Argentina

Travel tips for Argentina: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Carry some cash. Although foreign credit cards are widely accepted and now offer a favorable exchange rate, carrying cash remains highly recommended because many restaurants offer 10-20% cash discounts and you will still need pesos for taxis, kiosks, and small vendors.

Try the food

Asado: A mouthwatering selection of beef, pork, and sausages slow-cooked over a wood or charcoal grill.
Empanadas: Baked or fried pastry pockets stuffed with savory fillings like spiced ground beef, chicken, or ham and cheese.
Alfajores: Tender, crumbly cookies sandwiched together with a thick layer of sweet dulce de leche and often coated in chocolate or powdered sugar.

Say it in Spanish

Hello: Hola
Thank you: Gracias
Please: Por favor
Excuse me: Perdón
How much is this?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?
The bill, please: La cuenta, por favor
Yes / No: Sí / No
Goodbye: Adiós

Essentials

Plugs: Type C / Type I
Voltage: 220V, 50Hz
Driving: Right side
Tap water: Usually safe
Emergency: 911 (general), 101 (police), 107 (ambulance), 100 (fire)
SIM tip: Pick up a prepaid SIM card from Claro, Movistar, or Personal at a local kiosco or official store, and be sure to have your passport handy for activation.

Etiquette

It is customary to leave a 10 percent tip in cash at restaurants, even if you pay the main bill with a credit card.