Steppes Travel | Argentina -Know before you go

Know Before You Go ARGENTINA

Introduction The anticipation of your holiday should give you enormous pleasure. In order to ensure you are fully prepared for your next trip we have put together this document which contains essential information about the country you are soon to visit.

We know that visa requirements and electrical currents are not the most scintillating of topics but we also know that being forewarned is forearmed and we would hate for you to come back from your holiday, thinking “if only Steppes had told me that!” Travelling should be inspirational but above anything else it should be fun. We hope this information takes care of the more mundane matters of planning a trip so that you can then focus on building up excitement levels pre-travel, safe in the knowledge you’ve got everything covered.

DID YOU KNOW? “Argentina were one of the first countries to have radio broadcasting.

The first broadcast was made on the 27th of August, 1920. Only twenty people had a receiver at the time!”

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS How long are the flights to Argentina?

What is the typical food and drink in Argentina?

Argentina is one of very few countries in Latin America which you can fly direct to with British Airways. The flight to Buenos Aires takes approximately 13.5 hours.

Argentina is 3 hours behind of GMT and occasionally observes daylight-saving time.

Being a meat loving country this is very much the staple of most dishes such as the asado (barbeque). Mate (tea) is the national beverage of choice and for desert, or those with a sweet tooth, dulce de leche is served in many forms such as ice cream, pastries or just spread onto a slice of bread.

What is the International dialling code for Argentina?

Is it safe to drive in Argentina?

+ 00 54.

Yes, roads in Argentina are generally good and the Route 40 running parallel to The Andes covers north to the south. If you are adventurous enough to drive to Tierra del Fuego, please note that you will need to cross in and out of Chile a couple of times which does require special documentation. If driving a car you must have your lights on all the time or you will receive a fine.

What is the time Zone in Argentina?

Can I use my mobile phone in Argentina?

We suggest checking with your network provider before travel. Please consider other guests when using your mobile phone and when in poorer areas. Phones are available at all hotels and restaurants and many of which have free Wi-Fi. Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies and coverage is good. Whilst trekking satellite phones are used.

When should I travel to Argentina?

Argentina’s seasons are reversed from ours and the best time to visit Buenos Aires is spring from October – November/December before the heat arrives. December to February is also the best time to travel to Patagonia but do remember the cliché of four seasons in one day does apply here.

Early winter (Apr - June) sees autumnal colours in the Lake District and the end of the wine harvest in Mendoza with the month of March hosting the wine festival.

What can I expect travelling in Argentina?

Travelling involves moving around quite frequently and travelling long distances due to the size of the country. You can expect some absolutely incredible scenery, great art, wildlife, culture, friendly hospitable people and not to mention fantastic food and wine.

Are there any festivals I can see during my trip, or spend time with ‘real’ locals?

Argentina hosts many festivals from folklore, carnival, tango, gaucho to Mendoza’s national wine festival – to visit you will need to book up early. We can also arrange time spent with Gauchos both riding and to their homes, Polo, cooking classes and blend your own wine classes.

Are there too many tourists, will I feel like a sheep?

The great thing about Argentina is the size and there is plenty of space to get away from the crowds. Of course, in Calafate at the Perito Moreno Glacier and at Iguazu Falls there will be crowds and we do our best, where possible, to avoid the busy times.

How much luggage can I take?

International airlines mostly work on an allowance of 23kg for checked bags and 1 piece of hand luggage. Internal airlines such as Aerolineas Argentinas have a restriction of 15kg and you may be charged for excess baggage as follows: 16 - 20 kg - ARS 60 (US$14.50)

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21 - 30 kg - ARS 140 (US$34)

| 31 - 40 kg - ARS 300 (US$72.50)

What clothing should I take to Argentina?

It is always best to pack light and while casual dress has become more acceptable in recent years, Latin Americans tend to devote great care to their clothes and appearance. A laundry service is available at most if not all hotels. Depending upon where you are travelling to in Argentina will dictate what is best to wear. We find that a good fleece, waterproof jacket, layers, good walking trainers/boots and zip-off trousers work well for the chilly south with its sub-arctic conditions and for the tropical north.

What about the altitude in Argentina?

Most of Argentina is at sea level but with hosting the highest peak in the Andes mountain range, Aconcagua at 6,962m, there are elevated parts of the country. Salta is located some 1,150 metres above sea level and altitudes can reach over 4,000 meters in the north west of the country and on the famous ‘train to the clouds’. Some people experience symptoms, whilst others have none at all and we advise visiting or contacting your GP before travel if you have any concerns.

Will I get to see Iguazu falls in its full glory?

Iguazu rarely disappoints, there are times of the year when the waters are low and those when it is very high and the walkways split due to the volume of water and access may be restricted. April to June sees the dry season and offers you the best chance of those iconic blue skies with rainbows on hand when clicking your camera, depending upon water levels.

