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I consider this an extremely safe city. I lived in the San Francisco, California area for 19 years and consider this much safer then San Francisco. However, that said, I would leave all expensive jewelry at home, including expensive watches. There is no reason to bring attention to yourself when you're spotted on the street as a tourist. There's just no reason to be flashing jewelry. Please take precautions, there are pickpockets here, it's safer then San Francisco (where I'm from) but you should always have your eyes open just like you would in any large city. Before you hit the streets, ask yourself, if I come home naked will I care if I'm missing anything?? Don't take anything out with you that you don't mind losing. If you have a nice gold watch or a favorite ring, leave it at home, in fact I would leave all jewelry at home, no reason to look flashy and be a target. If you carry a credit card, have the card number and the 800 number with your belongings at the hotel so you can call to report it stolen if necessary. I just call it "street smarts". I tell visiting friends, "Don't be paranoid about it" but be "street smart", keep your eyes open, carry very little jewelry and cash and then if something happens, you're not out anything, except maybe jostled nerves. My lover Ron now even carries a "dummy" wallet just in case we're held up, just so we have something to give the robber. It has some large Uruguayan bills in it (worth about 30 cents here) and some fake ID cards, we expect the robber won't investigate the contents till they're far away. You will see local woman walking down the street dressed to the 9s with mink coats, tons of jewelry and lots of necklaces, but I just prefer not to advertise. For women, small purses with long straps are good, you'll see woman wearing them with the purse around their shoulder but held in front of them (instead of off to the side or behind them) with their one hand resting on the purse. From: Samuel Warde, December 23, 2007 I find myself becoming very concerned when I read postings meant to paint Buenos Aires as being safer that the facts show. In some instances the information seems deliberately posted with false information. I have seen claims that Buenos Aires is the safest city in the world; I have read that it is so safe here that women walk around all hours of the night by themselves; I have even read that violent crime here in Buenos Aires is less than 16% that of the United States. Well when I decided to look into those claims I went first to the Ministerio de Justicia y Derechios Humanos de la Nacion Argentina, Direccion Nacional de Politica Criminal Secretaria de Politica Criminal y Asuntos Penitenciarios to find actual statistics from Argentina Government resourses regarding crime in this country http://wwwpolcrim.jus.gov.ar/ I then went to United States Department of Justice to see stats on that country http://www.fbi.gov/ucr/05cius/data/table_01.html And do you want to know what I found? I discovered that the rate of violent crime in Argentina is a little over 93% that of the United States which is a far cry from the less than 16% a person I saw posted. From: WalcottH, December 23, 2007 There is a lot of crime here. And yes it is dangerous. Friends of ours from the States who travel all over the world were recently visiting us. The wife was the one who noted that the women in this city dress down and wear little or no jewelry. Fear of crime. This is the first city we've been in where my wife has felt she must take off here engagement ring and store it. We haven't had to do that elsewhere. I'm a lot more cautious about and inhibited about taking out my SLR style digital camera to take pictures than I was when I first arrived here. This caution is at the advice of porteño friends. Fear of crime. Pickpockets, snatch and grabs, holdups in restaurants etc. aren't unique to Buenos Aires of course, but I think this isn't just another big city. I think the level of risk here is higher than it should be and warnings are important from whomever, including Cestelmo. Security was an election issue, but tourists and all of us should note that it doesn't appear to be an issue with the past or new administrations. From: Samuel Warde, December 23, 2007 Well, there is no doubt that crime and in particular violent crime is an issue here in Buenos Aires. But it is a stretch to characterize it as being higher than elsewhere in the world. As an American I only looked at statistics in the USA but you might be surprised at some of what I found. Violent crime in Argentina is a little over 93% that of the USA. As to city statistics the murder rates in Buenos Aires are lower per capita than that of most US cities to include: Boston, Denver and Houston. In fact San Diego and Seattle were two of the only major US cities with a lower rate. Property crimes stats per capita place Buenos Aires as being safer than Atlanta, Denver, Houston, Phoenix and Seattle just to name a few places. sources: United States stats http://www.fbi.gov/ucr/05cius/data/table_06.html#c Argentine Stats http://wwwpolcrim.jus.gov.ar/Snic/Ao2005/provincia/SnicCiudadBsAs2005.htm Buenos Aires is the tenth largest metropolitan area in the world larger even than Los Angeles which comes in at position twelve. Obviously crime is an issue here and by all stats and estimates it is getting worse. One must maintain the same level of caution that one would in any city in the world. I am very well traveled and Buenos Aires is certainly not the only city I would not wear jewelry in or carry an expensive SLR camera out in the open in; on the contrary, I felt much less safe in Paris, Munich, NYC, Detroit.................. As an aside I used to work as a project manager coordinating the opening of new stores from coast to coast in the USA for nearly ten years. I have had people killed in my parking lot in two states, had to drive a car to avoid random gunfire from an Euzi in one state, had windows shot out of too many states to remember how many, had my car broken into at the Washington Monument in D.C., had my hotel room broken into in a nice part of L.A................ Buenos Aires does not hold the monopoly on an expanding crime problem by any stretch of the imagination. I think as expats we sometimes feel more flustered because we are handicapped in a variety of ways that can make us more vulnerable to crime than others: language, a lack of knowledge of culture, a lack of understanding of the city and its various barrios are but a few of the things that we are often unable to fathom, particularly upon our initial arrival. The American Embassy here published an informative article in the latest newsletter regarding one type of crime to be wary of here the "Motochorros" or motorcycle bandits that are becoming more common here. Below is the link and the article is "item 4": Embassy Newsletter http://argentina.usembassy.gov/newsletter_for_american_citiznes_-_issue_2.html From: anjalbright, December 23, 2007 Since you mention the "motochorro", let me give you an example of what I mean. I think my wife already posted this story last year, but it's worth noting again for those who get to feeling too comfortable here. My wife and I do feel comfortable (as in pretty safe), but only because we almost never carry more than 30-40 pesos, always dress modestly, and keep an eye out for strange vibes. Anyways, here's the story... About 3 weeks after my wife and I first arrived, we witnessed a "motochorro" (or moped bandit) attack an American who was seated at an outdoor cafe. It was a lovely Tuesday in November, about 2:15 in the afternoon in Palermo Viejo, at a cafe called Mama Racha (I think it's at Costa Rica and Armenia). There were at least a hundred people outside eating or chatting and at least one police officer working the intersection. Nevertheless, the bandit wrestled a large American gym at of a tourist to the ground by coming up from behind him, pinning his chair against the table, and pounding him over the head repeatedly. Then the bandit hopped on the back of his co-bandit's nearby moped and they fled. Afterwards, the tourist said that the attacker had just ripped a $6k watch off of his arm and he showed us the cuts on his wrist and hand. He kept repeating that everyone told him it was safe here so he didn't worry about his watch. Well, it turns out that it's probably not safe to show that you have anything of value, even if it is firmly clasped to your arm. The amazing thing is that no one really made too much of a fuss about it. No one did a thing. No one seemed surprised. The cop on the opposite corner, was temporarily out of view. We even talked to some of the employees around the area and they said, "yeah, it does happen, that's why we keep the storefronts locked." I'm not trying to scare anyone, but I do think it's advisable to avoid making yourself a target, be it an engagement ring, camera, watch, whatever. From: Veronica Salvetti, May 18, 2006 I have been following this discussion and, being native I would say common sense is the rule. You may think that " common sense" may be different in different countries, well, just sit at some coffee store and spend 30 minutes or so looking through the window, choose any place on Corrientes, Santa or Cabildo, watch the people going by: the way they carry their purses and wallets, try to see if they carry a camera if you can see it, the dress code and different hours and weekdays vs weekends, etc. Make a list, and repeat it yourself :) From: Vanesa Kolodziej, May 18, 2006 This will be my recommendations (please feel free to send additional ones/ correct mines) (click here to return to topic heading) Re: Our last apartment had one of those video cameras that was tied into the cable system for the building, so you could flip to channel 99 and see the front entrance. From: Concepcion Dominguez, 3/24/2007 The video camera tied into the cable system was offered by Cablevision when they wanted to get more clients in a building. In this case the cost of TV by cable is payed with the "expensas". Look at their webpage www.cablevision.com.ar In "Suscripcion", "Consorcios" there is a form to fill in. Concepcion (click here to return to topic heading) Then you also have St. Stephen's! (do you know it Luigi? how's it by these days?) I agree on Woodville http://www.woodville.org/ being the best (it has been ever since I know it) and then the Primo Capraro www.capraro.com.ar ... Then you have an italian one, called La Dante which is the one I believe uses the Waldorf method http://www.dantebariloche.com.ar/index.php (not that sure about this W issue, you might wanna check) Best!! Nati From: Luis Ronchi, May 8, 2007 Bariloche has some excellent schools, the best one being Woodville. English & Spanish, it's a leading school in the area. Primo Capraro is the German one, also a top school, then St Patrick is an Irish one, there's also a Swiss, an Italian, etc I'd go for Woodville or St Patrick as a second option and then Capraro if you are interested in a good German type school. Teachers and students from a lovely community there. Woodville has a good choir and good arts and music programmes. Your son will like it and it's in such a lovely area of the country, in the burbs of Bariloche! (click here to return to topic heading) RE: We are moving to BsAs in August with 3 kids ages 10, 8, and 5. I have had no luck contacting schools to find out about openings. Do you suggest we move and try to get them into public school once we arrive? From: Frank Almeida, April 28, 2009 I also just wanted to add a couple of schools that will be in your area of Palermo. This is just a very short list and leaves out many others.
New Model International School
Pestalozzi - This one is in Belgrano, but close to the border between both neighborhoods.
These schools should also be able to help you out with getting other school information. They know more about what is out there. From: Julio Cesar Losua, April 28, 2009 School here starts in late february or early march. The school I know tha runs american or northern calendar is Asociacion de Escuelas Lincoln http://www.lincoln.edu.ar/
The Jewsih school I know is the Colegio Tarbut http://colegiotarbut.org/brochure/ , but they began in march. Both schools are located in Olivos, 16 km north of Buenos Aires.
