Archives for August 2018

Best spots to catch your NFL games in Buenos Aires

 

For many Americans, fall is the most anticipated season of the year. And no, not because of the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte, but because football (not to be confused with fútbol) is back in action. While the preseason is already well underway, September 6th marks the official start of the 2018 NFL season with the Kickoff Game hosted by the defending Super Bowl LII champion. Whether you’re an avid NFL or college football fan, you likely have a go-to sports bar to catch the weekly games.

Although it may be the most popular sport in the United States, the rest of the world isn’t quite as enthusiastic as those of us stateside. If you find yourself in Argentina at any point during this year’s season, you’ll probably be in search of some expats, some beer, and some big screen TVs. Having lived in Buenos Aires for the better part of the 2017 season, I’ve compiled a list of the best spots around the city to cheer on your favorite team.

Chicken Bros

Thames 1795, Palermo // thechickenbros.com

Owned by two American expats living in Buenos Aires, Chicken Bros is my favorite restaurant/bar to indulge in some NFL. They have two flat screen TVs as well as a giant projector where they stream the games. You can even call ahead of time and let them know which game you want to watch to ensure they have it playing come kickoff. Aside from the perfect multi-screen setup, the food steals the show. Chicken Bros is essentially the Argentine equivalent of Buffalo Wild Wings (and who doesn’t love BWW). Their menu includes bone-in and boneless wings with your choice of sauce or rub, buffalo chicken nachos, and mac & cheese, just to name a few. Let’s be honest, what screams American football more than buffalo chicken wings with a side of ranch?

El Alamo

el-alamo-sports-pub-palermo-buenos-airesUruguay 1177, Recoleta and Av. Córdoba 5267, Palermo

If you’re looking for an expat crowd equally as enthusiastic about sports as yourself, El Alamo is your place. With locations in both Palermo and Recoleta, El Alamo is debatably the most popular bar to catch any American sports game, most notably football. El Alamo mimics a traditional American pub with sports bar vibes. It has dim lighting and a fully stocked bar with a handful of widescreen TVs. In traditional football-viewing spirit, you can order draft beers by the pitcher alongside an order of wings, burgers or tacos. It’s pretty much guaranteed that you’ll find a fellow fan at El Alamo, and nothing beats the comradery of NFL fanatics, am I right?

Jay’s

jays-all-day-american-breakfast-in-buenos-airesAntonio Beruti 2640, Recoleta // www.jaysamerican.com

Jay’s is an American-style diner smack dab in the middle of Buenos Aires’ Recoleta neighborhood. If you didn’t know any better, you’d think you were in a cozy diner in New York City. While not your typical sports bar, Jay’s is just as good as any to revel in the best of American football. You can enjoy anything from a stack of pancakes (complete with Aunt Jemima syrup!) to wings & fries to a classic BLT sandwich, all while watching a game on their flat screen TVs. They also have a generous selection of bottled beer, including the American favorite, Budweiser. Most known for their all-day breakfast, Jay’s is the perfect indulgence for a lazy NFL Sunday.  Oh, and don’t forget to top it all off with an Oreo milkshake.

READ MORE
Feeling nostalgic or just looking to have something different, we have more American-style food recommendations in Buenos Aire for you.

If NFL isn’t quite your thing, but you’re interested in other sports, such as Argentina’s favorite pastime, fútbol, or basketball or rugby or tennis etc., check out these local spots:

Gibraltar

gibraltar-british-style-pub-in-buenos-airesPerú 895, San Telmo

If you’re an avid rugby or cricket fan, Gibraltar should be at the top of your list. Situated in the heart of San Telmo, this authentic English pub streams British sports as well as fútbol matches. Gibraltar is well known around Buenos Aires for serving traditional English dishes including meat pies, fish & chips, and a wide selection of curries. And the best part? They sell an assortment of craft beers and British ciders. In-between matches you can even keep yourself amused by the pool table in the back. You’re sure to find many British expats at this popular bar.

Rock & Ribs SmokeHouse

rock-ribs-smokehouse-great-bbq-in-buenos-airesAv. Libertador 3883, Palermo // www.rocknribs.com.ar

Rock & Ribs SmokeHouse is amidst a number of restaurant/bars in Los Arcos located next to Palermo’s Rose Garden. It’s an American-inspired BBQ joint that shows all kinds of sports including everything from tennis matches to the local fútbol game. And when it comes to the food, they don’t mess around. They house a smoker that has the production capacity of 1,500kg of meat. You can munch on everything from a pulled pork sandwich to brisket that is smoked for 12 hours, not to mention their homemade BBQ sauce.

