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Buenos Aires |
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Buenos Aires
Visitors to the wide boulevards of Buenos Aires often compare the city to Paris. And it’s true that Buenos Aires does have European architecture, cobblestone plazas, café culture, and chic shopping districts. But the jacaranda-shaded city that brought the world tango and Eva Perón has its own strong South American character, with much to offer the luxury traveler.
Activities and Attractions:
The Plaza de Mayo is the city’s central square, and it’s a great place to get acquainted with Buenos Aires. Here, every Thursday, the mothers of los desaparecidos stage silent and peaceful demonstrations in the hopes that there will never be another Dirty War. The presidential palace overlooks the square, and it’s from one of the Casa Rosada’s balconies that Evita addressed her adoring crowds.
Other Perón sites include the Museo Evita, where many artifacts associated with the national hero are preserved; and the Recoleta Cemetery where she is buried.
While you’re in the Recoleta neighborhood, you can engage in the favorite daytime activity of Porteños (city residents): shopping. Recoleta’s Avenida Alvear is something like a southern Champs-Elysées, with art galleries, antique stores, and ultra-luxe boutiques. If you are hoping to purchase some of the city’s signature leather goods, venture to the Microcentro business district. Calle Florida has dozens of small shops and a magnificent domed mall for browsing.
At night, treat yourself to a steak dinner—this beef-obsessed country produces some of the best in the world. Then visit a milonga, or tango salon. Some offer professionally choreographed extravaganzas, others more intimate performances, and at some, you can take a lesson and learn a few slinky, seductive steps yourself.
Insider Tip:
At a milonga, nobody will expect you to come up with a traditional costume. But do try to look presentable. You’ll find that other tangoistas dress to impress, and you’ll stick out in shorts or sneakers.
-Exclusively for Perfect Escapes by Nicole Clausing |
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