Buenos Aires – An insight into cultural capital of South America

Buenos Aires, the vibrant capital city of Argentina, exudes flamboyance and modernity. It’s a city where millions of tourists descend every year to the lure and romanticism of the fabled Tango. There are other reasons as well why tourists keep flocking to this beautiful city in the southern hemisphere. The city’s diverse culture, cuisines, literature and architecture are among other key factors that are a big draw with the visitors from different parts of the world.

The vibrant metropolis of Buenos Aires has been a hub of Argentina’s industrial, financial and commercial activities. The city’s strategic location on the Rio de la Plata or River Plate’s shores, which is the world’s widest estuary, also makes it one of the largest cities in the world.

It will surely be the best thing to visit in this magnificent city, for your next vacation. Let us explore this cultural capital of South America and get mesmerized with this stunning unforgettable city. While planning your holidays here, do remember to spare plenty of time for yourself as the city offers many sightseeing opportunities and umpteen things to do.

Knowing all about Buenos Aires
Before you book your flights to Buenos Aires and start preparing for your sojourn, it would be a good idea to know about this city itself. This will not only acquaint you with the city but also make you aware about what all to see and do here. The best way to explore the city, know about its culture and lifestyle of its denizens is to set off on a walking or self-guided tour of the city for better familiarization.

Feel yourself at ease. The city is easy to navigate with its grid pattern. The city is sprawling. You will see expansive avenues and picturesque old-fashioned cobbled streets with leafy trees spanning the entire city. As you stroll down on to the streets of Buenos Aires, you will be fascinated with its modern skyscrapers harmoniously coexisting alongside the traditional belle époque architecture. The city indeed presents an awesome sight with its beautiful squares, exquisitely designed parks, coffee shops and restaurants truly resembling the European lifestyle while simultaneously keeping the magic and authenticity of the Latin American Argentine culture intact.

Another fascinating fact you should know about the city before you begin your exploration is that 48 neighborhoods together make up the city of Buenos Aires. These neighborhoods, also called Barrios, are quite distinct and have their own unique customs and traditions. Visiting each of the Barrio provides a wholesome treat to the tourists with a wide range of activities to pursue. A visit to San Telmo will relive the spirit of world renowned Argentine Tango. This oldest neighborhood of the city will provide you enough reasons to appreciate the tango, which is in its full glory on the cobbled streets in summer and also in the dance bars like Milongas. If you have heard about the famous Argentine football or passionate about this sport then consider visiting the La Boca neighborhood. Recoleta, a neighborhood in the city’s northern part, is popular for its legendary Recoleta Cemetery. The unique above ground vaults here contains the remains of many famous personalities, including Evita Perón.

Important tips for sightseeing
Remember that you are visiting a walking-friendly city like Buenos Aires. Don’t forget to bring comfortable clothes and shoes. Also, prepare yourself well as you will be required to spend several hours walking down the interesting barrios and streets in the city.

The best days for sightseeing are the weekends. Most of the tourist attractions in the city, cultural avenues and parks as well can be seen filled with people. You will also get opportunity to pursue cultural activities, see street concerts and shop at craft markets.

Strikes are a common social practice and part of daily life in Argentina. Here’s a caution in this regard for the tourists. If you ever happen to hear the word "piquete" and see the streets closed then you should know that a strike is taking place. The famous venues for some of the biggest strikes in the city are Diagonal Norte, Plaza de Mayo and Congress Square. You should avoid taking these routes for your sightseeing and also avoid getting involved as a curious onlooker. Who knows you just might get into trouble.

By now you must have acquired some information about the splendid city of Buenos Aires and what all to see and do here. This will surely help in preparing for your memorable vacation here.