From: rshpuntoff, April 27, 2009 I believe (and I stress believe) that the public schools will have to take your children by law, but you should bring EVERY document you can think of: medical records, birth records, school records. You can contact the Ministerio de Educacion but in general it is hard to get good information via phone or internet here. (click here to return to topic heading) Contact Alberto @ 0223 155 198 449 Great trainer, he has worked in Florida and L.A. with the police there. I also am not an advocate of carrying a weapon nor am I paranoid, but I like to train hard and figure I might as well train for something that may (or hopefully not) come in useful. (click here to return to topic heading) We are trying to start escritura on the sale of my apartment but have discovered we need to pay personal assets tax for 2005 and 2006 and then present utility bills to the AFIP for them to ''decide whether tax on rents is owed'' due to foreign ownership From: noimmediateplans, January 11, 2008 I think it's a little more complicated than that. I think you will have to get an accountant to prepare Bienes Personales statements for 2005 and 2006, and possibly for 2007. If you were a legal resident who was in Argentina for most of 2007 and the total value of the assets you have to declare was under whatever the exclusion limit now is (around US $100,000) then you don't owe for 2007. But my understanding is that the exclusions don't apply to non-residents. So for example, I was not able to exclude 102,000 pesos (or whatever the exact amount of exclusion was) in 2005, the year I bought my apartment, because I was legally resident in Argentina only for a couple of months that year. If you are a legal resident who is physically resident in Argentina for most of the year, then you are obliged to pay tax on all your assets, both inside Argentina and in the rest of the world. If you are non-resident, then you only have to pay on assets within Argentina. Okay, so just preparing the statements for each year can be a bit of a pain --- less so if you were non-resident and you only have the apartment to declare, but then you have to deal with the issue of whether or not the apartment really was vacant all those months. Once the statements are prepared, you are given a computer disk and you have to go file the taxes (at a central Pago Facil or at a bank that is equipped to do it) and then pay the taxes (and late penalties and interest), again at the Pago Facil or bank. Then with those receipts you are ready to deal with AFIP. You can't just go directly to AFIP, as far as I know, so I don't really understand why you are asking for a translator. No matter what, I think you have to file Bienes Personales for 2005-2006, and you would need an accountant for that, as far as I know. I think a lot of accountants are going to be in the price range you quoted, but I agree that you could probably get someone cheaper. However, if you are limited to working only with accountants who are fluent in English, you are probably going to have a hard time finding someone more reasonably priced. Hopefully your apartment has increased in value enough so that an additional $1500 in "closing costs" won't seem like such a huge amount! From: Daniela Melton, January 11, 2008 try my accountant- I think she will treat you fairly- Dra. Marta Sabella 4782 1062 From: Shahrukh Merchant, January 12, 2008 I actually have not sold any property in Argentina, nor directly investigated doing so, but I do have some second-hand hearsay information on what's required, from a real-estate agent friend who is actually going through this for a client from Europe right now. I'll probably have more information in the upcoming weeks as the transaction progresses, and hopefully Rick will share his first-hand experiences as well, but here is some (combined with some information that I already had earlier): 1. PROPERTY TAX. Yes, you need to pay a property tax on assets (this is not the ABL), that has slightly different rates and different exemptions for residents and non-residents, and also whether it is your only property in Argentina or a 2nd or subsequent one. The rate I believe varies between 0.75% and 1.25% but I could be slightly off on that. Technically you are supposed to pay it each year, but many people don't so when you do end up having to pay it (because you are selling your property and need the tax clearance from AFIP), you pay interest on top of that. The valuation used for the property tax is apparently based on a formula that relates the original purchase price, the selling price and the fiscal valuation. In addition, if it's an older escritura that has a different currency (USD or Austral or whatever), then there is another calculation to do the conversion and relate it to the exchange rate at the time. Interestingly, it appears (take this with a grain of salt) that there is actually a built-in incentive NOT to pay this tax every year, since AFIP will apparently only make you pay the previous 5 years, so if you've had your property longer than that, you might make out by not paying it. 2. INCOME TAX ON IMPUTED RENTAL INCOME. AFIP will also assume an income on this property for non-residents based on some formula for estimated rental income. It is YOUR burden to prove that you did not receive rental income from this property. There is no prescription for what this proof consists of, but it could include: - Entry and exit stamps to demonstrate that you were in the country (and therefore at least potentially living in the apartment in question); - Utility bills to show low usage during the time that the apartment was vacant because you were travelling and the apartment was allegedly vacant (KEEP all your utility bills always!; Needless to say, if you have two or more apartments, this gets more complicated. Even if one is a small one downtown that you use to as a city pad and the other is a villa in Zona Norte, you will have to come up with a creative and credible explanation. There are forms for each of these, and some of this information MUST be filed electronically with systems that only accountants have. If you've held the property for only a short time, the amount of taxes might be small enough that you're better off just paying it, rather than deal with the additional time and expense of proving a lower number, even if it is true. 3. RESPONSIBLE POWER OF ATTORNEY "GUARANTOR": Here's the kicker. As a non-resident, you will need an Argentine resident to sign as a responsible party for any back-taxes that might be assessed after you skip the country. If you don't have some pretty good friends who trust you enough, this may be a real problem. In addition, there are some sub-tramites associated with this: (a) If the residence of this poder (this designated power of attorney) is controlled by a different AFIP office than the one you got your CDI, you have to do a tramite to transfer your CDI to that office; (b) If this poder has "irregularities" with AFIP (e.g., back taxes due), these will also have to be straightened out before AFIP will accept that person; (c) A procedure has to be done by the accountant to link the AFIP record (clave fiscal) of the poder with the CDI of the seller (and all this has to be done in the right sequence). 