Blog Archives
Buenos Aires Rama Tours and Rama Food for IPhones
(Photo by reflectification)
Rama Tours is an iPhone app for travelers offering different city tours prepared by enthusiasts and connoisseurs. In 2010 the BBC picked it as one of the leading iPhone travel apps.
The tour on offer for Buenos Aires by Kate Stanworth is called ¨Heart of Buenos Aires¨ and is a great introduction to the city’s political and historical quarter centered arround Av.de Mayo.
Recently Rama also launched city food tours, and of course Buenos Aires had to be featured!
For breakfast and pastry lovers, Frank Almeida from Sugar&Spice (responsible for the delicious cookies at Fierro’s mini-bars) went on the quest for the best medialunas in town.
Dan Perlman from renowned closed door restaurant Casa Saltshaker was in charge of the San Telmo and Recoleta food tours featured in the app.
Finally Maria Carrá from BA Foodies prepared a tour of 5 recommended Palermo bars that due to their character have withstood the test of time as some of the neighborhood’s hottest go-to places.
The application, available from iTunes here, is a perfect way for gadget enthusiasts and people stopping for a short visit to get an overview of the city.
This Week in Buenos Aires
Monday
(Photo by Sebastián-Dario)
If you´re visiting the Recoleta area, stop by Centro Cultural Recoleta where Pablo Siquier murals are being displayed. Also in the area is La Biela Café, a lovely traditional spot to stop for a coffee break.
Of course you don´t want to miss out on tango dancing while you´re visiting Buenos Aires, so stop by Club Gricel where a milonga will be taking place from 8.30pm-4am. To ensure your safety we recommend organizing transport with the hotel. Rioja 1180, Constitución. infoclubgricel@gmail.com. 4957-7157
Tuesday
(Photo by luzologia)
Put on your galoshes because the forecast says rain! Our suggestion; head to one of the city´s many art museums and explore the rich cultural side of Buenos Aires.
Later on stop by Sugar and meet other fellow travelers at the Beerlingual Bilingual Trivia Night from 7pm-9pm. Costa Rica 4619¸ Palermo.
Another option is Ill Ballo del Mattone where you can catch some live acoustic guitar music by Jerónimo Guiraud at 8pm, and enjoy a wonderful plate of homemade pasta. Gorriti 5737 tel 47764247 reservas@ilballo.tv
Wednesday
(Photo by Sam Kelly)
Teresita´s Argentine barbeque and empanada cooking class is only on from November-April so don´t miss out on it! The class includes a trip to the butcher shop, a cooking demonstration, and a delicious meal paired with Argentine wines. From 11am-4pm. More information here.
In the evening Boca will be playing a football (soccer) match against Fluminense at the ‘bombonera’ (Boca Stadium). Go to Boca Experience to coordinate your visit to the stadium, the museum and the match.
Roger Waters, the British legend that was once part of Pink Floyd, will be playing 8 dates at the River Plate Stadium! Tickets here.
Thursday
(Photo by colros)
Luis Perlotti was a distinguished Argentine sculptor who dealt with native themes and indigenous imagery, as well as producing sculptures and monuments of local characters of the artistic and political scene. The museum showcases an ample selection of his works as well as displaying sculptures by other renowned Argentine artists. Pujol 644, Caballito. 4433-3396. Tuesday to Sunday from 11am-7pm.
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 henry0)
Head to the Planetarium where you can join the outdoor Parks and Monuments Tour (starting at 10.30am) or the Parks and Museums Tour (starting at 2.30pm), both done on electric bicycles. The tours last 2 hours each, cost 70 pesos, and are carried out in Spanish, Portuguese and English. Please note that you must be at the Planetarium 30 minutes before the tour with an ID to certify that you are 18 or older. Planetario Galileo Galillei-Av. Sarmiento and Belisario Roldán, Palermo.
Later on stop by Centro Cultural Konex for a unique experience in the dark. Dialogo en la Oscuridad is an international exhibit where the senses are rediscovered. The public is guided in absolute darkness through different scenarios and learns to perceive every day life in a different way. Open Tue-Sun 5pm-10pm. Sarmiento 3131, Abasto. 4864 3200.
Roger Waters, the British legend that was once part of Pink Floyd, will be playing 8 dates at the River Plate Stadium! Tickets here.
Saturday and Sunday
(Photo by brianjmatis)
On Saturday at 4pm head to the stunning Japanese gardens in Palermo to watch some sumo wrestling! Av. Figueroa Alcorta and Casares.
Roger Waters, the British legend that was once part of Pink Floyd, will be playing 8 dates at the River Plate Stadium! Tickets here.
