Shereen Shabnam
My journey to Buenos Aires was with a local Emirati lady who I met for the first time at the airport and together we explored most of Argentina but naturally our best moments was in Buenos Aires, the capital city of Argentina.
The city at every time of the day was vibrant and enchanting offering a rich blend of history, culture, and architectural wonders. Our highlights of Buenos Aires included exploring Recoleta, Palermo, Plaza de Mayo, Puerto Madero, San Telmo, and La Boca.
Naturally retail therapy was top of the list, so we ventured to Recoleta, a glamorous neighborhood known for its elegant architecture, upscale boutiques, and charming cafés. Another attraction here is Recoleta Cemetery, the final resting place of many notable figures, including Eva Perón and has elaborate mausoleums and sculptures, making it a fascinating place to explore.
Moving on to Palermo, this neighborhood is divided into several sub-districts and is beloved for its trendy atmosphere. Palermo Soho is a hotspot for fashion, design, and nightlife, with its boutique shops, art galleries, and lively bars and restaurants. Palermo Hollywood, on the other hand, is known for its thriving culinary scene and vibrant nightlife.
Next up was Plaza de Mayo, the historic and political heart of Buenos Aires. Here, we found important landmarks such as the Pink House (Casa Rosada), which is the presidential palace and also the site where Eva Perón famously addressed the people from the balcony. The Metropolitan Cathedral, located adjacent to the Pink House, is another significant attraction that shouldn’t be missed.
For a taste of modernity, Puerto Madero is a must-visit area. This waterfront district was revitalized in the 1990s and is now a trendy district filled with upscale restaurants, bars, and luxury residences. Strolling along the waterfront promenade, admiring the sleek architecture and enjoying the views of the docks and river, is a delightful experience.
To immerse yourself in the history of Buenos Aires, head to San Telmo. This neighborhood has a bohemian atmosphere and is famous for its cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and antique markets. On Sundays, the streets come alive with the renowned San Telmo Antiques Fair, where you can browse through a treasure trove of unique items.
Our visit to La Boca took us to one of the most colorful and culturally significant neighborhoods in Buenos Aires. Caminito Street is the main attraction here, featuring vibrant buildings painted in bright hues and housing artists’ workshops, tango performances, and quaint restaurants. La Boca is also known as the birthplace of tango, so be sure to catch a tango show to experience the passionate dance firsthand.
One evening, we immersed ourselves in the mesmerizing world of tango at Tango Rojo, located at the cabaret of the Faena Hotel. With its decadent yet refined ambiance, Tango Rojo offers an authentic tango experience with talented musicians, vocalists, and dancers dressed in beautiful period costumes. It is regarded as one of the best tango shows in the city, and left us captivated by the sheer talent on display.
During our stay in Buenos Aires, we enjoyed the comforts of the Alvear Art Hotel, specifically in their Studio room. Alvear Art Hotel is a luxury accommodation option known for its elegant design, impeccable service, and convenient location. It offers a sophisticated experience for guests seeking both comfort and style.
Buenos Aires truly encapsulates the essence of Argentina, blending European charm with Latin American vibrancy. Whether you’re exploring its historic sites, indulging in its gastronomic delights, or immersing yourself in the passionate world of tango, the magic of this city is bound to leave a lasting impression. It certainly left a positive impression on us.