What about the Perito Moreno Glacier, will I get to see ice breaking off?

More than likely you will get to see, if not hear, this incredible spectacle. Every rupture takes upon average every four to five years and 2013 was the last one, however it is continuously breaking off. If you are feeling adventurous then you can head onto the glacier with crampons for mini-trekking, or the ‘big ice’ excursion.

LANGUAGE We feel that it is important to try to learn the native language, even if it is only the words for hello and goodbye, not forgetting thank you.

ENGLISH

SPANISH

Hello (formally to one man/woman) Good afternoon Good evening How are you?

Fine, thanks Goodbye Please Thank you (very much) Yes/No Can I take a photo?

How much is it?

Do you speak English?

I (don’t)understand Excuse me Sorry

Buenos dias Buenos tardes Buenos noches ¿Cómo está?

Bien, gracias Adios Por favor (Muchas) Gracias Si/No ¿Puedo sacar una foto? ¿Cuánto cuesta/cuánto es? ¿Usted habla inglés?

(No) entiendo Permiso Perdon

FOREIGN OFFICE ADVICE In association with the 'Know Before You Go’ campaign Steppes Travel are working with the Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) to do all that we can to help British travellers stay safe overseas.

Please visit the Foreign Office website for any updates: www.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo

VISA REQUIREMENTS

TRAVEL INSURANCE

Visas are not required for British Nationals to Argentina for a stay up to 6 months and you may be required to provide proof of onward travel.

For your safety and peace of mind, comprehensive travel insurance is required when travelling with Steppes Travel. We suggest the specialist travel insurance brokers Campbell Irvine. To arrange cover you can speak to our specialists or call Campbell Irvine on 020 7938 1734.

US Citizens flying into Argentina must pay a reciprocity fee of around US$160 (subject to change) this must be paid for before arrival www.migraciones.gov.ar and the printed receipt presented at immigration control.

Other nationals please check with the respective embassies or representatives.

Please note that it remains your responsibility to organise visas when required (unless otherwise specified by your consultant) although we are more than happy to advice, help and provide the relevant supporting documentation where necessary.

If you already have travel insurance then we require confirmation that your policy provides adequate cover for the duration of your trip, covers the full value of your invoice, is sufficient for the destination(s) you are visiting and includes medical, evacuation and repatriation cover. Please send your travel consultant the insurers name, policy number and emergency contact number.

VACCINATIONS

HEALTH & SAFETY

There is a risk of yellow fever transmission in areas such as Iguazu and whilst it is not currently an entry requirement, you may be advised to have this injection.

Prophylactics can be suggested for those also visiting Iguazu and the lowlands of Chacos and Missiones provinces bordering Brazil and Paraguay. We advise you to either check online at the Fit for Travel website www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or with your local GP/ travel clinic regarding ‘boosters’ for standard immunisations.

Pre-existing conditions If you have specific medical requirements, please consult your doctor prior to departure to obtain adequate supplies of any necessary medication that may be required whilst on holiday. Please carry personal medication with you in your hand luggage (in line with current airline regulations), remembering to keep a copy of your prescription or the usage guidelines with you as well.

Travelling with Steppes Travel is a wonderful chance to experience a stunning array of cultures, landscapes, ecosystems and activities. At the heart of this experience are the differences between our respective ways of life. You should understand that this means that standards of health and safety will not be the same as in the UK and may often be lower. Please refer to our full health and safety information on our website under Travellers Code.

AIRPORT & FLIGHT INFORMATION • • • •

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While travelling, please make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months.

Have appropriate visa for your destination and transit points.

Please note the date, time of your flight and also the time to arrive at the airport. Please be on time.

Please advise if you have a special meal requests (fasting, vegetarian, medical, Muslim, baby food, etc…), while booking your flight or buying your ticket.

Food items are not allowed to be carried in the cabin or inside the hand baggage.

Please affix your name and address label on the baggage. It is also recommended to put the label in side of your checked in baggage to help us identify the bag in case the baggage tag/label attached outside is detached and lost.

Please do not put valuable items such as money, jewellery, cameras and other expensive electronic items in your check-in baggage.

If hand baggage is collected at the check-in counter or at the gate due to its size being above the allowed limit, the airline will not be liable for the damage and loss of valuable items in the baggage.

Do not carry liquids or gels of over 100ml, toy or replica guns, razor blades, household cutlery, knives, scissors, knitting needles etc. in your hand baggage.

For your own and the flight's safety and security, please do not accept any item from anyone as you will be held responsible & accountable for the contents of any of the items found in your custody.

SHELF IMPROVEMENT

ETIQUETTE & CULTURE

We have put together a small list of books that are set around Argentina. Both fiction and non-fiction, they will help you establish an understanding and feel for the country.