4. RANDOM OTHER REQUIREMENTS Needless to say, your mileage WILL vary, and these "requirements" will be applied inconsistently. One office will insist that something is absolutely required and another AFIP office may not even have heard of this requirement. Here is one example that was needed in the case of the client of my friend: - A statement of residency from that person's home country, i.e., something "official" that says, "We certify that so-and-so is a resident of XXX country on this date." Now, this may be impossible to get, e.g., it doesn't really exist in the US where residency is a subjective concept "proven" when it needs to be by a combination of where you've lived, where you work, where you own property, where you have bank accounts, where you have library cards, where you are registered to vote, etc., etc., and if furthermore determined at a state level and not a national level. (In this case they were able to persuade AFIP that a signed sworn statement was good enough.) - Other sworn statements e.g., that the property was never rented out. 5. CAPITAL GAINS TAX Don't know about this one yet. But surely it will apply (at least for non-residents not buying another property to replace the sold one). Any costs for documented improvements (renovations, new appliances, etc.) can probably be applied to reduce capital gains, so make sure to save all the papers. 6. REPATRIATION OF FUNDS Don't know about this one yet either. Now, to get to the original question of an accountant and how much it should cost, my friend says that for all the work it has taken their accountant so far, and for what remains, that it is unlikely to be less than $1500, and more likely $2000-$2500 (pesos). That's an accountant with which they have had a long-term relationship (and almost certainly doesn't speak English). So US$1500 sounds on the high side but not completely out of line. If it is one that will not only do the work but will also go to bat for you, analyzing all your facturas and persuading AFIP to accept significantly lower estimates, persuade them to forgive part of the debt (it can be done, I am told), etc., it may be quite a reasonable price. Complicating all this is that in fact very few accountants actually seem to know how to do this since it is not a frequent tramite as yet, relatively speaking, that a foreigner sells a property, so finding one who has done this is probably difficult, and you may need to be content with one who is resourceful enough to figure out how to do it. In addition, AFIP's system as well as some of the rules are new as of 2007, so even AFIP employees are confused on specifics. My friend also said that technically it is part of the escribano's responsibility, but that many escribanos have walked away from it saying that they would rather lose their fee on the case than deal with this. Also allow AT LEAST 20 days to get this done. Rick, please do share whatever information you do come up with on this list (whether it confirms, contradicts or supplements the above), since you will actually be going through it. From: Daniela Melton, January 13, 2008 I recently heard from my accountant that personal assets tax on properties and holdings valued under 300,000 PESOS will not be taxed- the law changed in 07 From: noimmediateplans, January 13, 2008 The law DID change recently --- the amount of exclusion was raised to 300,000 pesos (previously it had been something like 102,000 pesos). And there is a graduated scale that I don't think was in place earlier (plus the percentages changed). There were several articles in Clarin about the changes, so you can probably just search their web site for more information. But the 300,000 peso exclusion applies only to LEGAL RESIDENTS (ie, Argentine citizens or those with residence visas --- NOT tourist visas) who lived in Argentina for most of the year (I think the length of time is something like 9 or 10 months, but I don't remember exactly). If you were living outside Argentina for most of the year, or if you were never a legal resident here, only a tourist on an expired or continually renewed tourist visa, then you don't qualify for the 300,000 peso exclusion. The Bienes Personales tax will be calculated on the full value of your property. But on the bright side, no one will question you about your assets outside Argentina, because those assets won't be subject to tax here. (click here to return to topic heading) I'm one of those "I HATE TO SHOP" guys, plus I'm REALLY PICKY, but I finally had to buy some shoes, so off I went down Sante Fe, previously there were several stores I had spied before, and sneered at as I went knowing I would need to return one day. Oggi - Calzado para Hombre (click here to return to topic heading) Trinidad Goyeneche is and amazing singer and a very experienced singing teacher. 4361-6268 / 15-4081-8613 / mtg451@hotmail.com From: alex borodin, August 08, 2006 I have been part of this group for several months and have not really let everybody know what I do. So, when this "singing lesson" subject was raised, I thought...what the heck...let the folks know! I am a musician, singer, pianist, teacher and vocal coach. I hold a master's degree in music performance from a Canadian university and have over 18 years of experience. I speak English, French and Spanish. Currently I am working on the translation of important texts on vocal technique from Spanish to English and working on postgraduate studies in that same area. I am available for private lessons, masterclasses and workshops as both a pianist and a singer. For more information, please check out my website: www.michaelangell.com Versatility, experience and a deep love for music are trademarks of my work. So, please be in touch if you have any questions. Michael 15-6454-8783 From: Steve Glass, Aug 5, 2006 Livia Barbosa is an excellent voice and singing teacher. She is well-trained and a professional performer who gives private (click here to return to topic heading)
From: Michael Adam Jablecki, December 29, 2007 Re: how does a person from the United States call an ARG mobile phone here via Skype? Note: Cell phone numbers in Argentina start with 15 then are followed by 8 digits, home phone numbers are just 8 digits. +54911 then the 8 digits after the 15 has worked for me in the past... give it a try! From: Sean, December 29, 2007 Here is the answer: +54-9-(city code with no zero)-(do not type 15)-(phone number) So in other words, the 9 indicates a cell phone so no need to type 15, but notice the 9 comes before the city code when dialing from abroad Example for a BA cell number: +54-9-11-xxxx-xxxx (click here to return to topic heading) This may be a good alternative: http://argentineslang.wordpress.com/ From: Jude, January 12, 2007 Note: This site requires an invitation to read http://aestheticargentina.blogspot.com/2007/01/accidentally-making-horrendous-mistakes.html It could save a few red faces. Or it might be a welcome addition to your vocabulary...who knows!!! (click here to return to topic heading) Re: Where is the place to go/thing to do to meet folks?
From: Dan, January 22, 2010 as for the traveling, have you considered www.couchsurfing.com ?