The annual Tattoo show will be held throughout the weekend from 11am-11pm at the Bowen Hotel. Callao 360, Congreso. More information here.
5 Emblematic City Landmarks
Obelisco: This Buenos Aires icon at the center of the emblematic 9 de Julio avenue in the heart of the city is a well-known city landmark. It has been standing since 1936 and was built to celebrate the foundation of the city. The obelisk has since functioned as a meeting point to celebrate world-cup football wins, and to stage shows such as Julio Bocca’s last dance and a Placido Domingo live concert, amongst others. It is also often decorated to commemorate many occasions, such as the Bicentennial or the memorable 2005 world Aids day – in which it was covered by a giant condom!
(Photo by slaff)
Torre Monumental: The Palladian-style tower in front of Retiro train station was a gift to the city from the British to commemorate the centennial of the May Revolution. Initially, its name was Torre de los Ingleses, but the name was changed after the Falklands/Malvinas war. Still, it stands as one of the city’s signature monuments, displaying the Irish shamrock, the Welsh dragon, the Scottish thistle and the English rose.
(Photo by morrissey)
Monumento de los Españoles: This stunning monument on Sarmiento and Libertador avenues in Palermo was donated in 1910 by the local Spanish community to commemorate the May revolution, although due to many complications in its construction it wasn’t inaugurated until 1927. The bronze and marble monument, which is also called “La Magna Carta y las Cuatro Regiones Argentinas,” consists of a representation of the Pampas, the Andes, Chaco and Rio de La Plata regions on its base, and at the top of the monument, a statue of the Republic.
(Photo by InnerCore)
Puente de la Mujer: This beautiful modern bridge in Puerto Madero was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava and was inspired by tango dancers. Its unique and elegant design, which includes a complex rotational system to allow boats through, has made it famous worldwide.
(Photo by Christian Haugen)
Floralis Generica: Argentine architect Eduardo Catalano is responsible for the impressive steel and aluminum flower the heart of Recoleta. The sculpture, which closes its metal petals at night and reopens with the sunlight, is symbolic for rebirth and hope.
(Photo by matt.hintsa)
Buenos Aires Parks
Despite being a bustling city, Buenos Aires is surrounded by green and its many stunning parks, with important architectural landmarks, are popular amongst locals and tourists alike. Below we prepared a list of some of the most important parks in Buenos Aires.
Plaza San Martin: Retiro is one of the city’s focal points and the gorgeous Plaza San Martín clearly reminds any visitor or passer by of the importance of this neighborhood. The stately park, in front of the Torre Monumental, holds the Jose de San Martin monument and the Monumeno a los Caidos de Malvinas. It is also chock full of lush Ombu, Linden and Floss Silk trees, and is surrounded by important buildings with stunning architecture.
(Photo by sapiamaia)
Parque 3 de Feberero: The lush extensive parks that were inaugurated in 1852 by caudillo Juan Manuel de Rosas are a city emblem. Between Av. Libertador and Lugones, and extending from Av. Casares in Palermo to La Pampa in Belgrano, this group of parks is composed of 25 hectares made up of 15 public parks and 21 private sport clubs. Some of the highlights for those getting to know the city include the “Rosedal”, an extensive rose garden with an Andalusian patio and a small lake to pedal boat in, the Sivori museum of art, the planetarium and the Japanese gardens which host a variety of activities related to Japanese culture.
(Photo by Luis Araujo)
Jardín Botanico: This mysterious and charming botanical garden has over 500 plant species amongst which a large cat community lives. There are also some lovely statues, a botanical museum, and a library. This is a great place to walk though or sit in to read a Borges short story!
(Photo by wallygrom)
Plaza Francia and surrounding parks: many beautiful extensive parks surround Recoleta. The most known is Plaza Francia, next to the Cemetery, and where the artisans fair is put on weekends. Also in the area is Plaza Naciones Unidas where the impressive Floralis Generica is located, and Plaza Las Heras, amongst others bordering Av. Libertador and Figueroa Alcorta.
(Photo by guillermopaladino)
Parque Lezama: This famous park in the heart of San Telmo is easily recognized by the bright colored cupolas of the Russian Orthodox Church, which overlooks the parks tipa and jacaranda trees. Also surrounding the park is the historic Bar Britanico. The Pedro de Mendoza monument, a gazebo, a pergola and a sculpture garden complete the charm of this lovely green space.
(Photo by Matias Garabedian)
Parque Centenario: In the Caballito neighborhood, Parque Centenario is a popular meeting point for afternoon mates and live evening concerts at the parks amphitheatre. Also in the park are a swan lake and the Fountain of the Irupé Flower, sculpted by renowned sculptor Luis Perlotti. Surrounding the park is the Museum of Natural Sciences and an Astronomy observatory.
