From Tango to Tea: This is How to Have a Classic Buenos Aires Experience

by  David Duran | Oct 2, 2019
Buenos Aires
Buenos Aires / diegograndi/iStock

Founded by early Spanish settlers at the delta of the Rio de la Plata, Buenos Aires, the sprawling capital of Argentina, has long been one of Latin America’s most important trade hubs. Now, the city thrives as a center of culture, politics, and technology. When it comes to gastronomy, the food scene is dominated by prime Argentine beef, in addition to twists on classic European dishes. Buenos Aires is also home to an array of upscale luxury hotels and countless unique neighborhoods to explore. All in all, this welcoming, European-like city will not disappoint. 

Posh Digs in a Vibrant Upscale Shopping Neighborhood

Located in Recoleta and overlooking a large tree-filled plaza is the Palladio Buenos Aires – MGallery by Sofitel. The 113-room property sits on the west side of the Plaza Rodriguez Peña and is within walking distance of many cafés, bars, book shops, and theaters. The modern tower was constructed on the site of the former residence of independence hero Rodriguez Peña. Part of his original home was incorporated into the hotel’s facilities. The ground floor of the hotel has an opulent marble-floored lobby with top-quality furniture and fittings, while the exterior is sleek and contemporary. 

The hotel’s facilities include a small heated outdoor pool, a hot tub, a gym, four massage rooms, and a spa. Other on-site amenities include a sauna, a hammam, and a solarium. Guest rooms are spread over nine categories of room choices with multiple bed and suite options to choose from. 98 of the rooms come with spacious balconies — some overlooking the plaza — and all the balconies have mirrored walls, which gives the feeling of space and privacy. Standard rooms are equipped with a king bed or two twins, along with air-conditioning and espresso machines. They're also outfitted with polished wood floors, electric curtains, leather armchairs, and marble bathrooms. 

The breakfast offerings (which can be included in the rate) include a buffet with fruit, cereals, toast and pre-cooked eggs, although extra dishes can be ordered upon request. The Neresco Bistro at the rear of the lobby is the property's elegant dining space that welcomes hotel guests and locals alike. The adjoining bar serves craft cocktails and locally made vermouths and gins, and features a full wine menu. 

The City’s Most Sensual and Intimate Tango Experience

As you enter the Faena Hotel, located in the Puerto Madero neighborhood of the city, you’ll be greeted by an extremely long hallway with a red carpet and sleek black furniture.As you make your way down the runway, you’ll pass the Library Lounge, which is decorated with masculine tufted leather sofas and accented with romantic crystal candelabras. Continuing on, and you’ll pass Bistro Sur, famous for the unicorn heads adorning the walls. And, at the very end of the hallway, there’s El Cabaret, an intimate space with the city’s most adored tango show, Rojo Tango. The small space features a live orchestra, fantastic dancers who put on a very sensual show, and a traditional Argentine menu with a fine selection of local wines and cocktails.

Drinks with A Spectacular View

Inside the top floors of Alvear Icon Hotel & Residences (one of Puerto Madero’s newest hotels) is Crystal Bar. The bar’s décor can be described as a mixture of tobacco and golden colors in an exclusive and private-feeling environment. The bartenders have created concoctions of craft cocktails with a precise alchemy of flavors, aromas, and colors. Pair your drinks with elevated bar snacks and take in the panoramic views of the neighborhood below as you step outside to the glass-enclosed balconies. 

Master the Art of Argentine Cuisine

Spend an evening with a small group of people around a dinner table at The Argentine Experience, where you will be taught the fundamentals of what being an Argentine is all about, while enjoying delicious wines and the company of new friends. Learn how to fill and properly close empanadas, how to order your steak in Spanish, and enjoy making your dessert and traditional mate tea. The hands-on dining experience is both fun and educational. The best part about it all is that you get to enjoy all the incredible food and drinks that you helped create. 

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