you'll meet local culture better, practice languages, I mean, see the real life wherever you go. All my experiences were positive, locally and in the states. (click here to return to topic heading)
From: yoyvos705, December 26, 2007 Why don't you contact the office of Sotheby's here in BA. At the very least they would have the expertise if not to certify it,,to at least verify the authenticity and perhaps get it to the appropriate auction site in Europe. Office Information Edificio Kavanagh Overview Sotheby's Buenos Aires office is a valuable resource for our local clients and our staff here welcomes the opportunity to assist you with all of your purchasing and consigning needs. With the help of Sotheby's international experts in all areas of fine and decorative art, jewelry, wine, books and collectibles, we are able to assist you in identifying and valuing your personal property. If you would like to pursue such an evaluation, please be sure to call the office prior to visiting. The Buenos Aires office is also happy to answer any questions you may have about upcoming sales, facilitate absentee bids, or arrange for the shipment of consigned or purchased property. Contacts Adela Mackinlay de Casal (click here to return to topic heading) Sour cream is actually pretty easy to make. I do it all the time. It just takes some cream and a tablespoon or so of buttermilk (which is incredibly easy to make) and about 24 hours. If you Google a bit you can find tons of recipes. From: gmgattone, Nov 10, 2008 Uldb - it depends on how you plan to use your sour cream. For example, if you want to make a dip for when your friends come over - you can take a small cup of mendicream, add salt and pepper and onion powder with a dash of some optional olive oil and crushed red pepper - and you have what everyone thinks is sour cream dip* From: gringoporteno, Oct 27, 2008 You can make a kick-butt sour cream by mixing 2 parts Mendicrem or Casancrem and 1 part plain, unflavored yogurt (para cocinar), plus a squirt of lemon which tops it off. It isn't necessary, but if you really really want it like sour cream... From: damienargentina, June 30, 2007 Best substitute for sour cream here: 1 carton of cream (360ml here, or 1-1/2 cups), juice of 1 lemon, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and let it sit out somewhere warm for about 2-3 hours. For buttermilk, 1/2 liter of milk, 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice, shake it up and let it sit for about 20 minutes. From: María Candelaria Cicardo, Apr 9, 2007 Here there's no sour cream... but you can make it. You have to whip cream and lemon juice altogether From: Peter J. Macay, Nov 12, 2006 They have something called "Mendecreme" and add a tablespoon of vinegar. From: Juhi Manwani, Nov 12, 2006 i use mendicreme or a newer similar product casancrem which is smoother. some people add some lemon juice to either to make it taste more like sour cream. i hv used both as a substitute in many recipes for dips and cakes and it works well. (click here to return to topic heading)
From: Peter J. Macay, October 3, 2018
MercoSur, officially Southern Common Market (Portuguese: Mercado Comum do Sul or Mercosul; Guarani: Ñemby Ñemuha) is a South American trade bloc established by the Treaty of Asunción in 1991 and Protocol of Ouro Preto in 1994. Its full members are Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay. Venezuela is a full member but has been suspended since December 1, 2016. Associate countries are Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru and Suriname. Observer countries are New Zealand and Mexico. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercosur
(click here to return to topic heading)
From: BA Events, June 27, 2008 www.saexplorers.org/clubhouses/buenosaires SAE is a nonprofit organization that provides travelers with services, as well as unbiased advice and information. SAE offers travel and BA setup advice, hundreds of discounts in South America, weekly events and classes, free internet and Wifi access, luggage storage, a library/book exchange and shop, 3 other clubhouses in Lima, Cusco, Quito, and much more! Meet the staff at the cozy clubhouse over a cup of tea to find out more about SAE! Check out their website for more information and for current event schedules. For info, recommendations, and events sign up for our weekly newsletter by sending a blank message to saebuenosaires-subscribe@yahoogroups.com We sell guidebooks here from $30-75 AR pesos on South America and a wide variety of its countries from Argentina to Mexico. We have Lonely Planet, Footprint, Rough Guides and more! We also have a ton of guidebooks in our reference library, which is accessible to members. Email: baclub@saexplorers.org From: Marcia Ley, August 04, 2006 Yes, we sell guidebooks here. No Rough Guides in stock at the moment but we have LP, Footprints and Bradts. We sell them at cover price and the LP Argentina is US$25 (although the Footprints is better and the same price). SAE members get a $2 discount. We also have a ton of guidebooks in the reference library. (click here to return to topic heading) Re: Books by Dorothy Richmond and other suggested study material It's a good book. But it isn't one you can keep in your pocket. That is why I made up the list of verbs so I didn't have to thumb through its dictionary to find a word. Click here for EXCEL SPREADSHEET on Spanish-Argentine Verbs (click here to return to topic heading) There's also another "Spanish word of the day" email I receive from about.com. About.com also has a lot of online lessons on Spanish. Here's the link for the word of the day: From: Stefano, May 20, 2009 After reading the translation emails it occurred to me that I receive an email everyday with a new Spanish word outlining the meaning in English, the link is included below. It´s free no strings attached, no spam and no other crap attached. Just subscribe. (click here to return to topic heading) My favorite book on spanish verbs is the Spanish Verb manual, correct conjugation and regional use by Alfredo Gonzálex Hermoso. The grammatical system section is clear and systematic. The verb tables section is what makes the book to me. The auxillaries , haber, tener, ser and estar are first listed and then the ar, er and ir conjugations with models for passive and reflexive. With ar verbs, the regular verb (ex: cantar) is first modeled with the endings spaced so you can easily see the word construction. For instance, cant o and cantar é. The next set of conjugations, each is given its own page but the where the conjugations differ from the regular form are boldened so you can emphasize learning only the exceptions. At the end of the book is a list of 5000 verbs with a translation, a section with prepositions used with each verb, a section with idiomatic and figurative expressions and a section of regional usage. Many of the verbs that are specific to Argentina relate to human-equine relationships. My spanish is horrible but it would be alot worse without this book. I got it through Amazon.com. I have the 5000 verb list with translations and verb model in an excel spreadsheet for anyone who wants a copy. My ex speaks 5 languages, including Chinese and Spanish and she says her trick is to concentrate on verbs since names of things are so easily remembered. From: pdeyba, May 4, 2007 Please post again when the new Richmond book on vocabulary is available (only in the States, presumably). She is excellent. The best combination of explanation/analysis/practice that I have found are two books by Gordon and Stillman: "The Ultimate Spanish Review and Practice," and "The Ultimate Spanish Verb Review and Practice." I've never seen either of them in BA or anywhere outside the US. The best book I've found for really learning Spanish vocabulary, and all the nuances among words that might be considered "synonyms," is by Batchelor, called "Using Spanish Synonyms." How it works: take, for example, the word and concept "esteril." This book explains, through examples, the differences in meaning between esteril,yermo, arido, infructuoso, improductivo, ineficaz, infecundo, insuficiente, inutil, and pobre. It also explains which of them are used in everyday speech, which in casual writing, and which in "high" speech and "serious" writing. Plus, it tells which can be used figuratively as well as literally. It is fully indexed, so you can find where to get an explanation of the particular nuances of any word. Finally, the best Spanish-Spanish dictionary (i.e., one that keeps you within the Spanish language to find definitions, relationships among words, and so forth) that I have found is, by far, Larousse's "Gran Dictionario Usual de la Lengua Espanola." It is crucial to get the dictionario "Usual," and NOT the dictionario "Esencial." The dictionario "Usual" is white, paperback, and says on the front cover "1880 paginas, 70,000 entradas, 144,000 acepciones." As far as I know, the current edition is the second, published in 2004. From: Brian Huff, May 1, 2007 Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses by Dorothy Richmond all three titles by dorothy richmond are excellent. (click here to return to topic heading)
From: Peter J. Macay, December 15, 2009 I found a really great program to learn Spanish, it was recorded in Buenos Aires which makes it really fun because it's so specific about living here, the places, street slang (lunfardo), the customs, and the "porteño" way of life. There are two hosts, a man and a woman who are young and have a really funny banter between them. This makes the lessons interesting and fun to listen to, you won't fall asleep during these Spanish Lessons! The quality of the sound is excellent, something I found annoying with other learning classes that were just digitized from old cassette tape courses. The program runs on your PC so you can see the written dialogue along with listening to it. You can also download the courses to your mobile device, I have a little player I can watch the lessons while running on the treadmill at the gym. Audio only files are also provided to listen to while driving or doing other chores. Really fun course, with the interaction of the hosts there is a "story" of their lives that goes along with the course which keeps you listening and waiting to see what happens between them. I've tried lots of Spanish Course programs and I think this is the best.
