 |
|
|
|
Let Argentina seduce you!
Home of the tango, Buenos Aires pairs old school glamour with sexy Latina style.
By Catalina Margulis
|
|
|
|
Shopping
Head to Plaza Serrano (also known as Plaza Cortazar) in the Palermo district to explore its jewel box boutiques, where designers like Trosman, Cora Groppo and Maria Cher showcase their designs. Artisanal stands are set up in Recoleta's Plaza Francia all week long, but it's best to see them in all their weekend glory. You'll find everything from handmade silver and leather goods to art and home accessories. On Sundays, visit the antique stores and Plaza Dorrego flea market in San Telmo. "Here you'll find jewellery, clothes and furniture from the '30s on," says Trosman.
Hangout
Argentina is world-famous for its beef, but the city's trendier spots follow the culinary fusion trend. Palermo is packed with chic bars and restaurants like ølsen, which offers Scandinavian-Argentine delicacies on its sun-drenched garden deck. But if it's chorizo and sweetbread that you're after, head to the more residential Las Cañitas neighbourhood, where Campobravo offers authentic Argentine parrillada (mixed grilled meats) and is a top spot for catching the Báez strip's humming nightlife. Keep in mind that most restaurants don't fill up for dinner until 10 p.m., and bars get hopping starting at 2 a.m. (the typical night out involves stopping for breakfast on your way home). Las Cholas, on nearby Arce, may be your only chance to try maté, a local infusion, at a special afternoon sitting.
Tango
Walk around the colourful working-class neighbourhood of La Boca, tracing the history of the tango. "I'm from Boca," says Trosman. "It's very Italian. This is where the first Genoese immigrants arrived." Browse the paintings and souvenirs for sale along El Caminito and catch a live tango performance. For an all-out tango experience, take in dinner and a show at the elegant Esquina Carlos Gardel and swoon to the bandoneón accordion. If you want to join in on the fun, be sure to visit the historic Confitería Ideal, where scenes were filmed for Evita, starring Madonna. Classes and dances are offered above the downstairs café. "Be sure to try the pastelerías [pastries]," advises Trosman. "They're to die for!"
Air Canada flies direct between Toronto and Buenos Aires, as well as via Santiago, Chile, for a combined total of six times a week (www.aircanada.com).
In the limelight:
Trosman www.trosman.com
Alvear Palace Hotel www.alvearpalace.com
Faena Hotel + Universe www.faenahotelanduniverse.com
Esquina Carlos Gardel www.esquinacarlosgardel.com.ar
Confitería Ideal www.confiteriaideal.unlugar.com
Photograhpy of a boutique in the Palermo shopping district courtesy of Catalina Margulis
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
OR |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
