Have been to Argentina twice last year and going again in October. These are my suggestions:

1. change US$ into AR pesos in the airport. Immediately after customs on your right is Banco de La Nacion. Has no commission and by far the best exchange rate. You can change back whatever is left prior to departure. There is an US$ 18 departure tax in the airport before you leave.

2. You can pay in credit card in a lot of places where most tourists hang out. I pay the tip in cash. Let your credit card company know you are traveling to Argentina. If you have internet access check your credit card charges often if you are worried about theft.

3. Pay for the big stuff with credit card - hotel, tours, big purchases. Pay for the rest in cash. Keep small bills and take your time. No rush. I have NEVER had anybody try to rip me off in Argentina.

4. I have always taken taxis in the street. I use radio-taxi for the airport because I want a larger car for my suitcases or I want them to come at a certain time. Gypsy cars are not the street taxis. Gypsy is an unlicensed taxi as we have here in the US. Never take any taxi that does not look like a taxi and you cannot see the license and a picture to match the driver. I always make a mental note of the taxi number/name of driver. I have NEVER been ripped off by a taxi in Argentina. They are great, smart, know their way around and can give you a lot of information about tourism, politics, food or anything else you want. You can also hire a taxi for aprox US$ 10-12 per hour and they will take you wherever you want to go. Think about that if you have several places you want to visit in one day and don't want the "stress" of changing cabs.

5. Buenos Aires is fun, well organized, amazing food, great people, the best gelatto west of Milano and a well-deserved title of "Paris of South America". The prices also happen to be very good for us tourists at this time but at any price, Buenos Aires is magnificient.

6. If you like a spa, try the Four Seasons spa. They have a great gym, sauna and steam and a great outdoor pool. All this and impecable service for about US$ 50 per day. Worth the expense if you need a few hours to work out and relax.

Enjoy your trip and please report back when you return. We love to hear stories.