Buenos Aires pulses with the rhythm of tango, a dance that embodies passion, connection, and the city’s vibrant spirit. To truly experience this cultural treasure, venture into the heart of its milongas – traditional tango dance halls where locals and visitors alike gather to dance, connect, and celebrate this captivating art form.

Milongas: A World of Their Own:

Each milonga has its own unique personality, from the elegant and traditional to the casual and bohemian. Here are a few of my favorites, each offering a glimpse into the authentic tango culture of Buenos Aires:

Milongas: A World of Their Own:

Each milonga has its own unique personality, from the elegant and traditional to the casual and bohemian. Here are a few of my favorites, each offering a glimpse into the authentic tango culture of Buenos Aires:

• Salon Canning: A historic and elegant milonga, perfect for experiencing the classic style of tango.
• La Viruta: A lively and popular milonga with a mix of locals and tourists, offering a welcoming atmosphere for all levels.
• La Catedral: Housed in an old warehouse, La Catedral exudes a bohemian charm and offers a more relaxed and experimental approach to tango.
• El Beso: A traditional milonga with a focus on close embrace and intimate connection.
• La Baldosa: A vibrant milonga known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse crowd.

Tips for Navigating the Milongas:

• • Dress Code: Most milongas have a smart-casual dress code. Avoid wearing sneakers or overly casual attire.
  • Tango Etiquette: Observe the “cabeceo” – a subtle nod or eye contact used to invite someone to dance. Respect the dance floor and avoid bumping into other couples.
  • Embrace the Experience: Even if you’re not a dancer, immerse yourself in the atmosphere. Watch the dancers, listen to the music, and soak up the energy of the milonga.

Argentina isn’t just a country; it’s an experience. From the breathtaking Andes Mountains to the sun-kissed vineyards of Mendoza, this vibrant land invites you on an unforgettable journey. And what better way to immerse yourself in Argentina’s essence than through its world-renowned wines?

Each bottle tells a story – of diverse landscapes, centuries-old traditions, and a passion for crafting exceptional wines. So, whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply enjoy a good glass, let’s uncork the secrets of Argentina’s most beloved varietals together!

1. Los Intocables by Finca Las Moras:

Embrace the warmth and character of Argentina with Los Intocables. Aged in bourbon barrels, this wine boasts a rich, bold flavor that transports you to the sun-drenched vineyards of San Juan. It’s a testament to the passion and ingenuity of Argentine winemakers, available in every store and supermarket!

2. Humberto Canale Pinot Noir:

Experience elegance and finesse with Humberto Canale Pinot Noir. From Patagonia’s cool-climate vineyards, this gem offers delicate notes of cherry and spice, reminiscent of the gentle Andean breeze.

3. Hey Malbec:

Capture Argentina’s vibrant energy with Hey Malbec! Bursting with ripe fruit flavors and a velvety texture, this playful and approachable wine is perfect for any occasion. It’s a celebration of youth and the Mendoza terroir.

4. Propósitos Chenin Blanc by Michelini i Mufatto:

Embark on a sensory journey with Propósitos Chenin Blanc. Crisp, refreshing, and bursting with tropical fruit aromas, it’s like a taste of paradise with just the perfect wooden taste. 

5. Alma Gemela Garnacha & Bonarda:

Elevate your palate with Alma Gemela Garnacha & Bonarda. This symphony of flavors, with its luscious dark fruit and spicy undertones, commands attention and respect. It’s a testament to Argentina’s rich winemaking history.

6. Manos Negras Sauvignon Blanc:

Awaken your senses with Manos Negras Sauvignon Blanc. Its vibrant citrus flavors and zesty acidity offer a refreshing burst of sunshine. It’s a taste of the purity and vitality of Argentina’s natural landscape.

7. Trivento White Malbec:

Expand your horizons with Trivento White Malbec, a testament to Argentine innovation. Light-bodied and refreshing, with notes of green apple and citrus, it’s a unique and exciting wine that captures the spirit of exploration in Argentina’s wine scene.

8. Eggo by Zorzal:

Experience the artistry of Argentine winemaking with Eggo by Zorzal. Its bold flavors and velvety texture make it a journey of discovery with every sip. It’s a reminder of the passion and dedication behind every bottle of Argentine wine.

Salud! To Argentina and its incredible Wines!

So, there you have it – a glimpse into Argentina’s rich tapestry of flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply curious to explore, let these wines be your guide on a journey through the heart and soul of the country. 

Argentina, with its vibrant culture 💃, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, offers a fantastic family adventure. From the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the breathtaking natural wonders beyond, there’s something to captivate every member of your family. Let’s explore some tips and activities to ensure a memorable and stress-free trip with your little explorers.

