vicki

My friend will be in Argentina on his birthday and I want to send a gift but I have been told that all packages are opened by customs and that he may have to pay import duty to actually get the package. Has anyone else experienced this and up to what amount can a gift be before he will have to pay to get it. Also as an alternative I have thought of just sending him money to buy a football jersey (which I think he would really like) so what would something like that cost. Thanks alot for any help, I really enjoy reading all of the great tips on this site.

maria

Send the money. Everything related to sports is very affordable here, much less than USA or Europe. There are ATM's everywhere.

maria

My husband just checked at a local store. 30 dollars should be more than enough for a Nike.

Angie

Haven't you checked on the Internet? Maybe you could buy something from an Argentine company on Internet and they would deliver it here without problem

vicki

Angie- That is a really good idea and it hadn't even occured to me. His birthday isn't until October so I have time to look. <BR>Everyone Else- I really still am interested in the mailing restrictions though because he will be there over the Christmas holiday too and I would like to send him a little something from home but don't want him to get stuck paying for it. Thanks for the help.

Vicki

Angie-I have been looking without success for a couple of days now. Can you or someone else out there recommend a site or even the name of a business in Buenos Aires that I could try.

Angie

Vicki, there is a reliable mall at www.altocity.com. The best I can think of is you could check at www.google.com.ar using search words such as "regalos" (presents) or whatever specific gift you have thought of. If you already have an idea I might help with the language. Let me know

Vicki

Angie-Thanks so much, what a great website. I should be able to find something he would like on it. I don't speak Spanish but a couple of people who I work with do and they will probably help me out. I need to learn though because I really want to visit Argentina some day and I think it's polite to at least try to speak the language of whatever country you visit. Even if the locals laugh at your accent.

Joann

Vicki: I have a very good friend in BA. During a visit in Houston a couple of months ago, he noted a t-shirt that he liked but it was not available in his size. The day after he left, I found it in his size. It cost me $10. I was overly eager to send it to him and paid UPS $30 for sending it (not overnight but 3-4 days guaranteed). He had to pay $20 US to claim it! A very expensive T-shirt!

Vicki

Angie, Maria and Joann- Thanks for your responses. I thought maybe you would all be interested in an update. I ended up finding a great "Racing" soccer jersey on altocity.com and had it sent to him. They even wrapped it for me so I was really pleased. They are a great company, very helpful. Trying to set up my account and complete the order was a little challenging because I don't speak Spanish but it was also kind of fun. I have enjoyed so much reading about Argentina and learning about the history and culture. I really do hope that someday I will get a chance to visit. Thanks again to all and have a great day!

ylbarca

I live in the US and I often send things(gifts/money) to argentina! Everything from an old laptop to money, clothing and perfume!! I send it airmail(arrives in about 10 days), insured and registered (price veries by wieght (card $7.50, 12 lb package $50). My friends have only paid tax on them if they were not home at the time of delivery! other then that they have had the package arrive unopened and to their doorstep!