GraceHill
Member
A party of six of us arrived in Palermo on a delightful Monday morning, fortunate enough to check in early to our VRBO accommodation. We were enamored by the charming neighborhood, surrounded by numerous cafes and shops. Our gastronomic adventures led us to unforgettable meals at Franca (fuego y vino) and Sottovoce, where reservations proved wise, though smaller groups might secure a walk-in spot.
Exploring Palermo SOHO, we embarked on a delightful evening walking dinner tour booked through Viator and engaged in an empanada and alfajores class. Additionally, a comprehensive 4-hour driving tour of the city provided us with a solid understanding of Buenos Aires' history and layout. While some in our group enjoyed the Tigre Delta tour, I found it less captivating, preferring the remarkable MALBA and regretting not having more time for additional museums and a graffiti tour.
Navigating the city's logistics was a breeze. Uber and hailing cabs using my U.S. account and credit card were both simple and surprisingly affordable. Tipping generously, close to the ride charge, became a routine. Currency exchange at the recommended Cambio near our VRBO proved fair, and we never felt any sense of insecurity. Although I refrained from carrying my large camera, many others confidently wielded theirs. Indulging in the fantastic helado (gelato) was a highlight, and our experiences with randomly chosen eateries ranged from hit to miss, never falling into the realm of awful. The cost of food and alcohol, like transportation, seemed remarkably reasonable.
The only peculiarity we encountered was the absence of coffee beans at the grocery store, prompting a Starbucks visit for our caffeine fix. A local guide mentioned a shortage, but we had no trouble finding coffee when dining out.
Next stop: Iguazu.
Exploring Palermo SOHO, we embarked on a delightful evening walking dinner tour booked through Viator and engaged in an empanada and alfajores class. Additionally, a comprehensive 4-hour driving tour of the city provided us with a solid understanding of Buenos Aires' history and layout. While some in our group enjoyed the Tigre Delta tour, I found it less captivating, preferring the remarkable MALBA and regretting not having more time for additional museums and a graffiti tour.
Navigating the city's logistics was a breeze. Uber and hailing cabs using my U.S. account and credit card were both simple and surprisingly affordable. Tipping generously, close to the ride charge, became a routine. Currency exchange at the recommended Cambio near our VRBO proved fair, and we never felt any sense of insecurity. Although I refrained from carrying my large camera, many others confidently wielded theirs. Indulging in the fantastic helado (gelato) was a highlight, and our experiences with randomly chosen eateries ranged from hit to miss, never falling into the realm of awful. The cost of food and alcohol, like transportation, seemed remarkably reasonable.
The only peculiarity we encountered was the absence of coffee beans at the grocery store, prompting a Starbucks visit for our caffeine fix. A local guide mentioned a shortage, but we had no trouble finding coffee when dining out.
Next stop: Iguazu.
