Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is a Latin American cultural hub. From dancing to tango tunes to enjoying soccer, if you are a fanatic, there is a lot to do and see here.
Buenos Aires is culturally vibrant and welcoming. You'll find antique shopping places and art museums to satiate your soul. Plus, there are many eating outlets fitting all budgets to give your taste buds their own experience. Purchase travel medical insurance before leaving for Buenos Aires so you can fully enjoy your trip without the worry of costly injuries or illnesses tarnishing the trip.
Buenos Aires Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
Buenos Aires has both a public and a private healthcare system. The former is mostly overburdened and offers no quick solution. Unless, of course, if you are bleeding profusely or literally dying. The latter is expensive, given the inflation in Buenos Aires. The best way to stay financially protected against medical expenses is to buy travel medical insurance.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Buenos Aires?
Travel insurance for Argentina is no longer legally required, but it is practically necessary. Without it, you could incur significant costs if you require medical treatment while traveling abroad.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Buenos Aires?
When you are outside your home country, your local policy does not cover you. You have no assistance at hand. Especially so when you don't speak the local language. Buenos Aires isn't the cheapest of destinations. Either you go insured, or you risk having to pay hefty bills and getting little to no assistance when you or your co-traveler are struggling with health issues. When you have a travel medical insurance plan, it can provide coverage for your medical emergencies so you are not burdened with looming medical bills.
Things to Do for Travelers in Buenos Aires
Here are our top suggestions to make your trip to Buenos Aires more memorable:
Have a splendid time at El Ateneo Grand Splendid
What was once a grand theater and then a grand cinema, has now become a grand bookstore. That's El Ateneo Grand Splendid for you. The historical theater and cinema drapes, tapestries, and wallpapers make for the perfect backdrop for the books you'll find here.
Tango at La Milonga del Indio or La Viruta
Do not come back home from Buenos Aires without having tried the Tango. At the La Milonga del Indio, you'll find an older crowd, compared to the La Viruta where the younger lot awaits you.
Visit the Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires
Called MALBA for easier use, the Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires is a contemporary art museum. You'll find the finest exhibits of Latin American Art here.
Enjoy some time at Teatro Colón
If you are lucky to get tickets to a performance at Teatro Colón, it'll be the best ballet or opera you'll ever witness. If you aren't in time for a performance, a guided tour would be a great experience too.
Shop at San Telmo's Plaza Dorrego
Spend a day shopping at the antique marketplace in San Telmo's Plaza Dorrego. You might stumble upon an antique that might be a great deal.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires is the third safest city in South America. This is enough to keep you at peace that you won't be having major security concerns on your trip. However, there is always a possibility of certain annoyances and you are always better off if you stay prepared.
Here are some things to be wary of when traveling to Buenos Aires
Keep Your Electronics Safe
Phones, laptops, and tablets are hot commodities in Buenos Aires. That's due to the heavy import duties on electronics. This means they are the hottest target for pickpockets. Keep your electronics hidden and use them as discreetly as possible.
Stay Aware of Your Surroundings
Stay generally aware of anything fishy. It is important to also keep your eyes on the ground while you walk as not all dog owners pick up after their dogs. Stepping on left-behind waste can be a nuisance if you aren't careful.
Public Transport Safety
Public transport is usually safe in Buenos Aires. However, to err on the side of caution, it is better to go for booked taxis during the night.
General Caution
Whether you are traveling in a group or alone, make sure you are never out of your wits. Do not consume drugs or drink too much alcohol. This is an open invitation to scammers and pickpockets who'll consider you an easy target.
Pick Up Some Spanish
The local police are usually courteous and you are likely to not face any issues with them, but it may be important to pick up some Spanish to assist with any language barrier that may be present.
Before You Travel to Buenos Aires - Do This
- Keep the paperwork safe. From passports and visas to cash, cards, and IDs, keep all your important documents safe. Have photocopies of all the papers. You can also create a folder on your electronic device for an additional, online copy.
- Do not get intimidated by what you hear online about Buenos Aires. The Internet brings a lot of information to your fingertips, but a lot of it is skewed. If you have heard a lot of horror stories about tourists having a tough time in Argentina, chances are you are looking at only one side of the story. Do not let someone else's experience affect your decision to explore Buenos Aires. Go armed with common sense and you'll be just fine.