jofreed

Staying at Llao Llao with my boyfriend from Dec. 22 - 26th. Wondering if we need a rental car during that time period and if anyone has suggested tour companies/activities they loved. For those who might have been there during that time frame, assume everything is closed XMas day and any of our activities should be limited to the hotel property? Tx.

thursdaysd

There are buses, but a car will certainly give you more flexibility. Don't miss the view from Cerro Campanario. I did the Isla Victoria boat tour, which was OK, but I had already seen the lake on the crossing from Chile, if it's your only opportunity to see the lakes you would probably enjoy it more - but be warned, very little English spoken.

avrooster

I believe a car is essential to enjoy Bariloche.

You are staying at a wonderful place.

I know them pretty well. Tell me if I can help you with anything out there.

Not sure about activities on the lake during Xmas. Why don't you ask the Llao-Llao's concierge?

I assume you know all about the "blue" rate of exchange, with which you can get about 40% (at this writing) off anything which can be paid with a credit card, including your hotel stay.

Have a wonderful time in our South with your BF, jofreed.

thursdaysd

I enjoyed Bariloche very much without a car, av. But I was staying in town, not out at Lao Lao.

avrooster

thursdaysd: I took into account the fact that they were staying out of town. It also depends on what they want to do. Maybe they don't need a car EVERY day.

jofreed: Hertz had a booth at the Llao-Llao when I stayed there last. You can pick up the car at the airport or at the hotel.

avrooster

jofreed: I've been in touch with the Llao-Llao, concerning your questions.

You need to know that Xmas Eve dinner is a big thing in Argentina. It would be best to reserve ASAP.

Furthermore, I was told there ARE activities on the lake on the 24th and 25th, but it would also be best to reserve ASAP, as it is high season.

Have a great time in our wonderful South.

More on that later

avrooster

The computer fooled me:

My "more on that later" refers to the activities on the lake.

avrooster

jofreed:

I'm told activities on the lake are normal on the 23rd, but may end earlier on the 24th.

The only activity on the lake available for the 25th would be navigating to Puerto Blest.

Reservations are suggested.

Otherwise, as you said, your "activities should be limited to the hotel property". The Llao-Llao most likely will offer some activities on Xmas Day.

I suggest you contact the Llao-Llao's concierge.

Have a wonderful time in our South, jofree & BF.

jofreed

Thanks everyone. AV, just starting my research so was not familiar with the blue dollar. We have already paid for our hotel with credit card, but seems like we can exchange for everything else. Just need to figure out how it works!

Great to know about Hertz at Llao Llao as renting when we need it makes the most sense. I would love more suggestions for what to do in the area during our stay. It is my boyfriend's birthday on the 23rd and would love to do something special during the day? I have made a dinner reservation at Cassis for that evening.

For dinner on Christmas eve, any recommendations? Thanks again.

avrooster

Jofreed: so, no chance (or very high cost?) to cancel your Llao-Llao paid reservation and do it directly with the hotel, to be able to obtain the 40% (at this writing) blue dollar discount? It would save you quite a few $$$$.

Cassis sounds like a good choice. You need to understand the 24th and 25th are VERY special days. I'm not even sure the Hertz guy will be there. I would suggest Xmas Eve dinner at the hotel. I understand there will be a fancy dinner and a normal dinner, but it would be best to reserve ASAP, no matter which one you choose. There is also a good Italian restaurant near the hotel: http://tinyurl.com/mzsoww8

For steak: http://tinyurl.com/knnan4t half way back to town.

Repeating myself: DO remember it is very high season and two VERY special days.

Have a great time in our South with your BF, jofreed.

avrooster

http://www.fodors.com/community/sout...get-40-off.cfm

http://www.fodors.com/community/sout.../blue-rate.cfm

http://www.fodors.com/community/sout...lar-heaven.cfm

jofreed

Thanks avrooster! Unfortunately, we booked our trip as a package deal, airline tickets included. Another question, do you think it is worthwhile renting a car on the dec. 24th in the AM and driving to villa la angostura for the day and returning early evening/later afternoon before the holiday gets underway. We have such limited time with XMas to explore the area. Thanks.

avrooster

It's obviously a matter of taste, but that's the kind of thing I would do, if I were you. When you are there, see what other alternatives the concierge can offer, but, as said over and over, the 24th is a funny day.

With the cash thing, you can still save some money on the car rental, extras at the hotel and other expenses.

Have a great time in our wonderful South.

jofreed

avrooster, do you have any idea where where we can get the blue dollar rate in Bariloche? Thanks so much for all your help!

avrooster

The town has a main street and there should be several places there, most likely disguised as travel agencies. The hotel's concierge may or may not know about a place in particular.

Anyway, it's better to change in BA, if possible.

Have a great time in our country.