Locos x El Fútbol (LxF)

Locos-x-el-Futbol-bar-Buenos-Aires-sports-pubAv. Las Heras 2101, Recoleta // www.locosxelfutbol.com/recoleta.html

The name pretty much sums it up! Locos por el fútbol. LxF is one of the best places in the city to see locals in their element: getting heated over a game of fútbol. There are so many TVs scattered throughout the restaurant that it’s guaranteed you won’t miss a thing. Be sure to get there early as it tends to fill up during big games. I’ve even seen bystanders peering in the windows to catch glimpses of the games from the street.

Now it’s time to bust out your best fan gear and head out to watch your favorite team!

Written by Kelly Malloy, who is currently living in Buenos Aires and learning Spanish at Vamos Spanish Academy.

When traveling around South America, be aware that depending on your citizenship you may be required to pay entrance or tourist fees to enter certain countries. Argentina and Chile have reciprocity fees, Bolivia requires a visa; however, the country with the strictest rules, is probably Brazil. If you are traveling with a US, Australian, or Canadian passport, and you are interested in traveling to Brazil, you will have no choice but to obtain a Brazilian Tourist Visa. Many European Union passport holders won’t need one, to check if you need a visa to enter Brazil, you can see the full list here. If you find yourself in Buenos Aires, with the day dream of heading to the Brazilian beaches, don´t worry because you do have the option of going through the process here.  Even better news for those who hold a US, Australian, Canadian or Japanese passport, you can now apply the visa electronically. Just go to this site, follow the steps, pay the fees and you are ready to go to Brazil! For others, there are a couple more time-consuming steps, but it’s still quite straightforward. If you follow our instructions exactly, you will have no problem getting your Brazil Visa.

Step 1. Before you fill out the online application form, make sure you have all the documents and information prepared and on hand:

  • Passport with a validity of at least six months
  • A recent photo taken with white background and in ICAO Standard
  • Bank statement (checking or savings) or 2 credit card(s)
  • Flight or bus ticket in and out of Brazil. If traveling by car, the owner of the vehicle must write a statement with all the vehicle data and the itinerary
  • Hotel or cruise reservation. If you’re staying with friends or family, you must write in the host’s contact information on the online form
  • If the passenger is a resident of Argentina, you must present original and a copy of the DNI. If you’re a tourist, you must present the entry stamp into Argentina on your passport.

Step 2. Fill out the application form online and upload the required documents. After submitting the completed form, you will have to print out the form receipt. Also take note of the application number.

Step 3. Sign the printed form receipt and glue the printed photo to it. (You still have to provide a printed copy of your photo even though you have already uploaded it.)

Step 4. Pay the fees: You can go to any Itaú Bank (a Brazilian bank) to make the payment. However, the Consulate has a preferred one, which is the branch at Santa Fe 831. They only accept cash in Argentine Pesos. No credit card or US dollars. The fees differ for different nationals, check here for their latest fees. Go to the bank, and take a number and wait to be called. When you get the receipt for the payment do NOT throw the receipt away as it’s your proof of payment! IMPORTANT: After you’ve made the payment, you need to submit everything with the Consulate within 3 business days to start the process.

Step 5. Go to Brazilian Consulate General (not to be confused with Brazilian Embassy) Monday to Friday between 2pm and 4pm to present all the documents. Appointment is NO LONGER necessary to do this step. The Consulate is located at Carlos Pellegrini 1363 on the fifth floor. Easily accessible from Subte stations including: Linea D “Diagonal Norte”, Linea B “Carlos Pellegrini” or Linea C “General San Martín”. Make sure you bring your signed form receipt with the photo, the original and a copy of the required documents, and the original proof of payment.

Step 6. When it’s your turn, your paperwork will be looked over and you may be asked a few questions about your trip and the paperwork. If you’re prepared, this should be super easy and straightforward. IMPORTANT: You’ll need to leave your passport at the Consulate for the time they need while they prepare your visa, so don’t plan to leave the country during this time.

Step 7. If everything is in order, your visa will be ready for pick up in 5 business days.

¡Suerte y Buen Viaje!

AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE THAT IS WORTH CHECKING OUT IN BUENOS AIRES

 

When I tell people what I miss most about home, my number one answer is Mexican food (what can I say I’m a true Texan). I pretty much live for Mexican food – tacos, margaritas, queso, you name it. Having now lived in Buenos Aires for the better part of the year, I’ve come to realize that Mexican restaurants are few and far between. That being said, I’ve been on a hunt to try nearly every Mexican restaurant in Capital Federal. While they aren’t exactly what you’d find back in the Lone Star State, there are a few that are worth the visit. Here are my recommendations for the best Mexican food in Buenos Aires for when your taco cravings start to kick in.