Buenos Aires: A Playground for All Ages

• Parque Tres de Febrero: This sprawling park is a wonderland for kids, with playgrounds, paddleboat rentals on the lake, and plenty of green space for running and playing 🌈🏃‍♂️. 

• Temaikén Biopark: Embark on a wildlife adventure at Temaikén🦁, just outside the city. This expansive biopark showcases a diverse array of animals from around the world, with interactive exhibits and educational shows that will delight kids and adults alike.

• Museo de los Niños Abasto: Let your kids’ imaginations run wild at this interactive children’s museum 🎨, housed in a former shopping mall. They can role-play in a miniature city, explore a pirate ship, and engage in hands-on exhibits that make learning fun. Perfect if you catch on a rainy day!
  

• Planetario Galileo Galilei: Take a journey through the cosmos at the Planetario 🚀. Its immersive shows and exhibits introduce children to the wonders of the universe, sparking their curiosity and sense of wonder.
  

• Ecoparque: Formerly the Buenos Aires Zoo, Ecoparque is undergoing a transformation into an interactive conservation center. While some exhibits are still under development, it’s a great place to observe local wildlife 🐒 and learn about environmental sustainability.

• Thematic playgrounds: Buenos Aires is a very kid-friendly city, so if you’re visiting with your little ones, check out my map for a top selection of free playgrounds 🤸‍♀️, inspired by the culture, music, and native animals of Argentina, making them a definite must-visit for your kids! 

If you visit Buenos Aires, you may as well visit Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay and get that extra passport stamp as it’s just a hop, skip, and a jump across the river. You can even see Uruguay from tall buildings in Buenos Aires.

It’s also a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires, as Colonia is a small town in a small country. In fact, there have been talks about building a bridge from Buenos Aires to Colonia, but Colonia is afraid it will get overrun by Argentinian tourism and lose its small-town charm. It’s a beautiful town you will not want to miss! Even though Uruguay is considered Argentina’s little brother, it is a country with its own charm and distinct history reflected in its architecture and food culture. 

Talking about visits to Uruguay to an English-speaking audience means it’s a must to talk about visa runs. You might be looking at this article precisely for that reason. Many people use Uruguay to extend their tourist visas beyond the usual six-month maximum. It isn’t without its risks, but the risk an agent will deny you entry is extremely low at the time of this blog. If that is your goal, you will want to take advantage of the opportunity to do some tourism. So here’s a guide on getting there and some things to do. 

Getting there:

You will want to take a ferry from Buenos Aires to Colonia. It’s only about an hour long, but make sure you bring your camera as you’ll see beautiful views while out on the water. Buquebus and Colonia Express are the two main companies that run these ferry trips. Get your tickets at least a few days early as Uruguay is a very popular destination for Argentinians and tourists alike. When there’s a long weekend involved, you’ll want to plan even earlier. Look up Argentinian holidays if you’re not familiar with them. If you want exact dates, give yourself some extra time. 

What to do while there: 

From the boat it’s only about a ten minute walk to the town, it’s probably easiest just to follow the crowd or take a taxi. Once you arrive, you will need your camera ready to explore this beautiful colonial town. 

The historic district is a popular destination as it’s known for its buildings from its time as a Portuguese settlement. You can visit the remnants of the old city walls and also climb the lighthouse for a beautiful view of the river. Check this view out at sunset and prepare to be amazed! This is particularly unique for Argentinians or anyone who stays there long-term as we’re accustomed to the sun rising over the river, whereas in Uruguay the sun is going to be setting over the river. The historic district is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage site the street of sighs, which has kept a lot of its Portuguese character. I’ll let you find out why it’s called the street of sighs!

Half the point of a good vacation is eating different foods. As it’s riverside you will want to try its fresh seafood. Assuming you’ve spent time in Argentina you’ll want to try some of its more distinctive dishes. Look for its Portuguese influenced cuisine and the chivito, its famous sandwich. Like Argentina, Uruguay has an asado (grilled beef) and wine culture. Both have their own unique characteristics. I tried the wine and it was excellent. If you love a good wine you absolutely want to check out Uruguayan wine.  Of course, you will probably also want to check out its sweet treats.

As for how much time is needed? You can likely see all the main attractions in one day. However, if you want to take your time, absorb the atmosphere, relax at the beach, sample more of the food, and explore the details of the city and all its attractions you could easily fill three days. The sunsets at the beach are incredible. You may easily want to spend your late afternoons at the beach, watching the beautiful sunset, or eat at a riverside restaurant with a spectacular view. If you love the beach and/or beautiful sunsets you will want to plan some extra time.

While you’re here in Argentina, let’s make some beautiful memories before you head off to Uruguay!  See you soon!