JAN 2009
As with every New Year's celebration in Argentina, explosive fireworks filled the night
sky on December 31st, welcoming 2009 with a vibrant display of fuegos artificales as
the clock struck midnight. Economic distress has plagued much of the world in recent
months, but we are hopeful for a bright and successful future. The local travel industry
continues to grow, with new and prestigious hotels ready to open their doors in the
next few months. The summer season is in full swing, with peak travel times alluring
international visitors from across the globe. Government officials continue to discuss
the current state of Aerolineas Argentinas, hoping to convert the airline into a reliable
carrier worldwide. As for tourists, there are still rumors of a possible "reciprocity tax" to
be required later this year upon arrival into Buenos Aires. Either way, it will be a Happy
New Year!
As with every New Year's celebration in Argentina, explosive fireworks filled the night
sky on December 31st, welcoming 2009 with a vibrant display of fuegos artificales as
the clock struck midnight. Economic distress has plagued much of the world in recent
months, but we are hopeful for a bright and successful future. The local travel industry
continues to grow, with new and prestigious hotels ready to open their doors in the
next few months. The summer season is in full swing, with peak travel times alluring
international visitors from across the globe. Government officials continue to discuss
the current state of Aerolineas Argentinas, hoping to convert the airline into a reliable
carrier worldwide. As for tourists, there are still rumors of a possible "reciprocity tax" to
be required later this year upon arrival into Buenos Aires. Either way, it will be a Happy
New Year!
FEB 2010
The New Year has brought great news for Argentina tourism in the form of positive
press in Travel + Leisure magazine. We hope travelers will now find themselves even
more inclined to visit Argentina. In the Feb 2010 issue of T+L, Buenos Aires is featured
amidst a luxurious list of 30 Romantic Dream Trips. In fact, the "French-colonial buildings"
that populate the "posh Recoleta neighborhood" provide the perfect setting for the new
Algodon Mansion - a hotel that has just opened its doors to world travelers seeking
wine-inspired spa treatments and rooftop tango lessons at sunset. Romantic indeed.
Just last month (Jan 2010 issue), T+L also released its list of the World's 500 Best
Hotels. To no surprise, 8 of Argentina's most distinguished properties were featured on
the exclusive list. Our personal pick in Buenos Aires would have to be the luxurious
Alvear Palace. As for Patagonia, Llao Llao Resort continues to be the landmark gem .
The New Year has brought great news for Argentina tourism in the form of positive
press in Travel + Leisure magazine. We hope travelers will now find themselves even
more inclined to visit Argentina. In the Feb 2010 issue of T+L, Buenos Aires is featured
amidst a luxurious list of 30 Romantic Dream Trips. In fact, the "French-colonial buildings"
that populate the "posh Recoleta neighborhood" provide the perfect setting for the new
Algodon Mansion - a hotel that has just opened its doors to world travelers seeking
wine-inspired spa treatments and rooftop tango lessons at sunset. Romantic indeed.
Just last month (Jan 2010 issue), T+L also released its list of the World's 500 Best
Hotels. To no surprise, 8 of Argentina's most distinguished properties were featured on
the exclusive list. Our personal pick in Buenos Aires would have to be the luxurious
Alvear Palace. As for Patagonia, Llao Llao Resort continues to be the landmark gem .
MAR 2008
Each year, during the first week of March, thousands of international tourists and local
residents gather in Mendoza to take part in the festivities of La Vendimia – a weeklong
celebration dedicated to the annual wine harvest. Vineyards across the valley serve
endless glasses of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, while city avenues are filled with
glamorous parades – brilliant floats, vibrant dances, and beautiful pageant queens
tossing grapes and melons into the crowd. Of course, you must applaud the efforts of
so many young cowboys and cowgirls demonstrating their skills in the streets. Since
Mendoza’s recent recognition as a prestigious World Wine Capital, local tourism has
increased greatly with the inversion of multiple fine hotels and luxury wineries.
Each year, during the first week of March, thousands of international tourists and local
residents gather in Mendoza to take part in the festivities of La Vendimia – a weeklong
celebration dedicated to the annual wine harvest. Vineyards across the valley serve
endless glasses of Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, while city avenues are filled with
glamorous parades – brilliant floats, vibrant dances, and beautiful pageant queens
tossing grapes and melons into the crowd. Of course, you must applaud the efforts of
so many young cowboys and cowgirls demonstrating their skills in the streets. Since
Mendoza’s recent recognition as a prestigious World Wine Capital, local tourism has
increased greatly with the inversion of multiple fine hotels and luxury wineries.
