Buenos Aires: Smart Splurges

Bahrein Ready to ditch the tango for the disco? Party like a VIP in this posh, revamped bank vault. Champagne flows and drum-and-bass amongst a crowd of the hip and the beautiful in this exclusive party-till-dawn hotspot. Ladies are always free, but gentlemen must be ready to dish out for the $20 cover.  San Telmo; Lavalle 345, El Centro; 011-54-11-4315-2403; www.bahreinba.com
trendy | nightlife | dj | club

Casa Cruz Reservations are a must at this trendy hotspot exalted as much for its sumptuous surroundings as its modern Argentine cuisine. Palermo; Uriarte 1658; 011-54-11-4833-1112; www.casa-cruz.com
restaurant | expensive | argentine

Catch a polo match The well-manicured lawns of Campo Argentino de Polo are a great place to mingle with Argentinean gentry on weekends during the November and December tournament season. Be sure to dress for the occasion in poplin pants from Argentine designer La Martina (anything from Ralph Lauren will also work). Tickets are available at www.ticketek.com.ar (Spanish only). Palermo Chico/Palermo Viejo; Av. del Libertador 4000 at Dorrego; 011-54-11-5237-7220; www.aapolo.com
spectator sport | things to do

Faena Hotel and Universe This cool, five-star Philippe Starck-designed creation exudes lavish luxury, starting with its cathedralesque entry hall. Puerto Madero; Martha Salotti 445; 011-54-11-4010-9000; www.faenahotelanduniverse.com
luxury | hotel | expensive

Galerías Pacifico Every February, big-name designers present their autumn and winter collections in Buenos Aires for the upcoming South American winter, long before the garments hit the racks in New York or Paris. This is an excellent place to seek out chic, up-to-the-minute designer threads and coveted Argentinean leather handbags from Prune and Cardon. You’ll be months ahead of the curve! Recoleta; Florida and Av. Cordoba; 011-55-11-5555-5110; www.galeriaspacifico.com.ar
trendy | expensive | shopping | designer

Teatro Colón Between the gorgeous acoustics, opulent splendor, and historic setting, committing a few hours to this opera house guarantees an enriching evening. Microcentro/Tribunales; Cerrito 618; 011-54-11-4378-7100; www.teatrocolon.org.ar
culture | things to do | performings arts