For the most authentic…

masa-mexican-pop-up-restaurant-buenos-aires

While technically not a brick and mortar restaurant, MASA is the best Mexican food I’ve had in Buenos Aires to date. Run by Kevin Vaughn, a Californian foodie living in Buenos Aires, MASA is a pop-up-style restaurant that travels weekly to different spots around the city offering a menu of fresh, local ingredients influenced by Mexican cuisine. Some of their stand out items I’ve tried include chilaquiles, carnitas enchiladas, and budín de churro. To get their weekly pop-up schedule check out their website at www.masamakestacos.com or their Instagram @masamakestacos. You don’t want to miss them!

For the tastiest margaritas…

Located in the heart of the popular Palermo Soho, Xalapa makes my favorite frozen margarita in Buenos Aires, hands down. However, I’m speaking from experience when I say that more than two will leave you needing some Advil the next morning. Trust me, they are that strong! Aside from their delicious margaritas, some of their menu favorites include a heavenly queso fundido and a classic take on quesadillas. They also offer ample outdoor seating for warm, sunny days. Address: El Salvador 4800. +54 11 4833-6102

For the spiciest cuisine…

che-taco-mexican-food-buenos-aires

It’s no secret that Argentine food is anything but spicy. So if you’re looking to indulge in some Mexican food that packs a punch, Che Taco in San Telmo is your spot. With over seven different flavors of salsas picantes, you can satisfy your hankering for all things spicy. Not only does the menu cover all the essentials – burritos, tacos, nachos, etc. – this hole-in-the-wall restaurant’s decor will make you feel like the beach is just outside the front door. Sit back, relax, and order a Corona, michelada, or a margarita rimmed with Tajin. Two locations in San Telmo: Balcarce 873 and Estados Unidos 501. chetacoarg.com.ar

NEED MORE SPICY FOOD IN YOUR LIFE?
The typical Argentine diet doesn’t include chili peppers or anything that gives you even a slight ‘burn’ on your tongue, but that doesn’t mean you need to give them up. There are more than Mexican food which could satisfy your spicy tastebuds.

For the best tacos…

la-fabrica-del-taco-in-palermo-buenos-aires

It’s all in the name. La Fábrica del Taco (The Taco Factory) has some of the best tacos in Buenos Aires. With a build-your-own-taco style menu, you can choose your filling and your toppings. Among my personal favorites are the pastor and asado tacos. It goes without saying that their margaritas are equally as delicious as well. Address: Gorriti 5062. lafabricadeltaco.com

For the freshest homemade tortillas…

la-chiripiorca-home-made-tortillas-in-buenos-aires

While I love going out to eat, sometimes nothing can beat a meal cooked in the comfort of your own home. And yep, you guessed it, I love making tacos. Depending on how long you’ve been in Buenos Aires and your level of love of Mexican food, you may or may not have noticed that it is nearly impossible to find traditional Mexican tortillas in any grocery store, thus making my taco-making endeavors very difficult. Enter: La Chiripiorca. Originally from Morelia, Michoacán, María Barrera Sosa started La Chiripiorca out of her own home in Colegiales and makes homemade corn tortillas made to order by the kilo. She also specializes in Mexican pastries like orejas and conchas. To buy from María, contact her through Facebook (/La-Chiripiorca-320259884810480/) or Instagram @mariabarrerasosa.

Go forth and let all of your Mexican-food-eating dreams come true!

Written by Kelly Malloy, who is currently living in Buenos Aires and studying Spanish at Vamos Spanish Academy.

FIVE SPECTACULAR PLACES IN PATAGONIA ARGENTINA FOR OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Argentina is a hub for some of the most exciting things to do around the world. Besides the more popular things that Argentina is known for like football, tango, and wine, the country is also a playground for adventurous souls. Its diverse landscape — from dry deserts to subtropical jungles and almost-Antarctic Patagonia — only helps its cause as an outdoor travel destination. Here is a quick rundown of five spectacular tours and places in Argentina for adventure in the Patagonia region that are sure to satiate the outdoor enthusiasts:

1. Bariloche

places to see when studying spanish in argentina

Its magnificent mountain range, lush forests, and blue lakes make Bariloche a perfect outdoor destination. The things it has to offer may not leave your hair standing on end, but you will be at crossroads on what you want to do first. The lake city offers plenty of water activities such as rafting, kayaking, and scuba diving, but land-based programs such as mountain biking, hiking and climbing aren’t very far away either. Even better, take it to the air with paragliding to enjoy the scenic spectacle that Bariloche is. When you’re done, sample their famous chocolates!

