Whether you are coming to Buenos Aires just to visit or to live here indefinitely, there are a few things to consider that will ease your transition. While exploring a new place is half, if not all, the fun, it’s always nice to have a rough guideline of what to expect.
Argentina’s capital is anomalous on many levels. It has a European laid-back vibe that is simultaneously mixed with new-world pulse. The denizens speak a distinct dialect of Spanish incomprehensible to most native speakers and they are also very proud of their history, culture, and good-looking people. At times, their pride can be a bit much, but once you see and read about the country, you would be proud, too.
Nevertheless, to help navigate the cultural idiosyncrasies of beautiful BA, we came up with five light items to pack into your bags to ensure that your stay or sojourn will go a little more smoothly.
1 An Open Mind – Things are different in Buenos Aires on every level: politically, socially and economically. For a long time, Argentina has tried to distinguish itself as different which means that, although the country tries to find inspiration from abroad, it has always put its own spin on things. Understand the local way of doing things is crucial when moving abroad.
Open Mind Graffiti (Photo: Dr Case)
Politically, most people are very aware and active, but one-on-one, you may find it hard for a porteño to open up to a stranger about his or her political viewpoint. Socially, if you become friends with Argentines, it is expected that you do things together. Most inclinations towards introversion may be seen as weird as this culture, which is, in general, is very social. Locals drink mate together, go to coffee and restaurants together, they go dancing in groups and anything that you have to say to one friend will be shared with everyone in the group.
When it comes to economics, the country has experienced its share of highs and lows throughout history. It makes it difficult for currency exchange, to get coins for the bus (though now you can use a transit card, which is also cheaper!), and sometimes the price of food will spike. Depending on who you are and when you come, you may be living the high life or be frequently frustrated. Either way, the best way to enjoy it is roll with it.
2 (A Savvy) Head on your Shoulders – Be sure to keep safety at the top of your priority list. The city is not explicitly dangerous, but it is fast-paced and a bit chaotic.
Transito in Buenos Aires can be difficult to navigate. (Photo: Adriana Sugimoto)
Whether you are driving, walking or riding a bicycle, make sure you keep a look out for bus mirrors zooming by your head and intersections that have no stop signs or traffic lights. A couple of times you may notice a vehicle flashing its lights at you, which usually means that it is coming through at pace and has no intention of stopping. As pedestrians do not have “right of way”, wait for a (big) gap to cross.
Dealing with it will help you discover an inner sense of patience that can only translate as grace. To become relaxed, or tranquilo, is something that is characteristic of the people here. Although they have their neuroses, most locals have a therapist to help them regain their chill.
3 Peripheral Vision – In a city that has beautiful people and amazing architecture (old and new), it is important to not forget about ground level obstacles.
Buenos Aires sidewalks need your full attention to navigate. (Photo: Francis Mariani)
The pavements are one of the most important things to watch out for. First, in the centre they are narrow and foot traffic is tight. This means that any previous levels of spatial awareness you may have had will need to be re-evaluated as you rub shoulders with the people. The pavements also are in need of heavy repair: stubbed toes are all too common from the protruding bricks and mortar on the ground, and broken tiles splash dirty street water up your legs after it rains. If you are wearing sandals or heels, make sure you bring a gazelle-like prance with you.
Another thing to watch out for when walking is the little doggy gifts, especially in the San Telmo region. A few years ago, the city released an ad campaign with hopes to educate the city-dwellers why it is wise to ‘poop-and-scoop’ and since then, the issue has improved. However, it’s still a reality so make sure you keep your eyes scanning, especially when wearing flip-flops.
Last, but not least, you need to have 360’ owl-vision is to prevent pick-pocketers from taking your goods, especially in busy areas and on public transport. This isn’t exclusive advice for Buenos Aires, but as most travellers know, do not carry important documents or a wad of money in obvious places on your person.
Keep your eyes peeled for “tricks” with mustard or small groups of people asking you questions. Even then, thieves will become creative and find other ways of getting into your bag. A friend sent a handy trick saying to line the inside opening of your bag with Velcro. It adds a second layer of protection and the “ripping” sound will frighten the thief off.
4 Castellano (Rioplatense) – This is the Rioplatense dialect described above that is specific to the city or Buenos Aires and surrounding areas (Uruguay has a similar dialect). Many Spanish classes and books may not prepare you for the few weeks that it will take to acclimatise to the nuances of the language here. The words are different, as well as the accent, tone and inflection. They call it castellano here (never ‘español‘) and sometimes it seems to be more like a mix between Spanish and Italian.
Porteños do not hide the fact that they speak a different language than much of Latin America, and are, in fact, proud of it. The people in Buenos Aires are well read and are very methodical when it comes to educating others. Sometimes, if you try to say a word, a helpful local will not only tell you the Argentine word for it, but also how to properly pronounce it. Even Spanish native speakers from other Latin countries have experienced this so do not feel like it is because you have a non-Latin accent. It’s cultural and, if you like the accent, you will appreciate the tutorship.
This might be a bit more duct tape than you need to bring with you. (Photo: woodleywonderworks)
5 Duct tape – This has no hidden or symbolic meaning but it is probably the smallest, most sensible, and economically efficient tangible thing you could bring. There are a lot of different things that are available when you travel or move to another country and that’s part of figuring the place out. The reality is things break, suitcases get ripped and duct tape is not easily available here.
It is the handiest thing to have as it is strong and waterproof, making it sticky gold for a country that is hard on your tools and when it rains, it pours. If your boots break, you can quick fix it with a piece of tape. If you need to construct a make-shift device to steam vegetables, you can rope together a few cooking devices.
Also, the buildings are beautiful here but they do not have drywall, which means you need a drill or very strong tape to tack things to the wall. This is where duct tape becomes a home’s best friend for the temporary home renovation or decoration.
Although these are not the only things to consider when getting mentally ready for an adventure in Argentina, they are practical philosophies that will go with you everywhere. Whether you decide to stay in the city, explore the country or venture home with some crazy stories, these five things will help you enjoy your time and the place with a little more ease.
