Experience in Mendoza, Argentina by Santiago

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

Mendoza is an incredible city. The days there are sunny practically all year round and it almost never rains. I think it's the perfect balance of a metropolis and a town. There's everything you could possibly want, it's nightlife (bars, theatres, etc. ) is abundant but on the other hand, you can go a few kilometres out and be enveloped in the tranquility of its mountain, its docks or even its General San Martín park (located in the centre of the city), finding peace and admiring its landscapes.

Moreover, it's the birthplace of Argentinian vine-growing, so you can easily visit and taste the wines of some of the most prestigious wine cellars in the world.

The people are warm and friendly in Mendoza, so you shouldn't hesitate to ask for help.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Mendoza?

The student lifestyle is complicated in Mendoza. Lots of students from all over Argentina come to study here. There are also various exchange students who come throughout the year, so nobody can feel alone there.

How much does it cost to live in Mendoza?

Mendoza can be more expensive to live in than other provinces in Argentina but the cost of living is still more than reasonable here. It's difficult to give a precise figure as it depends on where you're living, if the university pays for you or not, etc., but in any case, people on many different budgets can live together easily in Mendoza.

Was it difficult to get accommodation in Mendoza? Do you have any advice?

There are university residence but they're generally reserved for students with financial problems or longer term courses. Unfortunately, it's not that easy to get a shared flat, it's still not very widespread here. However, there are various students apartments in the centre or in the bar area at Aristides street. Building security is something to keep in mind, too.

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

In general, the gastronomy in Argentina is very wide ranging and they eat a lot of meat, there's a reason Argentinians are the biggest consumer of meat in the world per person (116kg per person per year according to some sources). Among the meats, the most stand out is the "asado" and some Argentinians would take offence to it being compared to "barbecue". Each one is different and they can change depending on the tastes and the origin of whoever is preparing it.

Some other typical foods include locro and humita (maize is the main ingredient of both dishes), creol steak and empanadas.

You also have to try mate, fernet and, if you're in Mendoza during winter: churros with dulce de leche. They're particular tastes that will delight any foreign palate, even if only after the third or fourth time of trying them.

Where would you recommend to visit in Mendoza?

The whole of the Valle de Uco, Tupungato, Villavicencio and las Carretas regions are places you must not miss out on no matter what. The vegetation in Mendoza is scarce but up in the mountains you'll find it in abundance in a palette of unique colours! If you have time for a longer trip: San Rafael, la laguna de Llancanelo, Las Leñas (you can go in summer or in winter when they have the ski slopes running) and la Laguna del Diamante are unforgettable places that you have to explore.

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And to eat in Mendoza? What were some of you favourite places?

The food in Mendoza is abundant. Some of the typical dishes are chivo (the best kind is from Malargüe), the classic lomitos, pucher, carbonada, "carne a la olla" (a kind of meat stew) and arrope, to name a few. As for patisserie, fried cakes and their famous pancakes for breakfast or as a snack, are some that stand out.

The empanadas of Mendoza are the top of my own personal list, without a doubt. In Argentina, the empanadas are very different depending on the region and, personally, I think that the ones from Mendoza are the best! And, of course, everything should be accompanied by a good Mendoza wine.

Where would you recommend for a good night out in Mendoza?

There are a lot of options for going out partying in Mendoza. On any day, people of any age can get together on a night in Mendoza. Arístides street is probably the best place to start the night, there you can find all kinds of restaurants, bars, pubs and even clubs (or boliches as they call them there), all on the same street. The Chacras de Coria area stands out for its calmer bars and restaurants, although they're a bit further away. The Chacras area is best for its clubs, you'll find the biggest ones in the city there. Besides, the countless pubs on San Martin street are an excellent option. And, lastly, if you're looking for something more "bohemian" you should head for the Alameda area.

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Do you have any advice for future students in Mendoza?

Do not miss out on visiting this incredible city.