Originally Posted by
honu
We'll have almost 9 hours to kill at EZE when we connect from our late morning QF flight from SYD to the evening LA flight to LIM. What would you do with that much time? Go to the lounges (we'll certainly have access to AA's and IB's, possibly UA's too)? Go to town (we'll be pretty tired)? Are the lounges in the secure area, and, if so, would/could you check your luggage 7+ hrs before your flight (more chances for baggage handlers to steal)?
I really can't figure out what's the best course of action for this much time. I could also book an airport hotel, but is there a decent one within reasonable distance?
The lounges are nothing great and outside of the lounges EZE for an International airport offers basic facilities. Passing several hours might be a bit of a challenge although having lounge entry certainly makes it more comfortable.
Are you an Australian citizen? You probably know you'll have to pay the reciprocity fee to enter if you are. This is okay if you were planning on coming back to visit anyway and entering at EZE or AEP which are the only two entry points you need to pay the fee.
You should be able to check your luggage through to LIM when you check-in at SYD. That's what I would do instead of picking it up and re-checking it at EZE. The whole process of clearing immigration doesn't take that long. There are no airport hotels at EZE and very little surrounding it. An hour (usually less) will get you into the centre of Buenos Aires by taxi but make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get back. Heavy traffic, accidents or even protests can block the road in an instant causing large tailbacks.
If you're itinerary includes visiting BA at some point then it's not worth the expense or hassle just for a few hours.I would just rest yourself at Ezeiza.