Hi Rita, Just got back. I go to BsAs 3-4 times a year and spend every night in Milongas (Tango halls as you call them, but never heard that term before) I think I know just about every one in the city and a few outside.
There are also a few afternoon Milongas, on certain days just as good as the night ones just little different. So for those who don't want to stay out late there is hope. Not sure where you went that had musicians and singers around midnight but many have a performance around 2-3am which depending on performer should not be missed. Any one needing info can pm or post. It all depends on the day making broad recommendations just doesnt work.

Re La Brigada, Absolutely correct. forget the Recoleta location, it is only a short cab ride to La Brigada, on Estados Unidos,,(345??) and remember it closes by 3:30 and opens again at 8

along with the Lomo, don't forget the provoleta and papas provencal.

and Do Not wear a hat. ( just witnessed a tourist being lectured about that)

Perhaps the only drawback with La Brigada in San Telmo is that the staff are somewhat militant on how you are supposed to eat your steak... it takes a little negotiating to get it done like you want it... :D

On my last visit, jugosa meant raw, and I had to beg for having it cooked just a bit more. They are militant also about the closing at 3:30 saw couple turned away who had been waiting for at least 20 minutes, and really tough on the guy with a hat. But what the heck it is Buenos Aires. One of these days maybe in May i will visit your wine shop, problem is never have the time in daylight and nights are busy.

Yes, some cuts they will cook more than others... alas, beware of the Baby Beef, as its served raw & bloody only.

Thanks for the thread. I lived in Argentina almost 10 yrs ago for a few years, coming down to BA tomorrow for a week. Got some great ideas from here. Were staying at the Hotel Five B.A. and the Design Suites Hotel. Will write them up when I get back or a chance. From all that I have seen online of them, they seem good.

Condé Nast Traveler Magazine (May 2007) listed Cafe Bonaparte as a top restaurant in Buenos Aires, FYI.

--

Sweet Willie-- thanks for the heads up, sounds like I will have to check it out.

Gaucho!

Wow, this thread is awesome. I've just found it, but haven't had a chance to read through the whole thing yet. I have a question:

What is a "good rate" for the Hilton in BA for March 2008? It is showing $240/night right now. Is this going to come down? I might use my HHonors points if it is going to be that high.

I am not opposed to staying in a non-US based hotel. I am going with my sister so I want to make sure it's safe. However, we are fairly flexible. What do you suggest?

Wow...

...I paid approximately US$130.00 per night in May 2005...

If you can get a room with points, I would go for it. 5 star hotel prices have been very strong lately, as occupancy rates are very very high.

On a side note, I dont think its imperative that you choose a US hotel chain, there are many options in the city from other sources and they are perfectly safe. As in any very large city, if you take the usual basic precautions you will be fine.

Again, if you have HHonors points or Starwood points to use, I suggest you go ahead and cash them in for an award.

Hope this helps.

Cheers,
Alex (Gaucho100K)

Gaucho!

Thanks for the advice. I do plan to use my HHonors points to stay at the Hilton BA.

Another question...we are basically planning to be on this trip for 10 days. I figure I will spend 5-6 of those in BA. What side trips would you recommend? I have heard conflicting reports on Santiago, Chile. What about Montev., Uruguay? Or should we just stay in the BA area? Please let me know some options for an extra 4 days of our journey.

Thanks!

Yes, definitely use points. I noticed that Hilton BA charges 21% tax - a $250 room can quickly turn into a $300 one.

Please note that this is not a Hilton policy. In Argentina (as in many Euroland destinations), we have a VAT system. The 21% tax is VAT, which must be charged for all goods & services rendered and consumed in Argentina.

If you have 10 days, then I think its a good idea to plan a few side trips. Not that you wont have enough to do in BA, if you want to do things in-depth then 10 days in not enough. However, if side trips are interesting to you, then I would suggest looking into going to the Iguazu Falls, taking a day trip (or two) to an Estancia in the Province of Buenos Aires, and perhaps visiting the Tigre Delta.

As for foreign destinations, two other popular day trips are to Colonia and Montevideo (both in Uruguay). As for Santiago, its more of a day trip I would say, since its also a somewhat longer flight. Im not a Santiago expert... but will say that if you are into Wines then there are lots of things to do. Of course, if you are wine lovers I would suggest you visit Mendoza first, and then make/plan a second trip to Chile to visit wine country over there.

Hope this helps.

Cheers,
Alex (Gaucho100K)