APR 2008
While numerous museums populate the city of Buenos Aires, MALBA (Museo de Arte
Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires) is perhaps the finest. Nestled along Avenida Alcorta
between the trendy Palermo and elegant Recoleta neighborhoods, MALBA contains
multiple halls overflowing with fine paintings and sculptures from world-renowned
artists. Inside, it is an honor to admire the strokes and textures as applied by Rivera and
Botera years ago, not to mention the grace of Frida Kahlo in “Autorretrato con Chango y
Loro”. While its elegance will attract all travelers, MALBA’s temporary exhibit dedicated
to the priceless works of Tarsila do Amaral is remarkable. An expert in modernism, and
a native Brazilian, Tarsila has created memorable paintings such as “Abaporu” and
“Anthropophagy” – both of which are currently on display in Argentina’s capital.
While numerous museums populate the city of Buenos Aires, MALBA (Museo de Arte
Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires) is perhaps the finest. Nestled along Avenida Alcorta
between the trendy Palermo and elegant Recoleta neighborhoods, MALBA contains
multiple halls overflowing with fine paintings and sculptures from world-renowned
artists. Inside, it is an honor to admire the strokes and textures as applied by Rivera and
Botera years ago, not to mention the grace of Frida Kahlo in “Autorretrato con Chango y
Loro”. While its elegance will attract all travelers, MALBA’s temporary exhibit dedicated
to the priceless works of Tarsila do Amaral is remarkable. An expert in modernism, and
a native Brazilian, Tarsila has created memorable paintings such as “Abaporu” and
“Anthropophagy” – both of which are currently on display in Argentina’s capital.
MAY 2008
Buenos Aires, the cultural metropolis of Argentina, offers hundreds of options for
travelers to discover brilliant works of theater and music. International rock stars pack
soccer stadiums beyond capacity, and classical concerts fill the halls of Luna Park and
Teatro Cervantes. However, Teatro Colón is the leading masterpiece and cultural focal
point of the nation's capital. Recognized worldwide for its outstanding acoustics,
luxurious interior, and awe-inspiring architecture, the theater has been under renovation
since 2006. Since opening in its current location in 1908, Teatro Colón has been blessed
with the talents of Plácido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti, and numerous operas and
ballets. Despite celebrating 100 years this month, Teatro Colón might very well be closed
until 2010. Don't worry - private tours are still available inside designated areas of the
theater.
Buenos Aires, the cultural metropolis of Argentina, offers hundreds of options for
travelers to discover brilliant works of theater and music. International rock stars pack
soccer stadiums beyond capacity, and classical concerts fill the halls of Luna Park and
Teatro Cervantes. However, Teatro Colón is the leading masterpiece and cultural focal
point of the nation's capital. Recognized worldwide for its outstanding acoustics,
luxurious interior, and awe-inspiring architecture, the theater has been under renovation
since 2006. Since opening in its current location in 1908, Teatro Colón has been blessed
with the talents of Plácido Domingo, Luciano Pavarotti, and numerous operas and
ballets. Despite celebrating 100 years this month, Teatro Colón might very well be closed
until 2010. Don't worry - private tours are still available inside designated areas of the
theater.
JUNE 2008
We feel it is always important to recognize the great talents of local artists. Therefore,
we dedicate this month to the precious paintings of Mauro Cano, a native mendocino.
Currently this month, his works grace the walls of Mendoza's Municipal Museum of
Modern Art (located directly below the center fountains of Plaza de Independencia). His
oil paintings often depict desolate doorways of Chilecito (a rural town of La Rioja) and
the important individuals in his life. His brush strokes are largely inspired by his family:
Proyecto de Mujer Para Amar (right) captures the beauty of his dear wife. Born in
1978, Mauro currently works in his private studio and provides classes to various
students in the province. His works are also part of various private collections found
throughout the country. Please visit his website to learn more.
We feel it is always important to recognize the great talents of local artists. Therefore,
we dedicate this month to the precious paintings of Mauro Cano, a native mendocino.
