Practical Information of Buenos Aires, everything you need to know about this huge city before traveling.
The objective of this article is to review important information about Buenos Aires, such as if it is safe, how tips work, what voltage the plugs have and other useful information for your visit.
Previously we have reviewed what the weather is like in Buenos Aires, how to get around the city and how to get there from the airport.
Next, we are going to talk about other useful topics to be prepared and enjoy this great city as well as possible.
Language in Argentina
In Buenos Aires, in the entire country and in most of the countries in South America, the main language is Spanish. Depending on the province of Argentina you visit you will notice that every place has their own particular words and pronunciations.
In Buenos Aires we make a sound in the “LL” and “Y”, but in other provinces as La Rioja or San Juan they do it in the double “R”. Also, spanish in Argentina is different from the one in Spain and other South American countries.
Currency
Argentina has it’s own currency, the Argentine peso. You can check the rates of the currencies in the National Bank’s website. You can get cash from ATM’s and exchange in official exchange offices.
In downtown of Buenos Aires you will find a lot of offices and also in every shopping mall.
Safety
Buenos Aires is a safe city but some basic recommendations are needed. Mind you belongings to avoid pick pockets in crowded places and don’t expose unnecesarily expensive electronics or goods. By no means go for a walk wearing a Rolex Clock or extremely luxurious things.
Check this post to see advantages and disadvantages of every touristy neighbourhood of Buenos Aires.
Public Transport
The Metro Network is easy to understand and will take you almost everywhere you need. Buses are big and comfortable and locals are very friendly in helping you getting around. For more info chek our article on How to get around in Buenos Aires.
Tipping
In Argentina, the most common thing is to tip a waiter in bars and restaurants, the delivery boy, tourist guides and the one who helps us with luggage at airports and bus stations.
Tips are not included in the bills and are left on the table or given directly to the person concerned. In restaurants the basic thing is to leave 10% of what is consumed. Found out here what to eat in Buenos Aires.
Electricity and Internet
In Argentina we use:
- Voltage: 220 V
- Frequency: 50 Hz
- Plug type: C / I
Internet signal is normally good in Buenos Aires. Hotels, hostels, bars and restaurants offer free wifi. And lately the government offers free wifi in subway stations and in some parks.