Buenos Aires

Cultural Etiquette

• •Greet and say goodbye to everyone in a group individually with a cheek kiss (or handshake).
• •Never refuse an offer of mate if shared among friends; it's a sign of trust and camaraderie.
• •Be patient with service; meals and social interactions are meant to be leisurely, not rushed.
• •Dress neatly when going out to dinner or a nice bar—Porteños tend to dress up, not down.
• •Avoid discussing the Peróns or politics unless you know the company well; it can be a deeply divisive topic.

Useful Phrases

Is Buenos Aires safe for tourists?

Yes, the main tourist areas are generally safe during the day and evening if you stay alert. Use common sense: don't flash expensive jewelry, be discreet with phones, avoid deserted streets at night, and be extra cautious in La Boca (stick to Caminito) and on crowded public transport. Petty theft is the primary concern.

What is the 'blue dollar' and how do I get it?

The 'blue dollar' is the unofficial, parallel market exchange rate for US dollars, which offers nearly double the official bank rate. You get it by bringing physical US dollar bills (in good condition, $100 bills get the best rate) and exchanging them at licensed cuevas (exchange houses) or through reputable money transfer services. Never exchange on the street.

Do I need to speak Spanish?

It's very helpful but not strictly necessary in tourist zones, where English is commonly spoken in hotels and major restaurants. Learning basic phrases (hola, gracias, por favor, la cuenta) is appreciated. In local neighborhoods and with taxi drivers, Spanish is essential. A translation app is highly recommended.

Can I drink the tap water?

Yes, the tap water in Buenos Aires is generally safe to drink and of good quality. Porteños drink it regularly. If you have a sensitive stomach, you may prefer bottled water, but it's not a necessity for health reasons.

How do I get tickets to a Boca Juniors soccer match?

It's highly recommended to book through an official tour agency. Tickets are very difficult for tourists to buy independently due to membership requirements and safety protocols. Agencies provide tickets, transport, and a guide for a safe and enjoyable experience at La Bombonera.

What's the best way to experience authentic tango?

Attend a milonga (a social tango dance hall) like La Viruta or Salon Canning. You can go just to watch. For a lesson, many milongas offer a short class before the social dancing begins. This is far more authentic than the expensive, theatrical dinner shows aimed at tourists.

What is the voltage and plug type?

Argentina uses 220V voltage and Type I plugs (with two slanted pins and sometimes a third grounding pin). Some older buildings may still have Type C plugs. Travelers from North America and Europe will need a plug adapter, and those from 110V countries may need a voltage converter for certain devices.

How should I handle tipping?

In restaurants, a 10% tip (propina) is customary for good service and is often not included in the bill. You can leave cash on the table or add it when paying by card. For taxi drivers, round up the fare. For hotel porters and tour guides, a small tip is appreciated but not mandatory.