Currently this month, his works grace the walls of Mendoza's Municipal Museum of
Modern Art (located directly below the center fountains of Plaza de Independencia). His
oil paintings often depict desolate doorways of Chilecito (a rural town of La Rioja) and
the important individuals in his life. His brush strokes are largely inspired by his family:
Proyecto de Mujer Para Amar (right) captures the beauty of his dear wife. Born in
1978, Mauro currently works in his private studio and provides classes to various
students in the province. His works are also part of various private collections found
throughout the country. Please visit his website to learn more.
JUL 2008
Ski season is in full swing once again in Argentina. Recognized as South America's ski
capitals, both Mendoza and Bariloche are packed with snow and international thrill
seekers. In Mendoza, Las Leñas is perhaps the most popular resort, thriving with
comfortable hotels and exhilarating slopes that cut across the Andes Mountains. Further
south, along the northern frontier of Patagonia, clients can carve powder along nearly
1500 acres of ski country on Cerro Catedral - the leading landmark of winter sports in
Bariloche. 53 trails wrap around the mountain, reaching nearly 6500 feet above sea
level. For all the snow lovers who don't like to ski, there are still plenty of full-day
excursions available. In Mendoza, Potrerillos and Upsallata both offer quiet streets, cozy
cabins, and direct views of surrounding snow-capped peaks. Bariloche offers lakeside
accommodations.
Ski season is in full swing once again in Argentina. Recognized as South America's ski
capitals, both Mendoza and Bariloche are packed with snow and international thrill
seekers. In Mendoza, Las Leñas is perhaps the most popular resort, thriving with
comfortable hotels and exhilarating slopes that cut across the Andes Mountains. Further
south, along the northern frontier of Patagonia, clients can carve powder along nearly
1500 acres of ski country on Cerro Catedral - the leading landmark of winter sports in
Bariloche. 53 trails wrap around the mountain, reaching nearly 6500 feet above sea
level. For all the snow lovers who don't like to ski, there are still plenty of full-day
excursions available. In Mendoza, Potrerillos and Upsallata both offer quiet streets, cozy
cabins, and direct views of surrounding snow-capped peaks. Bariloche offers lakeside
accommodations.
AUG 2008
Despite the winter season, warm temperatures and sunny afternoons can still be
enjoyed in the northwest region of Argentina. This vibrant cultural cradle offers modern
hotel accommodations, including the new Legado Mitico in the city of Salta. This historic
downtown mansion has been carefully restored and now stands as a "small
emblematic hotel" ideal for luxury travelers. Eleven distinct and spacious rooms capture
the legacies and myths of Argentina's northwest: from the spirituality of Wichi Indians to
the nobility of General Güemes. Following two years of inactivity, Salta's world famous
Train to the Clouds is operating once again. Starting this month, weekly departures will
begin for this 15-hour rustic locomotive journey, traversing breathtaking canyons and
bridges along a 270 mile roundtrip track, reaching altitudes of nearly 14,000 feet above
sea level.
Despite the winter season, warm temperatures and sunny afternoons can still be
enjoyed in the northwest region of Argentina. This vibrant cultural cradle offers modern
hotel accommodations, including the new Legado Mitico in the city of Salta. This historic
downtown mansion has been carefully restored and now stands as a "small
emblematic hotel" ideal for luxury travelers. Eleven distinct and spacious rooms capture
the legacies and myths of Argentina's northwest: from the spirituality of Wichi Indians to
the nobility of General Güemes. Following two years of inactivity, Salta's world famous
Train to the Clouds is operating once again. Starting this month, weekly departures will
begin for this 15-hour rustic locomotive journey, traversing breathtaking canyons and
bridges along a 270 mile roundtrip track, reaching altitudes of nearly 14,000 feet above
sea level.
FEB 2009
Wine valleys are bursting with color as vineyards begin to reveal the green and violet
tones of blossoming grapes. Despite the frequent hailstorms that haunt the Cuyo region
along Argentina's western frontier, experts are hopeful for a bountiful harvest in
Mendoza - one of eight world wine capitals. With vines planted centuries ago by Jesuit
missionaries, this productive terrain below the Andes Mountains boasts premium Malbec
and Merlot year after year. Fine wine cellars populate the countryside, inviting all guests
to learn of the wine-making process and taste the regional products. San Juan, just
north of Mendoza, is another popular stop along the nation's wine route. In Argentina's
northwest, Salta hosts several boutique vineyards in and around the southern town of
Cafayate. Such tours can also be combined with picturesque journeys across
Patagonia.
