Argentina, the country of South America, has always stirred the imagination of travelers. But when you set foot on this land, what you see and hear may make you wonder if you really have arrived in Argentina.
First of all, you will find that currency exchange is a technical job. The huge difference between official and private exchange rates is dizzying. Wise travelers will choose to bring cash in US dollars and exchange it locally to earn more pesos.
And when you arrive at the airport with KLM, you may be a little disappointed. It's hard to have an unforgettable meal on this airline's plane. The quality of its service can only be described as so-so.
Communication is also a challenge. In Argentina, Spanish is the mainstream, and English is not spoken much. If you don't know Spanish, be prepared with gestures and expressions to communicate.
When you think of Argentinian cuisine, you probably think of grilled meats with unique flavors. It is true that Argentines have a soft spot for barbecue, but other than that, other dietary options are relatively limited.
Swap money at the airport and you may regret it. The exchange rate is usually much worse than in the city. Smart tourists will choose to exchange money at banks or exchange points in the city.
And in this country of football, Boca Juniors Club is almost a household name. Even if you're not a football fan, it's hard not to be infected by the locals' craze for this team.
When it comes to paying for your stay, you'll find it better to pay with cash. Not only does this avoid exchange rate losses, but it is also more popular in many hotels and hostels.
The barrier to entry into Argentina is not low. In addition to visas and passports, customs will also ask for proof of payment. However, once you are ready, you will find that customs is surprisingly efficient.
The state of the local economy may surprise you. The minimum wage is only about 1,300 yuan, but health care and education are free.
For non-football lovers, the charm of Buenos Aires may be diminished. The city's attractiveness is largely tied to football.
But prices in Argentina will surprise you. The cost of living is low and public transport is fairly cheap to explore.
The issue of law and order requires special attention. While many areas are relatively safe, there are others where the security situation is complex and personal safety must be vigilant at all times.
For Chinese tourists, it is usually more economical to transfer from Shanghai to Buenos Aires via Amsterdam. This route has become the choice of many people.
Finally, the local taxi service is also very special. It is recommended to use Uber and seek help from security personnel at the airport to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
This is Argentina, a country full of contradictions and surprises. You might be puzzled by the way of life and can't even believe it's Argentina. But it has a unique charm that will surely make you unforgettable.