches for a quick escape? Read on.
In Argentina
For a crowded classic summer location: Mar del Plata
(Photo by sprain)
Founded in 1874, Mar del Plata is one of the oldest beach towns in the Buenos Aires province and a very popular destination. The seaside town gets incredibly crowded, so, it´s not the place to go for a quiet gettaway, however if you like beaches with bustling city options such as theatres, cafes, and shops then it may just be the place.
To go with a group of friends or family, enjoy the shade of pine forests: Pinamar, Cariló and Mar Azul
(Photo by GabbyAloe)
Pinamar (the largest and most crowded of the three), Cariló and Mar Azul are all along the same coast in the Buenos Aires province. There are also some in between towns on the coast such as Ostende, Valeria del Mar and Villa Gesel (this last one is popular but not so nice as the others). All of the towns are surrounded by small pine forests, have great sandy dunes and are popular beach destinations.
For colder waters and amazing wildlife- Puerto Madryn
(Photo by Mariano Fotos)
Puerto Madryn is to the south of Argentina in the province of Chubut. This popular destination is visited every year for its unique fauna, including whales, penguins and seals!
Other popular beaches in Argentina include Las Grutas, Necochea, and Miramar.
In Uruguay
For fashion, parties and celebrity sightings- Punta del Este.
(Photo by coolcopetins)
This upscale beach in Uruguay is the hottest vacationing spot for models, sports stars and other fashionable Argies who like to strut their stuff and party to the early dawn. Fashion shows, and of course intense parties are par for the course.
For a romantic getaway- Punta del Diablo
(Photo by Cleber Machado)
This small colorfull fisherman’s town in the Rocha district of Uruguay has beautiful beaches and great stretches of deserted shores to explore.
To get away from civilization- Cabo Polonio
(Photo by iAudioguide)
Cabo Polonio is an eco beach town where no cars are allowed and where there is no electricity. The beaches are amazingly beautiful and clean as are the eco houses built there. Due to the environmental preservation of the area the stars at nights can be seen brighter than in any other beach town and they also have a small group of sea lions living in the area.
Other popular beaches in Uruguay are La Paloma, La Pedrera and Piriapolis.
