Last Minute Details
Today is a busy day – all the last minute things before the off for Buenos Aires early tomorrow.
I have said enough about what to expect and who to go and see – so here’s a few practical and light-hearted tips gleaned years of travel and from disasters, potential disasters and disasters.
Flights
• Save time and check-in on line. Don’t forget if you are travelling via the US (even in transit) passport details are needed. Use the Bag Drop – much quicker (some anglo-saxon airline excepted !!)
• Check the luggage allowance – I found that transatlantic flights can be surprisingly generous. My flight allows three pieces of luggage each up to 32 kg. More than enough for the wife’s jewellery !
• If you have time – buy a “suiter” – so much better for the posh frocks and suits. Avoids looking like you travelled in the hold when you arrive at the Opening reception.
Hotels
• Check that you DO have a reservation. You should have a reference number from your agent. My reservation was a potential disaster – no bed for the day I arrive. Thanks to P&G’s splendid administrators – sleeping on the streets was averted.
• Be nice to the concierge and he or she will take good care of you
Taxi from the Airport
• The taxi company number for the Remises (located just beyond Customs) did not have anyone who spoke English (or presumably any other language – American, Australian etc)
• Phone your hotel and/or e-mail them asking them to arrange a taxi. Don’t forget the return. Tip the driver about 10%
• If you don’t manage to do this – outside the airport go to the Taxi Stand and wait for a black and yellow “Radio Taxi” – make sure it has a meter.
Money
• Get local currency when you arrive for best rates. However , apparently ATMs are NOT everywhere but there is bound to be one near your hotel
• Have a few dollars with you and use your credit card to pay for the reserved taxi
• Only about 75% of restaurants take credit cards but most shops do
• US dollars are acceptable as tips
Language
• For first time visitors to Argentina – this is not a country in which English is widely spoken – as I found out to my cost. Learn some key words – and remember that the language is influenced by the large Italian population – don’t say gracias : its Chau (like ciao).
• Buy a local Spanish/English dictionary and learn to smile and point.
Cultural Sensitivity
• Read “A short history of the Argentines” by Felix Luna to understand more and avoid putting your foot in it.