Adventure highlights:

  • Ski down the majestic Cerro Catedral while overlooking breathtaking views of Lake Nahuel Huapi.
  • Summit Cerro Llao Llao at 1,025 meters for the sweeping views of Nahuel Huapi National Park.
  • Kayak in the calm, blue waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi, surrounded by lush mountainsides.

2. El Chalten

go trekking in el chalten while studying spanish in Argentina

Looking for the trekking capital of Argentina? Then you need to visit El Chalten in the middle of Los Glaciares National Park along the Chilean border. El Chalten. also known as Smoking Mountain or Peak of Fire. is the proclaimed trekking capital of Argentina with hundreds of kilometers of trails that wind over and around mountains, glaciers, as well as rivers.

Adventure highlights:

  • Take on the Cerro Torre and Cerro Fitz Roy trek which offers breathtaking views of mountain lakes such as Laguna de Los Tres.
  • Explore the Glacier Huemul and gaze at the clear blue iceberg-dotted waters of Laguna Huemul.
  • Try whitewater rafting along the De Las Vueltas River where Cerro Fitz Roy towers above the canyon.

3. El Calafate

Glaciers and idyllic vistas of the Argentina Patagonia are what makes El Calafate a must-visit when you are visiting Argentina. The small rural town is situated along the shoreline of Laguna Argentina and is the premier off point for people traveling to Los Glaciares National Park. The area surrounding El Calafate is packed with interesting sightseeing opportunities from Laguna Nimez Reserve with 80 species of birds to La Leona Petrified Forest that exhibits a lunar landscape loaded with petrified trees, dinosaur fossils, and intriguing rock formations.

Adventure highlights:

  • Take a catamaran ride on Laguna Argentino and view the surreal blue ice sheets of several glaciers.
  • Kayak along the Upsala Canal for an adventure of a lifetime.
  • Strap-on your crampons and hike Perito Moreno Glacier, one of the few glaciers still growing in the world.
  • Shear a sheep or ride a horse in the Argentina Patagonia or take a trek to Los Perros Waterfall while spending the night at an estancia.
MORE DESTINATION TIPS FOR ARGENTINA
Argentina is full of wonders no matter which part you choose to explore. Find out what other must-see cities to visit in the Northern, Central, Eastern and Western regions of Argentina.

4. Ushuaia

southernmost city in the world ushuaia argentina

Want to visit the southernmost city in the world? Then a stop at Ushuaia is in order. This small community sits off the southern coastline of Isla Grande Tierra del Fuego and is an economic as well as touristic hub for southern Argentina. A former penal colony, Ushuaia sports incredible views of the Beagle Channel and boasts easy access to Tierra del Fuego National Park which is the southernmost national park in the world.

Adventure highlights:

  • Get high on adrenaline while shredding at Cerro Castor Ski Resort.
  • Scale the Martial Glacier to experience panoramic vistas of the Beagle Channel and the Argentina Patagonia.
  • Kayak the Beagle Channel for a bygone experience with idyllic scenery as well as wildlife watching that includes penguins, dolphins and sea lions.
  • A trip into the Tierra del Fuego National Park will have you climbing Cerro Guanaco.

5. Puerto Madryn

Whale watching in Puerto Madryn Argentina travels

Puerto Madryn may not be on everybody’s radar when touring Argentina. The sleepy, deep-water port town springs to life in the summer months when the water temperature increases and the beach area sees many visitors. Situated on the Golfo Nuevo formed by the Valdes Peninsula and Punta Ninfas, Puerto Madryn boasts a large community of whales that surface off the Valdes Peninsula from June to September.

Adventure highlights:

  • Swim with massive sea lions while scuba diving or snorkeling off of Punta Loma.
  • Walk with penguins at Punta Norte on the Valdes Peninsula — a must do between September and April when the little tuxedo-dressed birds appear.
  • Take on acrobatic flights above the waters of Golfo Nuevo as you try kitesurfing in Puerto Madryn beach.
  • Kayak in the Gulf of San Jose, next to sea lions, elephant seals, whales, and dolphins.

As you can see, there is more adventure and excitement in Argentina than a football match in Buenos Aires. With all of the outdoor activities available in the Patagonia Region of Argentina, the area can make dreams come true for adventure seekers that want more from life than just zip lines and tourist attractions. Plot your course of adventure from the above activities and get yourself an airplane ticket! Soon you can be on a glacier, in the ocean or just trekking through one of the world’s most incredible natural landscapes.

Guest Post by Rasmus Juul-Olsen, Founder of Bookmundi.com. Rasmus was an avid traveller in Nepal before founding Bookmundi.com, a global travel booking portal.