Information for visitors to Argentina



Etiquette

For the most part, it is easy to communicate in English in Argentina. In fact, Argentines love to converse with foreigners, especially with people from Europe, and they often have an in-depth knowledge of international issues. In the business sphere there is not a great emphasis on religion, but as you move away from Buenos Aires the topic becomes more of a focus. A handshake is usually the first introduction in business settings and is used for both greetings and farewells.

Business Attire

Normal business attire is a suit with no tie for men, although a tie may be appropriate in a highly professional or diplomatic environment. For women, a suit or dress is most common. Business cards are normally used, but do not be surprised if you are asked to exchange phone numbers or emails instead.

Currency

The Argentine peso experienced rapid depreciation in the second quarter of 2018 due to economic volatility, reaching an exchange rate of AR28.62:$1 in June. The stabilisation of the peso is a topic of debate, and there is uncertainty around when that may happen. Bureaux de change can be found in the centre of the city, particularly in the neighbourhood of Microcentro. You will also find individuals on the street exchanging dollars at their own rate, which is generally a bad one. ATMs are widely accessible and can be used to withdraw cash using international cards, charging a standard commission of AR250 ($12.95), regardless of the amount. This charge may also increase with inflation. It is advisable to carry US dollars as they are usually accepted by banks and money changers.

Health

There are no particular health precautions to be noted in Argentina. Although bottled water is recommended, drinking tap water is still safe. International health insurance is advised when travelling to Argentina, but you will still be provided with necessary care in any hospital or clinic in the country. Adequate routine medical care is available in all of the major cities; however, outside the country’s main urban areas, emergency services are generally considered to be limited.

Transport

Cars are the primary means of travel for short to medium distances, while flights are the main option for longer trips. Low-cost carriers are starting to enter the market, but tickets are still expensive compared to other countries in the region. Trains run from Buenos Aires to many cities within the province, but are seldom used for long distances.

People drive on the right-hand side of the road in Argentina, and an international driving licence is required to rent or drive a car. Traffic can become an issue in Buenos Aires, especially during protests, which are quite common. Public transport is readily available in multiple forms, with buses and an efficient subway network. Within Buenos Aires, one can rent bicycles from stations throughout the capital. Taxis are affordable for the most part, with an average trip costing about AR100 ($5.18). The city’s only taxi company is owned by the local government. There are also a number of ride-hailing apps such as Cabify and Uber, though these apps are still illegal in the country.

Visas

Argentina allows foreigners from 80 countries to travel in the country visa-free for up to 90 days. Visa-free travel is also available for tourists from Venezuela for up to 60 days, as well as for visitors from Grenada, Hong Kong (with British National Overseas passports), Jamaica, Kazakhstan and Malaysia.

Food & Drink

Typical dishes in Argentina include empanadas, which are pastries filled with different fillings such as meat, cheese and vegetables; picada, which is a selection of cheeses, salami, meats, olives and other snacks served on a board; and asado, which is a traditional method of grilling meat. Argentina’s traditional breakfast item is the medialuna, which is essentially a croissant made with more butter. The national beer is Quilmes, but there is a wide variety of other beers, with craft beers popular in bars. The most common alcoholic drink is Fernet, a bitter spirit typically served with Coca Cola and ice. Buenos Aires offers a diverse range of clubs, bars and restaurants.