(Photo by PezMico)
5 O´Clock Tea in Buenos Aires
(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
Buenos Aires Photo
(Como un secreto se seduce a si mismo by Luis Gonzalez Palma. Photo from texas_Ivn_2000)
The Palais de Glace in Recoleta will be hosting the annual Buenos Aires Photo festival this weekend. The fair, which is the only one of its kind in Latin America will be showcasing collections from over thirty galleries from Argentina, Peru, Uruguay, Cuba, Venezuela, Spain, Chile, United States and Canad. The event will take place from the 27th-30th of October from 1pm-9pm and will cost a 30 peso entry fee.
This is a great opportunity to see Latin American photography and is just a few blocks away from the must-see Recoleta Cemetery as well as from the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes and the MALBA.
Posadas 1725, Recoleta
4804 1163
buenosairesphoto@artealdia.com
Info@buenosairesphoto.com
5 Outdoor Buenos Aires Attractions
(Photo by Denise Mayumi)
As the days get warmer and the sun shines bright, exploring the city out in the fresh air becomes more appealing. Fortunately, one of the great things about Buenos Aires is that despite being a gigantic urban labyrinth, its streets are lined with lush trees and there are plenty a park and a place to explore outdoors.
Parque 3 de Febrero: The lush extensive parks that were inaugurated in 1852 by caudillo Juan Manuel de Rosas are a city emblem. Between Av. Libertador and Lugones, and extending from Av. Casares in Palermo to La Pampa in Belgrano, this group of parks is composed of 25 hectares made up of 15 public parks and 21 private sport clubs. Some of the highlights for those getting to know the city include the “Rosedal”, an extensive rose garden with an Andalusian patio and a small lake to pedal boat in, the Sivori museum of art, the planetarium and the Japanese gardens which host a variety of activities related to Japanese culture.
Recoleta parks and Cemetery: The Recoleta Cemetery is one of the most famous attractions of Buenos Aires and for good reason. Great political figures, scientists, writers and other important characters of the city are buried in this cemetery full of stories of broken hearts, love and hate, friendship, obsession, loyalty and ghosts. The architecture of the vaults is also pretty spectacular which is why it’s a must visit. Other attractions in the area include very extensive and lovely parks, museums, architectural gems and the famous Floralis Generica monument.
Puerto Madero: Pierced by the river, this upscale area is lined with renovated warehouses that were turned into hip restaurants overlooking sailboats and bridges. Modern and upscale, it is a great place to walk through, and lunch in. The elegant Puente de la Mujer (woman’s bridge), and the Fragata de Libertad (a ship turned into a museum) are the main attractions of this carefully cared for area.
Reserva Ecológica: Behind Puerto Madero is a unique ecosystem that naturally emerged from deposits of rubble used for the construction of a highway in the 70s and 80s. It has become a great place for bird watching within minutes of the city, and also has the best views of the city’s skyline. Guided tours of the reserve are available on weekends from 10.30am-3.30pm and a monthly nocturnal visit is conducted which you must book a week in advance for. More information on nocturnal tour dates here.
Tigre: In the outskirts of the city, on the opposite side of town, is an island lined by small rivers and streams. The rugged location surrounded by nature offers a variety of attractions including canoeing, kayak and other excursions by boat, trekking, ecotourism, motorboat and commuter boats to take you to different places on the riverside, restaurants, spas, tea-houses, picnic sites, a naval museum, an art museum, a mate museum, a casino, a crafts fair and an amusement park. More information here.
Top 5 Restaurants in Recoleta
(Photo by ulterior epicure)
La Bourgogne- The city’s most distinguished French Restaurant, in the city’s most distinguished hotel, the Alvear Palace, offers one of the best, albeit pricy, dining options in Buenos Aires. Ayacucho 2027, Recoleta. 4808-2100.
Oviedo- This upscale Spanish restaurant is one of the top dining options the city has to offer. The fish is superb as is the lamb, the excellent wine list and service. The classic setting, the freshness of the ingredients and the savory cuisine make Oviedo an unquestionable top choice for gourmet dinning in Buenos Aires. Beruti 2606, Recoleta. 4821-3741.
