1

Feria de San Pedro Telmo

Cobbled San Telmo may be known as the oldest barrio on the block. But cafes, tango parlors and antique shops have given it a new lease on life.

Stay for the Sunday Flea Market in Plaza Dorrego where you’ll find everything from army helmets to tango records. Weary from walking? Stop for a cerveza and an Argentine Picada, an assortment of meats, cheeses and olives, at one of the outdoor tables along Calle Chile.

2. Faena Hotel & Universe

Built into El Porteno, an old grain silo on the fashionable Puerto Madero Este waterfront, the Faena Hotel is where the Red Queen would live circa 2010. There’s a unique Edwardian-meets-Colonial Mexico style with red velvet couches and black marble throughout the ‘universe’. And quite a universe it is: the hotel has two restaurants, a spa and a popular swimming pool and bar. With hotelier @PhilippeStarck and Argentinean designer Alan Faena at the helm, what else could you expect?

3. El Caminito de La Boca

Meatpackers meet Italian immigrants and warehouses meet erected tin houses along the banks of the narrow canal, Riachuelo. La Boca barrio may just be my favorite of all barrios (and for those who don’t already know, I heart a good barrio).  There’s a lively European flavor, so explore the open-air taverns and street-side performances.
When the grub gets to you, Tango it off. 

4. Sucre Restaurant

Skip the staid ol’ steakhouse (its just beef on a plate) and opt for the majorly-trendy restaurant, Sucre. Local owner and über-chef Fernando Trocca presents dramatic dishes like Langostinos (king prawns) perfumed with Lapsang Souchong and buffalo carpaccio from an open-kitchen, flames flying from the grill. Stilettos are suggested to match the sleek industrial design.

5. Club Atlético Boca Juniors

I know, going to a football game is not that creative. But there’s a reason why every guidebook suggests heading to La Bombonera for a CABJ match. The reason being that it is amazing. Fanatic fans screaming things you can barely understand, beer flying everywhere. It’s a dream come true. But a few words of advice: don’t be afraid of the stadium. Fans - they’re just like us! You’ll be safe if you’re smart, so opt for seats near the ground, in the action. You’ll have a perfect view of the players, oh, woops I meant the game. (Check out my sweet outfit).

Gauchos and gauchitas, adios….