Argentina is a pretty cosmopolitan country with a cultural appreciation for the finer things in life including fine wines and having a huge meat loving culture.

Needless to say there are options for vegetarians. Tango is an integral part of the culture and there are certain rules in place when visiting milongas including the quick nod (cabeceo) asking someone to dance. Mate (typical British tea equivalent) and the cowboy culture (Gaucho) also feature highly in this incredibly diverse country and visitors are invited to stay on farms (estancias) throughout Argentina. Here you will have the opportunity to ride over flat countryside (Pampas) or in The Andes sharing a mate with gauchos over a Patagonian barbecue (asado).

Author

Title

Ernest Che Guevara

Motorcycle Diaries: A Journey Around South America Full Circle, A South American Journey In Patagonia Across Patagonia Ghost Train through the Andes Ficciones The Old Patagonian Express Argentina: A Short History The Tango Singer and Santa Evita Rayuela (Hopscotch) Tango!: The Dance, the Song, the Story

Luis Sepulveda Bruce Chatwin Lady Florence Dixie Michael Jacobs Jorge Luis Borges Paul Theroux Colin M. Lewis Tomas Eloy Martinez Julio Cortazar Simon Collier

ELECTRICITY Electric current in Argentina is 220V and most four and five-star hotels provide 110V. Electrical outlets offer the European plug with two circular metal pins and the Australian-style plug with two angled flat pins and one vertical grounding blade.

Argentines are generally sociable, friendly and always interested in meeting foreigners despite what the media say. They are tactile and physically demonstrative with most exchanging kisses (usually a single cheek-to-cheek kiss) on first meeting both men and women. By law everyone must carry a photo ID and checks are more common on the road where your driving licence or passport copy should be sufficient.

Outdoor adventure wear is perfectly acceptable in Argentina but for churches you should show discretion as Argentines take pride in their appearance and highly regard fashion. Just exercise caution when taking photos at airports, military, police and defence establishments and abide by any rules in churches and museums.

Please be aware that you are travelling in a country where services and transport structures are very different from our own western viewpoints.

CLIMATE

FOOD & DRINK

It is very important that you drink plenty of water especially when at altitude.

Dehydration is also quite common and bottled water is available throughout Argentina. It is generally recommended that guests drink at least 2 to 3 litres of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration. This excludes tea, coffee and alcoholic beverages, which act as diuretics and can actually contribute to dehydration and this also applies when at altitude.

We want your holiday to be unspoilt by food and drink related health problems, please…

Being the second largest country in South America, Argentina offers a diverse climate. The north is subtropical with rain throughout the year and best visited between May – September. The south has a sub-arctic climate and best visited in the summer (November – March). Buenos Aires and the central area is temperate, but can be hot and humid during summer and cool in winter.

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Avoid buffets in warm climates, and stick to dishes that have been freshly cooked and served, and not left hanging around in the warm.

Do not buy food from roadside stalls unless you have seen it cooked in front of you.

Stick to bottled water and make sure the seal is unbroken.

Make sure that all fruit and vegetables eaten raw, are washed in boiled or bottled water before eating.

MONEY The official currency in Argentina is the Argentine Peso (AR$) which is divided up into 100 centavos. US Dollars are also widely accepted in most commercial establishments, restaurants and for tipping and it is generally recommended to have crisp dollars. ATM’s are commonplace in the main cities within Argentina.

To find the present, up to date currency rate of conversion for where you are travelling to, log on to: www.xe.com/ucc or use the XE app.

Credit cards International Visa (best to use), MasterCard and American Express are usually accepted throughout Argentina. Before you leave home advise your credit card company that you will be heading abroad.

Tipping Tipping is not compulsory, but is generally expected. If you want to tip because you have received good service, below is a brief guideline to assist you.

Restaurants & Bars Hotels

Tour guides Taxi drivers

10% tip is customary wherever a service charge is not included in the bill. For exceptional service an additional 5% can be added.

US$1 per day for cleaning staff and $0.50-$1 per bag for porters, 10% for room service if the service charge has not been added.

US$8-15 per person for a day of guiding, depending upon length of tour, type of guiding etc.

Tips are not generally expected unless they carry your bags, wherein $1 per person should be sufficient.

Giving money Whilst the giving of money is a matter of personal preference or conscience, Steppes Travel feels that it is best to give a donation to a proper charitable entity, as opposed to freely giving cash to individuals.

RESPONSIBLE TOURISM Just because we believe travel should be of benefit to both traveller and the host country, that doesn’t mean having fun is frowned upon. On the contrary, it is positively encouraged and because you’ll feel like you’re giving something back to the local people, wildlife and environment, you’ll have even more to smile about.

Our policy is that we endeavour: • •

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To work with privately owned companies and hotels rather than state owned or foreign companies in the countries that you visit.