Bueno, entonces... learn Spanish (click here to return to topic heading)
From: Travis Wagner, March 21, 2010 Re: advanced spanish lessons? This lady is an awesome teacher. Only advanced level. She lives in San Isidro. From: Mariana Valdarez, January 27, 2010 I can highly recommend a Spanish institute located in downtown Buenos Aires, the corner of 9 de Julio and Viamonte.
From: Blanche Duran, January 25, 2010 I can reccommend Lucem Institute. It's in Palermo Avenida Cordoba and Dorrego. The courses are highly communicative and they have students all of ages.I had classmates in their forties and fifties and also in their twenties when I attended a Spanish course there.
From: Emilia Ramirez, January 22, 2010 I just wanted to let the group know that my mom, a native Argentine, is back in Buenos Aires and available for Spanish lessons/conversation. She has taught Spanish in the US to students and homeschoolers, as well as professionals - Spanish for the health and business fields. Re: My mom is coming to town in June and is looking for a school/institute/ course to take an intensive 1/2 day course for 2 weeks. She is an intermediate Spanish speaker. Does anyone have any good ideas? From: Mandy, January 15, 2010 I took spanish classes at VOS Buenos Aires www.vosbuenosaires.com and can highly recommend them. It's a great school with a very familiar atmosphere. They offer intensive courses in the morning from 9-13hs and the students are from all ages, not only college kids. ;) Details about the different spanish courses: http://www.vosbuenosaires.com/spip.php?rubrique16
From: Pia, January 15, 2010 Hola Carol
From: Natalia, November 23, 2009 I like Spanglish. I've met a lot of pple there and have made a lot of friends with both local and expats that I habg with regularly outside Spanglish with.
This is what I pulled from their website http://www.spanglishexchange.com/ From: Kent, November 22, 2009 I just completed a 3 hour per day, 4 week survival Spanish course at Tefl International. The school offers certification in teaching English as a second language, but also offers 3 levels of spanish. The first level focuses on present tense and useful conversational skills for beginners. Because I have some Spanish and language facility, I chose the level 2 class which focused on pronouns, past verb tenses, conversational, and writing skills. Useful Porteno expressions were also included and we daily increased our vocabulary by exploring a variety of topics, such as the environment, economics, daily living, etc. Yes, there was homework so be prepared to commit more than 3 hours and for possible burnout.
Finally my Porteño friends notice the improvements in my comprehension and verbal skills. From: eveweinbaum, November 21, 2009 I wanted to recommend a Spanish course that we took when we first arrived in Buenos Aires -- it is perfect for newcomers! It's called Espanol 4D http://espanol4d.blogspot.com . It meets 4 days in a row, for a couple of hours each day, and you meet in different neighborhoods in the city. They help you figure out how the transportation system works, how to order in a restaurant, how to find what you want in a supermarket -- all the essentials -- and you learn by actually doing these things. You also get an introduction to the city and get to see some of the major sights. We are a family of 5 and we did it together very successfully -- enough moving around to keep the kids from getting bored and enough detail to keep the adults totally engaged. From: Kamal Daher, May 2, 2009 i am looking at the www.ilee.com.ar have you heard of them?
