Traveling to the 'Paris of South America,' Buenos Aires

There's wonderful music, Evita, tango, shopping, food and wine here.

I was sent on assignment to look at a five-star property and  tours our destination specialist runs for the Signature Travel Network. The city is called the "Paris of South America." Lots of elegant, well dressed people, and the hotel I visited was out of this world: lovely grounds, great location, and outstanding staff. The spa was one of the best I have visited.

Palacio Duahau

Palacio Duhau, the Park Hyatt, is right in the heart of the French heritage district of Recoleta.  It is close to MALBA (the Latin American Art Museum).

This palace was a family home, with fantastic woodwork, marble, and complete with large ballroom. They have lovely hotel rooms and suites in the Palace, and have built a new modern wing across the garden. Great gym, pool and spa. They have their florist staff working in a lobby so you can watch them create their floral masterpieces.

There's a great wine and cheese bar. You pick your wine and they give you an Argentinean cheese which complements it. I could have stayed there and missed dinner, it was so good.

Walking around

The shops are just like Paris, and making custom shoes is a big business. Prices very reasonable.  

Most people are of European background, and it’s a very clean city. I was told they have several demonstrations each week but all peaceful. It’s a easy city to walk around.

I had a private guide, a university professor who teaches English, and works for the tour company part time.

The tango

I was taken to Rojo Tango, the best place in town for dinner and a tango show. Eight dancers, two singers, and six in the band. A great night out. I don’t like eating dinner at 9.p.m. or later, like they do here. Shops are closed from 1.p.m. to 4.p.m. they take a nap.

Evita

The most moving part of my trip was a visit to the cemetery to see the grave of Eva Peron, Evita.

I went early in the morning yet there was a queue of people waiting to place flowers and prayer cards at the family burial site. People think she is a saint in this town. 

It was chilly. Autumn there.  Everyone in boots and wool coats. No American tourists were in sight; their visitors are from South American countries.

Many of the wines are sold in the U.S. Do check one out at Draegers, or other local supermarket. Try the Malbec.

Next week – My visit to London

Maureen Jones runs All Horizons Travel, Inc on  160 Main Street in Los Altos and writes for luxury travel publications.