Traveling to Buenos Aires - Argentina Travel Guide

Incredible Buenos Aires

By Dorothea Hunter
Oprah.com | From the May 2009 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine

There's something about Argentina's stylish capital that has the world transfixed. And nowhere is the feeling more apparent than in fashion: Summer's latest trends are designed to tango, which is why O 's fashion team flew south to shoot gorgeous warm-weather outfits.

Already starting to count vacation days? Plan an itinerary around these suggestions.

Take off: With dependable overnight flights from major U.S. cities, LAN Airlines (LAN.com; 866-435-9526) has established itself as the region's leading carrier. Book online to receive 3 percent off each ticket.

Luxe for less: The dollar still goes a long way there, and the city's most sumptuous Old World gem, the Alvear Palace Hotel (AlvearPalace.com, 877-457-6315), is a worthy splurge (rooms start at $382). In addition to its gorgeous spa and top-of-the-line Arita antiques store, "the hotel's service is impeccable," says Adam Glassman, O's creative director. "Butlers cater to every whim—I didn't think hotels did that anymore."

Afternoon refresher: Tea in the hotel's glass-domed L'Orangerie garden is a popular choice, but for a more traditional experience, sip café cortado (espresso "cut" with milk) in the Lobby Bar while sampling sweets filled with dulce de leche, a caramel-like paste beloved by locals (even Oreos are stuffed with it).

The Paris of South America: A walk around the hotel's posh Recoleta neighborhood confirms the city's similarity to the French capital. Belle époque mansions with intricate masonry and delicate wrought-iron fences line its blocks, and Cementerio de la Recoleta, the maze of ornate mausoleums where Eva Perón is buried, recalls Paris's famed Père Lachaise cemetery.

Soaring heights: In the Microcentro district, a ride to the top of 22-story Palacio Barolo—itself an architectural wonder—provides a stunning view of Avenida 9 de Julio (the world's widest boulevard), the iconic Teatro Colón opera house, and the neoclassical Casa Rosada ("pink house," where the president lives).

Street party: Stroll down cobblestoned Calle Defensa in up-and-coming San Telmo and explore Pasaje de la Defensa, a former aristocratic residence whose three courtyards now house tiny antiques shops. The area is a throwback to the Buenos Aires of centuries past, and a guaranteed spot for impromptu tango demonstrations. Aim for a Sunday visit to see the lively craft fair that ends with a riotous dance parade set to loud drums.

Good eats: Authentic Bar El Federal and Bar Británico are perfect for quick lunches, serving tostados (hot sandwiches) with local Quilmes beer. No trip to Argentina is complete without a grilled steak and a glass of Malbec, the country's signature wine varietal; La Cabrera, in the chic Palermo Viejo neighborhood, offers both at an unbeatable price. For a taste of the city's buzzing nightlife, sip cocktails in the garden of hip resto-bar Milión.

Reach out: Contact the Argentina Tourism Office (Argentina.Travel, 305-371-5559) for more info.)

Behind the scenes: See photos from O's Buenos Aires shoot

Printed from Oprah.com on Saturday, February 11, 2012