Buenos Aires, ARGENTINA
Airing Date: May 12th, 2003
Hailed as 'the Paris of the South', Buenos Aires has an air of sophistication that's more reflective of European culture than anything Latin. The city's energetic pulse is felt in all aspects of living, from its lively streets to its old-time cafs and stylish restaurants.
Three million 'Portenos' live right in the heart of Buenos Aires. These city-slickers are renowned for their passion for fashion, food, music and dance.
As a result of Argentina's economic strife, shopping in Buenos Aires is increasingly popular with tourists. Fashion here is around half the price of back home. A coffee in one of the many welcoming cafs costs just $1, and leathergoods are also cheap. But people don't just come to Buenos Aires to shop. There are many cultural activities here too.
Buenos Aires is famous for the tango. Head to La Ventana and watch a sensational tango show with a three-course meal for $60. Here, you can also have a go at tango yourself. A ninety minute class costs $40. Before you know it , you'll be swinging your hips and gliding across the dance floor.
Like Paris, Buenos Aires also has a very intriguing history. One name in particular is whispered frequently through the city's streets. Evita (or Eva Peron) is still a controversial figure, even 51 years after her death at the age of 33. She was absolutely loved by the poor, but despised by the rich. Evita made some fundamental changes to the Argentinean constitution, including getting women the right to vote.
Tourists can visit the presidential palace in Plaza de Mayo and check out the famous balcony where Evita captured the heart of the nation. A $5 cab ride will take you to the Evita Museum, where you can learn about her remarkable life. If you're looking for a more spiritual - or spooky - experience, check out the huge and very popular Recoleta cemetery where she was laid to rest.
The facts
Travelworld provides flights to Buenos Aires on Qantas with connections on Lan Chile. Return prices start at $1913 from the east coast and $2747 from the west coast.
Travelworld
Tel: 13 14 35
Accommodation at Hotel Bristol starts from $85 per night including breakfast.
Peregrine Adventures
Tel: 1300 854 444 (international)
Gador Viajes
Tel: 0011 5411 4811 8498 (international)
Evita Museum
Tel: 0011 5411 4807 0306 (international)
Recoleta Cemetery
Tel: 0011 5411 4803 1594 (international)
La Ventana
Tel: 0011 5411 4331 0217 (international)
