Speed dating with ... Buenos Aires

Friday, 8 June 2012 1:05 PM

Want to get a taste of a city before you head there on your gap year? Then why not spend a few minutes speed dating to get to them before you go? This week we’re getting to know Argentina’s capital - bold, brash and yet sophisticated Buenos Aires.

So what kind of people do you usually date?
I am popular with many kinds of travellers, from those backpacking around South America on their gap year, to those that have come to revel in my culture and learn Spanish or Tango dancing, or those a luxury break. I am home cheap eateries, hippy style bars and funky hostels, as well as gourmet restaurants, glamorous clubs and extravagant hotels and can cater to any type of travellers' need.

How would your friends describe you?
Passionate and intense, with a both a bohemian feel and an air of glamour and sophistication. I am well known for my historical events and figures, such as Evita, but equally well known for being the home to one of the best football teams in the world. I’m active and fun loving and definitely know how to party on into the early hours of the morning. With a somewhat European feel, I’m familiar as well as surprising.

What’s your favourite food?
It would have to be a large juicy steak on a parilla (Argentinean style barbecue), for which I’m particularly well known. They come as big your plate and will only cost you about £5. However, not many people know that I’m particularly good for my Italian cuisine too and almost anywhere you can find delicious homemade pastas and pizzas as well as ice cream.

When are you at your best?
Visit me in August and you can be dazzled by the Buenos Aires Tango Festival, of course the best tango festival in the world. This nine day extravaganza is full of shows, exhibitions, concerts and free dance classes. The main avenue is even closed for giant tango dance off. Stay into late August and you watch the pros in The World Tango Championships.

Tell me something not many people know about you... I have a large Asian population, including many from Japanese, Chinese and Korean descent.

Tell me something to remember you by... My name - Buenos Aires means ‘fair or good winds’.

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