From: Peter J. Macay, April 2, 2009 University of Buenos Aires (UBA) classes are excellent and the best bang for your buck. Be aware there are many branches of UBA around the city, but I heard they don't all teach the same courses, they are just affiliates, the one downtown is the "real" UBA. Their website on courses http://www.idiomas.filo.uba.ar/extranjeros/ingles/cursos/regulares.htm
From: anjalbright, January 13, 2008 We highly recommend our Spanish tutor, Marco Luccon. He's an excellent instructor; he's very knowledgeable, always has an interesting lesson planned, and is able to work on your specific needs. He's also very organized and always on time. Most importantly, he has a great personality and he's really funny, so we enjoy taking classes from him. The following is his contact information. Luccon www.hablarenbsas.com hablarenbsas@hotmail.com 4825-7817cel. 15-5709-2577 Again, we highly recommend him. If you have any questions, please feel free to email us off-line and we'd be happy to answer your questions. From: Tania Lee, January 13, 2008 I can personally reccomend Gisela Giunti, she is not only a fantastic spanish teacher and acredited in the Lonely Planet but she is also very fun, patient and makes your classes a real pleasure. Her email is: giseela@yahoo.com From: Daniela Buira, December 04, 2007 Try IBERO Spanish School in 150 Uruguay st. Phone number: 5218-0240. www.iberospanish.com They have highly professional & personalized Spanish teaching programs. Told them that Daniela from www.homeinargentina.com.ar sent you and they will make their very best to please you. From: Nélida G. Vila, December 04, 2007 I am the coordinator of Buenos Aires Centre - Learn Spanish in Argentina, if you would like to contact me you can obtain special rates for small groups in our school, http://www.buenosairescentre.com.ar We are a Spanish school accreddited by the Association of Languages Schools of Argentine Republic, organization recognized by Instituto Cervantes, Chancellery, and Tourism Secretary. From: Diana, December 04, 2007 I recommend you Mrs Alicia Rotman. she teaches private lessons, very nice person. she will help you a lot. Her rates are a bargain!You can reach her at aliciarotman@hotmail.com She has her own book and method. she also teachs about argentine culture like cooking, literature and a lot of etc. From: chegringo57, December 04, 2007 I've been talking to Jaime by messaging, but I have now discovered that it is something that people need to be aware of. There are Spanish instutes claiming to be the UBA, but are not, these are 'truchos'. One is here: http://www.cui.edu.ar/secretaria/espanol/?page=uba_cui It even says, the Universidad de Buenos Aires and uses a similar, if not identical, symbol. However, the true UBA, filosofia y letras section dedicated to Espanol para Extranjeros is located here: http://www.idiomas.filo.uba.ar/index_html And downtown on the corner of the 25 de Mayo and Peron street. You can recognize it by the dilapidated building and 50 cent web page. Although these other Spanish institutes might be accredited institutes, some might also be not. The problem might come when you need to show your evidence of completing such a course. I discovered this when I called the UBA and noticed they are not enrolling for any classes currently. For those intersted, UBA offers placement tests January 3rd and 4th, from 9:30 to 11:30 and 2 to 5. Classes start the 7th. A warning; this is the one appointment you will ever make in Argentina that you will actually want to show up early for. Hope this helps. Keep on the look out for 'truchos' down here. From: apogorelc, December 04, 2007 I took classes at a couple different schools (and checked out others) as well as worked with tutors. I found IBL to be the best way to learn. http://www.ibl.com.ar/ One thing you want to look at is the school's books. I found IBL had the most professional and comprehensive books. We not only learned grammer, but also listened to popular music, to both understand the words sung and the meanings, as well as watched movies in Spanish and read stories by Borges and other famous Argentinians. How many people can understand the songs they listen to on the radio? I found it really helpful! I not only learned grammer in the school, but about the culture and most importantly, to understand the fast speaking locals! From: Pia, July 5, 2007 Call ONEonONE Personalized Language Services. They provide one to-one, and two-to-one private lessons @ good prices/great service. www.oneononeargentina.com.ar 15-68604452 From: nudan2003, April 9, 2007 A good friend of mine gives Spanish classes. - All levels of language - Personalized, regular and intensive classes - Great class material (including audio) - A comfortable and well located studying environment - Classes geared toward specific goals (conversation, academics, business communication, getting to know people) Her name is Sonia. CONTACT Phone number: 4856-1055 Mobile : 156 155-1242 e-mail: spanishfirst@yahoo.com.ar From: Maggie Cowan-Hughes, April 23, 2007 http://www.idiomas.filo.uba.ar/mapa/lab/espanol.htm Maggie Cowan-Hughes +5411 4381 9153 +54911 (15) 4095 3023 www.tangofocus.com From: Tom Frost, May 1, 2007 Don't miss the grand opening of Vos Club Cultural tonight (Tuesday May 1st) at 8pm. Vos is the Spanish Immersion Club in BA. Address: Marcelo T. de Alvear 1459 Intersection: between Paraná and Uruguay Directions here: http://www.vosbuenosaires.com/spip.php?article34 As a student of this group's one-week Spanish immersion retreat, I can testify that I have never met a more dedicated group of teachers who are passionate about offering a wide variety of immersion activities. They go well beyond the usual Tango and Happy Hour gatherings. Check out the list of teachers and their specialties: Angel del Re Spanish teacher, Department of Multimedia Ana Tonelli Spanish teacher, Department of Photography Mariel Benaros Spanish teacher, Department of BA´s Nights Juan Leotta Spanish teacher, Department of Argentine Literature Fernanda Barranquero Spanish teacher, Department of Comparative Grammar and Composition Patricia Olivero Spanish teacher, Department of Mothers & Sons Magu Arrupe Spanish teacher, Department of Río de la Plata´s Music Carmen Pereyra Spanish teacher, Department of Alternative Art For more information, please see their site at: http://www.vosbuenosaires.com From: marcoluccon, May 1, 2007 Sorry, I wanted to add my web page: http://www.hablarenbsas.com.ar Thanks! --- In BANewcomers@yahoogroups.com, "marcoluccon" <hablarenbsas@...