Hello,

I've read comments by other posters on this forum regarding ATM's dispensing dollars. Is there a need for US$ in Buenos Aires? Also, any tips on what to wear mid to end of May?

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Anne

We never found an ATM that dispensed US$, not that we were looking. Please see my 'currency exchange' posting recently. Although we never actually changed cash dollars at a bank window, we did so at a cambio stand in Bariloche, and it was very quick and at the best rate. There is no need for US$, except perhaps to get the best rate for exchange into AR$ (pesos).

Hi Anne,

I just got back from BA and unless you've negotiated a deal with your hotel to pay in US$ (sometimes a discount is offered), I don't see the need for them. You can see my post regarding this under groro's in 'currency exchange'. If you are going to Iguazu as a side trip, US$ are widely accepted.

As far as clothing goes, it was about 65 degrees last week, but cool at night. Portenos are very smart dressers but you won't look out of place in jeans during the day. Something a bit dressier for night is good. Also, I noticed women don't wear open toed shoes there at this time of year-I did and my feet definitely caught some glances!

Hope that helps!

Hi, Anne, I'm here right now and is a bit colder than I expected. Temps are 10-20, bit of wind chill occasionally and when the sun goes behind a cloud can get nippy. Also is a bit wet so carry a brolly. US dollars work well in shops and even restaurants as you get a better exchange rate - official is US1 = peso 2.88 but in shops they give you 3. I second the comment re closed shoes - don't know about looks but is just a bit cold for them. Layers are prob best - I wear a thermal, a close fitting tshirt and a sweater or jacket. I carry my pashmina to wrap around me if it gets very chilly. I have taken off my sweater/jacket a couple times but never regretted being in a thermal.

Thanks so much, everyone. Just what I wanted to know.

Hobbes,
Just thought of another question to ask and thought, since you are there, you might have ideas. Have you taken any tours around the city? I'd like a recommendation for a tour guide, ideally one with knowledge about the architecture in addition to the usual historical and cultural elements. Any advice would be appreciated. I'm also going to put this question in a new post with the appropriate heading. Thanks, Anne.