Buenos Aires, Argentina Report of what it's like to live there - 03/31/26
Personal Experiences from Buenos Aires, Argentina
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
I have previously lived in Paris, Washington, DC and Chennai.
2. What is your home city/country? How long is the trip to post from there, with what connections? How easy/difficult is it to travel to this city/country?
My home country is the United Kingdom. It is about a 17 hour trip, with a connection in Europe. It is a straightforward journey, just long.
3. What years did you live here?
2024 - 2026.
4. How long have you lived here?
1.5 years.
5. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
Diplomatic mission.
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
Housing is generally good. We live in the city, within close walking distance of the US Embassy. The apartment is very spacious and in a well-maintained building.
The other option is to live in the suburbs to the north of the city. It would be necessary to have a car if you go that route, and factor in about one hour for the commute.
2. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
The availability of groceries is generally good, but there can be a lack of variety. There is an abundance of fresh fruit and vegetables, and more ham and cheese (except for cheddar) than I have ever seen, anywhere! Some products are harder to find, e.g., rice vinegar or random things like chocolate chips, which can be frustrating. Prices are also on the higher side due to inflation, and imported goods are eye-wateringly expensive, like paying $10 USD for a bag of crisps. Household supplies are very available. There are hypermarkets, small supermarkets, lots of health food shops, and independent fruit and vegetable shops.
3. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
I wish I had shipped things like aluminum foil, greaseproof paper (expensive), and plant-derived/natural cleaning products (hard to find). Also the choice of cereal is quite limited, for example you can't find Rice Krispies or Cheerios anywhere. The selection of makeup and toiletries is limited as well, so if you are particular, bring a good supply of what you like from wherever you are from.
4. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
You can eat very well here. Plenty of pizza, fresh pasta, fast food, Chinese, Vietnamese, sushi, lots of cafes. Rappi and PedidosYa are reliable for food delivery, including groceries.
5. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
Mosquitoes can be a problem in the summer, so you have to be careful to keep them out of the home. No other insect issues.
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
We use DPO. Local postal facilities are ok but there aren't many post offices, and it is very expensive to post things abroad.
2. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
Household help is very available and affordable, e.g., nannies, housekeepers, etc.
3. Do you feel that it is safe to walk, run or hike outside? Are there areas where bike riding is possible? What is the availability and safety of outdoor space for exercising? Are these easily accessible?
It is a very walkable city, flat as a pancake. Many beautiful parks to run, cycle and skate in safely.
4. What kinds of gyms or other sports/workout facilities are available? Are they expensive?
Lots of gyms, sports clubs and parks galore. Gyms and fitness classes available across a range of budgets.
5. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Yes. ATMs are fine. I tend to only use them inside the banks, just to be on the safer side.
6. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
For a major capital city, it is surprising how little English the locals speak (or want to speak!). A good working knowledge of Spanish is essential. There are many local language classes and tutors available.
7. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
Most of the time it would be fine, however some pavements are cracked and a bit treacherous, plus some places don't have a elevator.
Transportation:
1. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Public transport is excellent and affordable. I prefer walking, taking Ubers or Cabify (local Uber) and the bus. Very available, at all hours and safe. I tend to avoid the subte (underground) as it gets crowded, but the system works very well. Overground trains are great too, highly recommend day trips on the tren de la costa when you want to get a break from the city.
2. What kind of vehicle(s) including electric ones do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, infrastructure, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car or vehicles do you advise not to bring?
Bring a smaller car which you aren't too precious about getting bumped.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
High-speed home internet is widely available and reliable. I think it took us 2-3 weeks to install it after arrival.
2. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
Mobile phones are very expensive here, so buy one before you come. Local providers are reliable and affordable.
Pets:
1. Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
This is a city of pet lovers, particularly dogs, which you will see everywhere. Plenty of good vet care available, and lots of pet shops, and pet groomers.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
In our embassy community, I would say most spouses are either focusing on childcare, working inside the mission, or working remotely.
2. What volunteer opportunities are available locally?
There are any number of volunteer opportunities available, something to suit everyone.
3. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
Smart casual.
Health & Safety:
1. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
There are some reports of mobile phone theft on the street; just be vigilant and don't walk around staring at your phone, or leave it lying on the table in the cafe! The usual big city street smarts apply. The city is fairly safe, and police presence is very good. As the city doesn't really sleep, there are always lots of people around.
2. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
No major health concerns, though the air quality and noise level of the city can be intense.
3. What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
Air quality is ok, but it is very muggy and humid in the summer.
4. What do people who suffer from environmental or food allergies need to know?
Possibility of seasonal allergies.
5. Are there any particular mental health issues that tend to crop up at post, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (winter blues)?
The seasons are mostly pleasant, with the exception of summer ,which gets unbearably hot and humid. No winter blues, but I definitely get the summer blues, as a pale person from the cool north of the world.
6. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
The climate is divided into four seasons. Winters are mild. Summer days can be sweltering.
Schools & Children:
1. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
There are many preschools and daycares available. Most are Spanish language tuition. We have had an excellent experience with our child's local preschool.
2. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
Lots! Any number of classes and activities for all ages.
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
Quite a large expat community. Lots of people from all around the world. Morale is generally good.
2. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
Hang out in the park, take your kids to the playparks, go to the cinema, go out for drinks or dinner, attend a concert, football match, tango show...
3. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
I would imagine it is great, lots of opportunities for socialising and meeting new people. Good for couples too, plenty to explore together. Families are welcome here, very child-friendly restaurants (although many don't open until 7 or 8pm, so not ideal for younger kids).
4. Is it easy to make friends with locals here? Are there any prejudices or any ethnic groups who might feel uncomfortable here?
It is easy to meet people, most are warm and friendly, but you'll have to work on your Porteño!
5. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
Yes it is good, it is quite a liberal place.
6. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
There can be a feeling of racism here, and some anti-immigrant attitudes.
7. What have been the highlights of your time in this country? Best trips or experiences?
Highlights have been exploring Patagonia, especially Puerto Madryn for penguin and whale watching. Trying typical food, learning about the history and culture, admiring the architecture.
8. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
Music fans should go to Bebop Club, great intimate venue with a variety of genres.
Nice day trips from the city: take the tren de la costa to San Isidro.
9. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
Definitely! Recommend Arandu (various locations) for high quality traditional style clothing and leather goods. Mercado de las Pulgas for antiques, vintage stuff and wood furniture.
10. What are the particular advantages of living in this city?
Convenience of getting around, lots of things to do. Lots of green space.
Words of Wisdom:
1. What do you wish you had known about this particular city/country before moving there?
I wish I had know how busy and noisy it can be. Bring your earplugs!
2. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
Yes.
3. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
thermals.
4. But don't forget your:
factor 50 sunscreen.
5. Do you recommend any books or movies about this city/country for those who are interested in learning more?
Bad Times in Buenos Aires
Lonely Planet guide
Sol Salute blog/instagram