Wine valleys are bursting with color as vineyards begin to reveal the green and violet
tones of blossoming grapes. Despite the frequent hailstorms that haunt the Cuyo region
along Argentina's western frontier, experts are hopeful for a bountiful harvest in
Mendoza - one of eight world wine capitals. With vines planted centuries ago by Jesuit
missionaries, this productive terrain below the Andes Mountains boasts premium Malbec
and Merlot year after year. Fine wine cellars populate the countryside, inviting all guests
to learn of the wine-making process and taste the regional products. San Juan, just
north of Mendoza, is another popular stop along the nation's wine route. In Argentina's
northwest, Salta hosts several boutique vineyards in and around the southern town of
Cafayate. Such tours can also be combined with picturesque journeys across
Patagonia.
DEC 2009
As of December 20th, Argentina will now charge a $131 tourism tax to all travelers
arriving from the United States (paid with cash or credit card). This tax - termed a "visa
fee" - is equal to the visa processing fee Argentines have paid since 2002 before
entering the United States. In conjunction, Canadians will be charged $70 and
Australians $100 (based on reciprocal visa fees charged to Argentine citizens). At the
moment, the fee will only be paid inside Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires. The
motion was in discussion for several months among government officials, but was at
last signed into law this month following numerous objections from local travel
companies and international visitors. Is this the right time considering the global
economic situation? Time will tell. As for departure taxes, the current fee when leaving
Ezeiza International Airport is $29 - a large increase from the once $18 standard tax.
As of December 20th, Argentina will now charge a $131 tourism tax to all travelers
arriving from the United States (paid with cash or credit card). This tax - termed a "visa
fee" - is equal to the visa processing fee Argentines have paid since 2002 before
entering the United States. In conjunction, Canadians will be charged $70 and
Australians $100 (based on reciprocal visa fees charged to Argentine citizens). At the
moment, the fee will only be paid inside Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires. The
motion was in discussion for several months among government officials, but was at
last signed into law this month following numerous objections from local travel
companies and international visitors. Is this the right time considering the global
economic situation? Time will tell. As for departure taxes, the current fee when leaving
Ezeiza International Airport is $29 - a large increase from the once $18 standard tax.
AUG 2009
The winter season is coming to a close in Argentina. While frigid gusts of wind and
freezing temperatures will still haunt southern Patagonia until October, northern
Patagonia is closing its ski slopes and welcoming the warmer months of spring. Both
Neuquén and Río Negro provide access to the nation's Lake District, offering cozy
accommodations and nature excursions among multiple coastal villages. San Martín de
los Andes, Villa La Angostura, and San Carlos de Bariloche are the region's most
recognized destinations. We are offering customized trips throughout northern
Patagonia, including the Chapelco Golf & Resort, where Loi Suites has opened a 5-star
masterpiece hotel with 85 rooms and unparalleled views. The local course of the
Chapelco Golf Club is a creation of Jack Nicklaus, encompassing 18 holes (par 72) with
enchanting forests of towering pine trees and staggering mountains in the background.
The winter season is coming to a close in Argentina. While frigid gusts of wind and
freezing temperatures will still haunt southern Patagonia until October, northern
Patagonia is closing its ski slopes and welcoming the warmer months of spring. Both
Neuquén and Río Negro provide access to the nation's Lake District, offering cozy
accommodations and nature excursions among multiple coastal villages. San Martín de
los Andes, Villa La Angostura, and San Carlos de Bariloche are the region's most
recognized destinations. We are offering customized trips throughout northern
Patagonia, including the Chapelco Golf & Resort, where Loi Suites has opened a 5-star
masterpiece hotel with 85 rooms and unparalleled views. The local course of the
Chapelco Golf Club is a creation of Jack Nicklaus, encompassing 18 holes (par 72) with
enchanting forests of towering pine trees and staggering mountains in the background.
APR 2009
The northeastern province of MIsiones is a perfect retreat for nature lovers of all ages.
Inside Iguazú National Park, the thunderous boom of rushing water and crashing
cascades can be heard through the dense rainforest. With faint rainbows permeating
the numerous billows of mist below, tourists are quick to grab their cameras and take a
picture - despite droplets of water covering their lens. A rugged jeep ride through the
forest will bring you past lizards and wild coaties, with exotic birds perched in the green
canopy above. While Brazil offers breathtaking panoramic views of the falls, Argentina
allows clients to stare directly into The Devil's Throat, the park's most impressive gorge.
