Destination of the Month (September ’10)

Picture Source: Ministerio de Turismo de la Nación.

Buenos Aires - Argentina

Historically the gateway to the Atlantic Ocean, today Buenos Aires is not only the country’s capital, but also its heart. Buenos Aires is an excellent destination for your group to learn about an extraordinary culture, stroll along captivating streets and enjoy traditional Argentine Asados (BBQ), with excellent wines in the most exclusive restaurants of the city. Once called the 'Paris of South America', its architectural beauty is everywhere and its vibrant cultural life is coupled with first class service leading to frequent comparisons to the most high-profile cities of the world.

Buenos Aires offers a myriad of unique options for groups, such as enjoying a Tango Show & Dinner, with all the magic and charm that this dance has to offer, to taking tango classes in a typical 19th century mansion. Filled with a mixture of sensuality, nostalgia and passion “El Tango” will without a doubt captivate your senses.
A few kilometers from the city your group can immerse themselves in another aspect of Argentinian culture with a visit to an estancia (Gaucho Ranch). A stay at an estancia affords a glimpse into the Gaucho's history and way of life, and a chance to unwind and enjoy the countryside. Buenos Aires is also home of some of the best Creole cuisine in Argentina and to some of the most passionate soccer matches in South America. Buenos Aires is sure to be a landmark destination for your program.

Best time to go

In terms of weather, spring (September to November) and fall (March to May) are the best seasons to visit Buenos Aires. Winter can be cold, but not freezing, and is a fine time to visit the city’s theaters, museums and cafés.

Many tourists come during the late spring and summer (November to March), though the hottest months of January and February are hot and humid and the Porteños who can afford it tend to leave the city for the coasts. January and February are not recommendable months to be doing business in the capital. However, no matter what time of year you visit, BA will have something exciting to offer.

Climate

Buenos Aires’ climate is generally pleasant, with an annual rainfall of 900mm spread evenly throughout the year. The changeable spring, hot and humid summer and mild fall resemble New York City’s seasons, but winter temperatures are moderated by the South Atlantic and - for a city with a relatively low latitude (34° 37’ S) - are more comparable to Los Angeles, Sydney or Cape Town.

Frosts are uncommon, and the lowest temperature ever recorded is -5.4°C (22.3°F). Snowfall is rare, but in 2007 a storm left the city covered in a thick layer of white - something that hasn’t happened since 1918.

Flights

Buenos Aires is Argentina’s international gateway and easily accessible from North America, Europe and Australasia, as well as other capital cities in South America.

Almost all international flights arrive at BA’s Ezeiza airport, about 35km south of the city center.
Most domestic flights use Aeroparque Jorge Newbery, a short distance from downtown BA.
Flight information for both airports, in English and Spanish, is available at 5480-6111 or www.aa2000.com.ar

Airlines with offices in BA

Aerolíneas Argentinas, Air Canada , Air France, Alitalia, American Airlines, British Airways, Continental, Delta, KLM, Lan, LADE, LAB, Lufthansa, Swissair, TAM, United Airlines, Varig.