Experience in Buenos Aires, Argentina by Valentina

What is it like to live in Buenos Aires? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Living in Buenos Aires is a mix of contemporary architecture and centuries old traditions and monuments. Having a past of heavy immigration, the city is full of different culture accents while keeping true to Argentinian traditions. There are so many beautiful places to explore around and even outside the city itself, like La Boca, El Teatro Colón, El Obelisco, and more. The thing I love more about my city is how you can find 19th century old gems disguised as really old houses dispersed around everywhere you go. Being a place that stores so much culture and beauty, if you haven't been here yet you are missing out.

What is the student lifestyle like in Buenos Aires?

The student lifestyle honestly depends on your resources and where you choose to stay and study. The majority of students will tell you they really enjoy it as the city is always lighted up and full of life. You are sure to meet friends from at least three different countries and as long as you are attentive to your needs and personal stuff you will be perfectly fine.

How much does it cost to live in Buenos Aires?

Based on a Number article, a single person is estimated to spend around 470 usd without rent, and Buenos Aires is 62.18% less expensive than New York (without rent).
If you are from the northern hemisphere you are sure to find most prices barely cheap as euros, pounds and dollars are much more expensive than Argentinian pesos.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Buenos Aires? Is there any advice you can give?

I would say it is pretty easy to find a place to stay as there are a lot of apartments and places thought out specifically for students.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

If you come to Argentina, you simply cannot leave without trying a traditional Asado, which is a type of barbecue with much more feel and passion if you ask me. Families here are used to eat meat every other day, but especially on Sundays where the whole family reunites and eats together. The meat is cheaper here than in other countries due to Argentina being one of the greatest predictors of meat in the world.
I also urge you to try our traditional drink, Mate, which is like a deconstructed tea made with Yerba mate which is drank through a metal straw. Don't forget to try Dulce de Leche, sweet pastries like Alfajores and Facturas and much more.

What places would you recommend visiting in Buenos Aires?

I recommend the MALBA museum of contemporary Latin American art, places like Puerto Madero and Palermo to find good eats, El Paseo del Rosedal and El Parque Tres de Febrero to get in a colorful walk, and El Teatro Colón to go see beautiful theater.

Is it good to eat out in Buenos Aires? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Eating out here is my favorite thing to do. You can find great places everywhere you go, like in the area of Palermo Soho, San Isidro and La Costanera. My recommendations are Don Julio and La Cabrera if you are looking for a great Asado, but you will find great meat everywhere you go, especially inside a family's home which is the greatest option.

Is the nightlife good in Buenos Aires? Where is good to go?

The nightlife is great. Famous "boliches" or clubs are focused on La Costanera and Palermo if you're looking for a cool place to party. There are also so many bars around those areas as well that focus more on just having a few drinks rather than dancing. The most famous ones are Tequila, Asia de Cuba, Uptown Bar, Crobar, Pacha, Boutique and Jet. You will be surprised to see the party won't die until sunrise and how people go back to their homes on foot at 8am with their full party outfit from the night before.

What advice would you give future students heading to Buenos Aires?

My advice would be; be confident, know your zones and places, especially if you will be using public transport. Be safe and try not to wander alone at really late hours, but especially enjoy yourself and have a lot of fun! :)