I arrived at my hostel in Buenos Aires around 8 AM, knowing that check-in wasn’t until 2 PM. Exhausted from the journey, I spent the first few hours unwinding—taking a shower and then relaxing on the common room sofa.
Discovering Puerto Madero: A Must-Visit in Buenos Aires
Later in the day, I decided to stretch my legs and explore the local area. My first stop was Puerto Madero, one of the top tourist destinations in Buenos Aires. It’s a bustling marina lined with boats, cafés, restaurants, and bars—including familiar spots like McDonald’s and Starbucks. The nearby university added to the lively atmosphere. I stumbled upon a cozy local coffee shop, where I enjoyed a coffee and a wrap.
Language and Currency in Argentina
As I explored, it quickly became clear that Spanish and Portuguese are the primary languages spoken in Argentina, with very few locals fluent in English. I also got my first introduction to the Argentine peso, which is around 1,600 to the British pound. It’s a bit of a mental adjustment when you realize that a simple coffee can cost 4,000 pesos, and small items are priced at 2,000 to 3,000 pesos—it makes you feel strangely wealthy!
People-Watching in Puerto Madero
I spent a few hours soaking up the atmosphere around the marina, watching tango dancers perform and tour guides offering various excursions. It’s a perfect spot for people-watching, especially with the lively mix of tourists and locals.
My Hostel on Chile Street, Buenos Aires
The hostel I’m staying in is located on Chile Street, which, like many streets in Buenos Aires, is named after a country. It’s conveniently situated between two major avenues with 6 to 8 lanes of traffic each. The hostel has a communal kitchen, which is great for cooking meals, though I still plan to sample local restaurants.
Directly across the street is a small supermarket, making it easy to pick up essentials. By 7:30 PM, the long day had caught up with me, and I ended the evening with an early night.
