Thanks, I was thinking something similar. If anyone does know of any travel operators, I'd greatly appreciate it.

We went through Aymara for a High Mountain tour (just driving around, no hiking or climbing) and a winery tour. Both went quite well with friendly guides, etc. They were mentioned in a NY Times article on Mendoza, but they just happened to be the tour agency that our travel agent used. I'll PM you contact info.

SW Update
 

The lastest news about SW is not very encouraging. SW is currently operating only two aircraft, covering the domestic routes from Buenos Aires to the following destinations:

Bariloche
Cordoba
Mendoza
Trelew
Iguazu
Salta

They have long ceased their international operations, but until now were honoring their issued tickets though endorsements to other airlines, such as Iberia and Air Madrid. These endorsements have not ceased, and SW has a group of passengers that are stuck in Madrid with no options but to buy other tickets.

There are again strong rumours of a buyer for SW, but, until this materializes and operations somewhat normalize, I caution visitors about booking and/or purchasing SW tickets.

Any low cost carriers or special deals one way BA to Santiago Chile ?? for travel in July ??

Gaucho, what would a driver and car cost roughly ? in Mendoza or BA ?

Thanx

Around $25-35 should be in order, but could be more depending on the vehicle.

The Air Canada, Lufthansa and Air France flights have been quite reasonably priced when purchased locally. Equivalent of $75-$100 one-way when I last did it about two years ago that way.

what do you think?
 

we are going to bs as from later this week for a week. fwiw, we live in nyc, greenwich village. a drawback is we speak mas pequito espanol--ugh, it's a gringo problem!

we are staying in recoleta at the ayers de recoleta hotel. it's right next to the cemetary. we will also stay in montevideo one night, not sure where yet.

any recs for cafes, breakfast, stores, bars etc. around and near the hotel?

ps--we're on varig so we are stopping in rio for a few days too on the way back. we're staying in ipanema at the everest park there.

i'm all ears for any and all suggestions. gracias and thanks!

BA food markets
 

Hi,
I'm visiting BA for the first time in early August. I've read through most of this thread and am brimming with information. Haven't seen anything on food markets though. One of my favorite sightseeing things to do in a foreign city is browse the local food markets - mercato centrale, fish markets etc. Is there such an option in BA. Best time and day to visit? Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

There's a great indoor food market in San Telmo just north of the plaza where they have the flea market. I can't recall the street, but probably just about 2 blocks north. Took some great pictures in there, colorful fruit and vegetables stacked feet high. meat hanging, crafts. Perhaps someone local knows the name and location?

best way to travel between BA and santiago in august
 

We're planning to fly into BA in August and hope to head out to Mendoza and then fly out of Santiago. What is the best way (reasonable $, comfort, scenic, memorable) to get to Mendoza. Once we are in Mendoza is it feasible to take the bus to Santiago in August when snow and driving conditions can be difficult? Any other recommendations for travel in between these two cities? Thanks.

I would not recommend driving across the mountain passes in August. Take the bus, or fly, but forget driving. Its just not worth it. If you want to enjoy the view, then go by bus.

From EZE to Mendoza, the bus is the least expensive and also allows you to enjoy the views, although Im not sure I would categorize them as memorable.

Your location is excellent. You have many bars and restaurants in a range of 3-4 blocks. Dont miss La Biela....

Have a great trip, PM me if you have any further questions.

Cheers
Gaucho

You need to see the Mercado de Belgrano. Cross-streets are Juramento and Ciudad de la Paz.

The Mercado Central is in Liniers, but its not a place I suggest you go... nothing to see and you need to know where you are going and what you are doing if you want to walk around Liniers.

apartmentsba.com
 

Have been reading this thread off and on for several months, but don't recall if anyone has commented on apartmentsba.com for rentals in BA. The site looks quite professional and they have a decent inventory. Prices seem excellent.

Does anyone have experience with these folks and, if so, how were they? My wife, daughter, and I are thinking an apartment might be better than a hotel in October for a week.

Any comments? Thanks in advance.