Restó- Set in the local architects society, this intimate auteur restaurant is the favorite of many local chefs for its quality and innovative dishes. Edible flowers, exotic vegetables and recommended stuffed quail are all part of chef Guido Tassi´s flavorful repertoire. Montevideo 938, Recoleta. 4816-6711
Almacen de los Milagros- Maria Milagros Padilla and her associate Martin Baquero combine their knowledge of cuisines from Tucuman., Patagonia, Spain and France in this restaurant that is open as a cafe during the day and as a gourmet auteur restaurant at night. Quintana 210, Recoleta. 4814-0533.
El Cuartito- Considered by some to be the best pizzeria in the city, El Cuartito, which has been around since 1934 is undoubtedly legendary. Great for a quick on the go slice in a lively environment, or for a low budget meal, plus, you really shouldn’t leave Buenos Aires without trying the typical fugazzeta pizza and faina! Talcahuano 937, Recoleta. 4816-1758.
Buenos Aires Nightlife: Bar-Pub-Electro Club
(Photo by brokekid)
One of our favorite nightspots in the city, The Shamrock or Basement Club, in the heart of Recoleta, might appear to be the perfect place for a pint at first glance. However, and although ‘pinting’ is most definitely allowed, this is no ordinary pub as down the stairs, in the, you guessed it, basement, is a perfect sized electro club where some of the city’s best DJs make sure everyone dances to the break of dawn. The early opening hours, the great crowd of locals and tourists alike, the Thursday happy hour, and the blasting beats make The Shamrock one of our top picks for great party nights!
Rodriguez Peña 1220, Recoleta
4812-3584
Open from 6pm on weekdays and 8 pm Saturdays. Closed Sundays.
This Week in Buenos Aires
Monday
(Photo by Lucky B)
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.
In the evening, Erasure will be staging a live show at the Luna Park. Tickets available here.
Palacio Barolo
Av de Mayo 1370 9° P. Esc. 249/52
Tel/Fax: (54-11) 4381-1885
info@palaciobarolotours.com.ar
Tuesday
(Photo by casimira parabolica)
Take a trip down the historical A-line Subway and travel through time whilst stopping to visit some of the city’s emblematic spots such as the “Casa Rosada,” “ Cafe Tortoni” and Congress.
Also starting on Tuesday is the Tango Festival that will last until the 30th of August. More information here.
Bossa nova fans will love the Brazilian Jazz Night being held at the Velma Cafe at 9pm.
Gorriti 5520, Palermo Hollywood
4772-4690
Wednesday
(Photo by blmurch)
Explore the Tres de Febrero parks in Palermo. Between Av. Libertador and Lugones, and extending from Av. Casares in Palermo to La Pampa in Belgrano, this group of parks is composed of 25ha made up of 15 public parks and 21 private sport clubs and includes the “Rosedal”, an extensive rose garden, the Sivory Museum, the planetarium and the Japanese gardens.
In the evening head to the Decorative Arts Museum for a free concert of Argentine music at 7pm. Later on, the new “it” place, the Rio Cafe, is hosting their weekly Wednesday Rock in Rio.
Av.del Libertador 1902, Palermo
4801-8248
museo@mnad.org
Honduras 4772, Palermo
Open 10pm-3am
Thursday
(Photo by blue_heron_beauty)
Take advantage of the Tango Festival this week to visit to Tango Product Fair where you can get souvenirs and other unique memorabilia!
In the evening get to know more about the local wine industry at the weekly tastings in the Fierro Hotel.
Centro Municipal de Exposiciones
E. J. Couture 2231, Recoleta.
Soler 5862, Palermo
3220 6800
recepcion@fierrohotel.com
Friday
(Photo by Hannap)
The Puppet Museum in San Telmo has a beautiful collection of puppets from all over the world as well as a specialized library and an antique puppet theatre where shows are occasionally staged.
At 8pm renowned tango dancer Mario Morales will be presenting Troileana at the Teatro 25 de Mayo for the Tango Festival.
Museo del Titere (puppet museum)
Piedras 905, San Telmo
4307 6917
Open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays: 10am-12.30 and 3-6pm.
Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays: 3-6pm
Teatro 25 de Mayo
Av. Triunvirato 4444, Villa Urquiza.
4524-7997
Sat-Sun
(Photo by matthewvenn)
Experiment with your senses at the Centro Cultural Konex where the temporary exhibit “Dialogo en la Oscuridad” will guide you through a series of recreated situations, such as shopping or traveling in a boat, in total darkness. Sat-Sun 10am-5.30pm. Sarmiento 3131, Abasto. 4864-3200.
Head to the Japanese Gardens on Sunday where the Fire Ceremony will be taking place all day. Av. Figueroa Alcorta and Av. Casares
Later on, starting at 12 PM the funky Fiesta Bubamara party will be hosted at the Colegiales Theatre. Av. Lacroze 3455.