To support a number of charities which promote a wide range of education programmes together with environmental and community projects in the countries we visit. When possible, we encourage you to visit these initiatives.

To encourage travellers to visit unspoilt areas of the world where low impact tourism can have a hugely beneficial effect.

To take you beyond the ordinary, to local markets or community craft schemes rather than large corporation tourist shops so that your money benefits those who need it most.

Our ‘responsible policy’ is not just limited to the destinations in which we operate. Responsible practice is exercised in our office with various measures put in place aimed at reducing, re-using and recycling resources where possible.

In return we ask you: • • • •

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To be sympathetic to local customs, traditions and idiosyncrasies, which to us might seem strange To be aware of local resources, particularly water and its purity, and treat them with care To be generous in relation to local monetary values, but do not over tip To give money where it is needed and not to hordes of children.

Handing out gifts creates an air of expectancy and exacerbates the problem. Far better to give items such as pens to teachers To not buy goods that will have a detrimental effect on either wildlife or the environment however beautiful or plentiful they may seem. It only encourages others You are encouraged to report back on your experience and on the behaviour and awareness of our agents and local guides on your return.

Only in this way can we improve and ensure our demands are being met.

We are committed to developing our Policy of Responsible Practice even further in the future. Our aim is to continually incorporate new responsible practices into our business at all levels and encourage our suppliers to do the same.

USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS

British High Commission British Embassy in Argentina Dr Luis Agote 2412 (1425) Buenos Aires Argentina

0054 (1) 148082200

Askinformation.baires@fco.gov.uk

Health and Vaccinations Malaria Hotspots Foreign & Commonwealth Office advice Fit for travel

0845 8502829

www.malariahotspots.co.uk www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk

The Visa Service

0870 8900185

www.cibtvisas.co.uk

Identity and Passport Service

0870 210410

www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-passport-office

Heathrow Airport

0870 0002468

www.heathrowairport.com

Gatwick Airport

0870 0002468

www.gatwickairport.com

Passport and Visa requirements

Airports

Flights Airline information

www.airlinequality.com

Currency Currency converter

www.xe.com/ucc/

WHAT TO PACK You will have your own ideas from past experiences regarding your personal list of ‘utterly indispensables’ and favourite items, so the following are our suggestions to supplement your own packing list.

Important Stuff • • • • • •

Passport and photocopy (keep photocopies separate) Itinerary & Airline reference number Copy of insurance policy Credit cards/cash Emergency contact numbers International vaccination card where relevant (i.e Yellow Fever Certificate)

*Please keep your photocopies separate from your originals.

Clothing • • • • • • • • •

Base-layer: T-shirts and vests Outer-layer: wind/waterproof jacket Comfortable walking boots or trainers Long trousers suitable for walking. Pockets helpful 2/3 Long-sleeved shirts Wide-brimmed sun hat Socks / underwear Mid –layer: Fleece or jumper Walking sandals

Essentials • • • • • • • • • •

Soft bag between 45-70 litres 20-litre daypack, for keeping everyday items handy Field Guides/pocket language guide Good quality sunglasses, preferably polarised Camera, memory cards, cleaning materials, spare batteries Diary, note pad, pens, reading material Torch with spare batteries and bulb Waterbottle – 1 ltr Camera Bag Wash-kit

Medical equipment • • • • • • •

Personal medical travel kit Personal prescription medicines Insect repellent Lip salve Spare prescription glasses Contact lens & cleaners Sunscreen

Please remember that the early mornings and evenings can be cool in the Andes, so please ensure you pack enough warm clothes. The weather in Patagonia can be very varied with 4 seasons in the same day.

USEFUL TRAVEL APPS

XE Currency Know how much you’re spending with live updates.

Google translate Translates between 64 languages, with audio too.

Evernote Food Document recipes you love as you travel.

Map My Walk Calculate your duration, distance, pace and speed.

Weather Pro

Pin Drop

Weather reports for up to two million locations.

Pin on a map to record locations you’ve discovered.

Flight Track

Travel Smart

Follow detailed paths of thousands of flights.

Access to emergency services & health advice.

Prizmo

Trip Journal

A pocket scanner for all your important documents.

Tipulator Nifty tip calculator, also helps to split bills easily.

Flashlight Simple gadget, always handy for travelling.

Virtual scrapbook, geotagging pictures & videos.

WhatsApp Messenger Free to send pictures, videos & sound clips over wifi

Viber International calls and messaging for free.

Packing Pro

Triposo

Packing suggestions based on your destination.

Pocket Wikitravel, internet connection not required.

THE STEPPES TRAVEL GROUP 51 CASTLE STREET CIRENCESTER GLOUCESTERSHIRE GL7 1QD

T +44 (0)1285 880 980 F +44 (0)1285 885 888 ENQUIRY@STEPPESTRAVEL.COM WWW.STEPPESTRAVEL.COM