Walking trails and observations decks are available for self exploration, though exciting
rides aboard zodiac boats are offered to those daring thrill seekers hoping to get
soaked. This aquatic excursion will bring you closer to the falls than you imagined!
The northeastern province of MIsiones is a perfect retreat for nature lovers of all ages.
Inside Iguazú National Park, the thunderous boom of rushing water and crashing
cascades can be heard through the dense rainforest. With faint rainbows permeating
the numerous billows of mist below, tourists are quick to grab their cameras and take a
picture - despite droplets of water covering their lens. A rugged jeep ride through the
forest will bring you past lizards and wild coaties, with exotic birds perched in the green
canopy above. While Brazil offers breathtaking panoramic views of the falls, Argentina
allows clients to stare directly into The Devil's Throat, the park's most impressive gorge.
Walking trails and observations decks are available for self exploration, though exciting
rides aboard zodiac boats are offered to those daring thrill seekers hoping to get
soaked. This aquatic excursion will bring you closer to the falls than you imagined!
OCT 2009
In January of 1888, the National Geographic Society was formed in Washington DC.
Ever since, National Geographic has become a standard in journalistic excellence when
promoting cultural wonders and geographic marvels. This month, NG Traveler has
named Mendoza as one of its 50 Places of a Lifetime! In celebration of fine wine,
luxurious wineries, staggering mountains, high-end cuisine, and deluxe hotels, National
Geographic has selected Mendoza as one of just 5 such sites in South America. We
encourage avid readers to pick up the latest copy of NG Traveler to learn more. For our
clients, we recommend personal wine tours through Bodega Salentein (pictured), Ruca
Malen, and Carlos Pulenta's Vistalba among others. Interested in food? Then you must
dine at Bistro La Tupiña or the popular Azafrán. As for evening accommodations, we
work with luxurious downtown hotels and boutique cottages nestled below the Andes.
In January of 1888, the National Geographic Society was formed in Washington DC.
Ever since, National Geographic has become a standard in journalistic excellence when
promoting cultural wonders and geographic marvels. This month, NG Traveler has
named Mendoza as one of its 50 Places of a Lifetime! In celebration of fine wine,
luxurious wineries, staggering mountains, high-end cuisine, and deluxe hotels, National
Geographic has selected Mendoza as one of just 5 such sites in South America. We
encourage avid readers to pick up the latest copy of NG Traveler to learn more. For our
clients, we recommend personal wine tours through Bodega Salentein (pictured), Ruca
Malen, and Carlos Pulenta's Vistalba among others. Interested in food? Then you must
dine at Bistro La Tupiña or the popular Azafrán. As for evening accommodations, we
work with luxurious downtown hotels and boutique cottages nestled below the Andes.
SEP 2009
As of September 2009, tango will now be considered an essential element of the
world's cultural heritage. Following approval from the United Nations, this provocative
dance of southern South America has earned the official UNESCO seal of approval.
While the birthplace of tango is still disputed between Argentina and Uruguay - in part
due to the undetermined birthplace of legend Carlos Gardel - both nations came together
this month in a mutual sentiment of gratitude and excitement. Now popular with
mainstream television audiences, el tango has flourished in both Buenos Aires and
Montevideo since the late 1800s...fusing bodies across milonga dance floors through
sensual movements and sultry music. Travelers can witness this dance for themselves
while strolling the Florida Street shopping district or perusing the famous cobblestone
corners of El Caminito. We recommend El Querandi and Rojo Tango of Faena Universe.
As of September 2009, tango will now be considered an essential element of the
world's cultural heritage. Following approval from the United Nations, this provocative
dance of southern South America has earned the official UNESCO seal of approval.
While the birthplace of tango is still disputed between Argentina and Uruguay - in part
due to the undetermined birthplace of legend Carlos Gardel - both nations came together
this month in a mutual sentiment of gratitude and excitement. Now popular with
mainstream television audiences, el tango has flourished in both Buenos Aires and
Montevideo since the late 1800s...fusing bodies across milonga dance floors through
sensual movements and sultry music. Travelers can witness this dance for themselves
while strolling the Florida Street shopping district or perusing the famous cobblestone
corners of El Caminito. We recommend El Querandi and Rojo Tango of Faena Universe.