Planning a trip to Argentina? STOP and read this first before proceeding any further!! While traveling through Argentina for 2 weeks I learned a few things that I wish I had known before going. So here are they are for you to read about before you go!
1. You Have to Pay a Reciprocity Fee Online BEFORE You Enter Argentina
As of January 7, 2013 you have to pay your reciprocity fee online before you land in Argentina. Yes, BEFORE. This means you cannot even check-in and board your flight headed to Argentina until you've shown proof of payment (a printed receipt). I found out the hard way when I arrived at the airport and was informed I could not check in until I showed proof of payment. This incident not only taught me that I had to pay this fee ahead of time, but also that the payment site is buggy and goes down at 6am. I also learned that even once I've paid the fee, there's NOTHING open at the airport for me to print my receipt at such an early hour! I did manage to get the situation sorted, but that's a story for another time. Bottom line--pay your fees! You can do that here. This applies to anybody with an U.S., Australian, or Canadian passport. At the time of writing fees are as follows:
- U.S. citizens: US $160 for multiple entry valid for 10 years
- Australian citizens: US $100 for multiple entry valid for 1 year beginning on date of payment
- Canadian citizens:
- US $75 for one-entry (with exit and re-entry from bordering countries: Bolivia, Uruguay, Brazil, Paraguay, and Chile at no additional cost within three months
- US $150 for multiple entry valid for 5 years
2. Beware of Pick Pockets
- Carry your backpack in front and never store anything valuable in outside, easily accessible pockets.
- Keep your wallet and cell phone in front pockets--don't carry it in your hand at all.
- Always keep the camera strap on your wrist when taking a picture. It's common for a robber to run by and take the camera right out of your hand as you're taking a picture.
- Though not a pick pocket scenario, do pay attention when paying your taxi driver. You'll pay with a 10 and he'll claim you gave him a 5, then start arguing with you. It's good practice to verbally count the money out in front of him before handing it over.
3. Save Those Coins! They're Rare!
Planning to take public buses? You'll need coins and it's difficult to get change anywhere. So when you come across coins, save them for when you really need it.
4. The Not-So-Underground Black Market Exchange Is Legit
5. Long Distance Bus Travel is LuxuriousIf you plan on traveling long distances, whether in Argentina or to neighboring countries, consider traveling by bus. Not only will you save on a night of lodging, but the buses are super luxurious with fully-reclining seats, personal TV screens, Wi-Fi, full meals, and all the wine you can drink! You also get a discount for purchasing early. I bought my bus tickets through Plataforma10. Use Google Translate if you can't read Spanish.
6. Relax! You're in Argentina!
Everything is slower-paced and things happen later in Argentina. Dinner at 9pm is normal. People tend to run late and go at a slower pace. So while you're in Argentina slow down, relax, and enjoy a glass of Malbec as you wait for the waiter to bring your meal or for the hotel clerk to help you check in. There's no rush! Cheers!