> wrote: I'm Marco and I give private lessons at $25 pesos/hour or in groups of 2-4 for $18/hour. The classes are in my apartment located in Palermo near the Alto Palermo shopping mall, which is set up nicely for that purpose. I will first evaluate you to see at what level you are at. The evaluation consists of a few multiple choice questions. From> there we can arrange how many classes you want to take and for how long. MSN: hablarenbsas@... Phone: 4825 - 7817 From: Dan Goldberg, June 29, 2007 I recently returned to New York City after four terrific months in BA. I wanted to share a few recommendations... Spanish Language Study I was immensely fortunate to study Spanish with Graciana Mendez. She is simply the best private teacher I could ever imagine. She is professional, committed, flexible, and intelligent. She takes her teaching very seriously and gives her lessons an incredible amount of thought. I studied with her two hours a day and learned more than I could ever have imagined. I couldn't recommend her more highly. She can be reached at: bacn@fibertel.com.ar . From: bakerlibros, July 5, 2007 You can call Silvia Drikier 4431-3757 155693-4184 Very talented teacher, nice person, she gives private lessons. You can tell I gave her telephone number so she knows where you come from. good luck, Rodolfo From: ederonde, August 29, 2006 Clases de Teatro para Extranjeros Try a new approach to learning Spanish: classes of improvisation theatre by 2 enthusiastic, humorous and professional teachers in a friendly environment in a very small "theatre" in Jean Joures. In a group of appr. 10 people of various nationalities you exercise with plays, short improvisations and body language. Spanish on the spot! Further there are frequent visits to cosy, living room type theaters you would not find yourself and you meet new friends from 24 - 50 years, all in spanish of course! Join and have fun! For information: Fernando / Lucia From: goldkind03, September 04, 2006 I'll chip in my two pesos on a couple of other things later, but for now I just want to pass on the names of two Spanish teachers that I found to be excellent in every way. (in alphabetical order, lest you think I have a preference) Elizabeth Echarri, eliecharri@hotmail.com & Lorena Valcarce, lorena_valcarce@yahoo.com.ar I suppose I could find telephone numbers for them, but I can safely say that these email addys work and they will definitely respond. I had a tough time finding non-flaky private instructors but in the end I was really glad things turned out as they did. I recommend both of these teachers strongly, and without reservation. From: jackiekostick, September 2, 2006 Karina Debard is one of the best Spanish teachers that I have encountered during my 2 years in BA. She always arrives with a prepared lesson plan,is a dedicated instructor and her prices are reasonable. Karina is currently teaching other English speaking family members and is also a language professor at the University of Buenos Aires. For home lessons in the Capital area, contact Karina at 155-3333-218. From: Paul p_beith, September 03, 2006 A young man I know has received his degree to teach Spanish as a second language. Sebasti¨¨n has great interest in languages and is a "class act." Sebasti¨¨n has also taught English as a second language, and speaks English very well. If you want to ask Sebasti¨¨n about week end lessons, please telephone 15-6049-8821. From: gustavo lozano May 21, 2006 The site for the Centro Universitario de Idiomas, run by UBA is "naturally" in english too. University of Buenos Aires (UBA) offers excellent courses at excellent prices, both intensive and regular classes. Universidad de Palermo: Av. Córdoba 3501, Capital Federal (C1188AAB). This from the BANewComers list: Jan 11, 2005 Note from Pete: The branch mentioned below is the “official” UBA branch, there are other schools around the city that are participants of UBA which might be closer to your home, but they use their own teaching curriculum and materials, I’ve heard the “official” UBA branch has the best classes. Note from BANewcomers: I just started the UBA course today and it seems okay. The course runs for 4 weeks, costs AR$ 570 excluding instructional materials, which I have not purchased yet, but I assume is reasonable as well. This is half the price I paid for in Santiago Chile. By the way UBA doest not accept US$ so change to local currency first. From: BANewComers, Karin Hosenfeld July 8, 2005 I like to recommend my teacher, Patricio. I was joking with him recently that because of the great job he did teaching me, I was able to take my daughter to the ER when she hit her head and was able to communicate with everyone from the receptionist to the pediatrician in Spanish. I told him THAT should be considered a big compliment! :) From: Carla Horton January 31, 2006 As far as I know you can get a rather crowded Spanish class in UBA. But be aware the only official UBA Spanish school is in 215 25 de mayo Street, a couple of blocks north of Casa Rosada. the building belongs to Facultad de Flosofía y Letras.you can check their website www.filo.ubar.ar go to "Laboratorio de Idiomas". They have Summer and regular courses. From: Nélida April 15, 2006 There is a Free Conversational Spanish meetings in our school every Tuesday from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm at Sarmiento 833, floor 4th "B".
(click here to return to topic heading) From BANewcomers: Frances Perry July 25, 2005 Here is another spa to add to your list. This one is in Palermo: My friends always go here when they come to town. It is nice, including a very relaxing atmosphere. Spa offers gift certificates. From BANewcomers: Diana Glass July 24, 2005 For massages, I will recommend AquaVita Medical Spa, Arenales 1965-1134-Capital Federal, phone number 4812-5989, website www.aquavitamedicalspa.com Massages and steams baths are super! From BANewcomers: Maxine Garrett July 24, 2005 The Hotel Castelar has a spa downstairs. You can pay a day fee and go get saunad and steambathed and they have masseuses, etc. You can probably buy a day fee package for someone else. max (click here to return to topic heading) OSX Sport right next to the big Megatlon in Las Canitas- Its on Migueletes between Gorostiaga and Maure. They are pricey but have good stuff! From: carrie leigh porcel, December 13, 2007 There is a cycle shop on Salguero between Castex and F. Alcorta (about a block from Paseo Alcorta mall) that has lots of gear. The name is Canaglia. (click here to return to topic heading) I recently returned to New York City after four terrific months in BA. I wanted to share a few recommendations... I had never played squash before and had always wanted to. So I joined a club near my apartment called Freire Squash and Gym in Belgrano and began lessons with its Director, Pablo Modernell. I really lucked out here too. Pablo was a fantastic teacher... patient and energetic. The club may not be the most modern, but the courts are in excellent shape, everyone there is very friendly, and the level of instruction is very high. Freire Squash and Gym, Freire 2252 (Belgrano), (011) 4544-9088. (click here to return to topic heading)
From: Frank E. Almeida, September 06, 2006 Here is a link to the Argentine Wal-Mart web site. You will find a store locator there. As for Jumbo: http://www.jumbo.com.ar/jumbomas/locales.jsp From: Laura Zurro, September 05, 2006 Nope it's SUBTE LINE D, Palermo Station. the Jumbo Mall is a long block away going towards Libertador. By the way, the hummus is canned hummus, just look for the Lebanese and Middle Eastern products. (click here to return to topic heading) Lots of programs and info to study in Argentina: http://www.studyabroad.com/simplehtml/white/Argentina.html (click here to return to topic heading)
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