Mistakes Tourists Make in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is one of the most popular destinations in South-America. Known for its tango, the Paris of the South, and the beautiful culture. But as with any other place, the locals like to point out what are the mistakes tourists make in Buenos Aires.

From bad manners to anecdotes, but also truths you will discover when you visit Buenos Aires. Be warned, the porteños’ judgments are straight to the point.

Read also: top 15 things to do in Buenos Aires (the local’s selection)

The mistakes tourists make in Buenos Aires

Some mistakes are laughable but others are very serious. I give you an insight into what the locals think of the most common mistakes tourists make in Buenos Aires.

Saying that Dulce de Leche is caramel

Dulce de leche and caramel are two confectionery staples that are popular all over the world. However, despite their similarities, they are not the same thing. In Buenos Aires, dulce de leche is a staple of Argentine cuisine and culture, but many people often mistake it for caramel. In this article, we'll explore the differences between these two sweet treats and why it's wrong to say that dulce de leche is caramel in Buenos Aires.

Dulce de Leche: A Unique Argentine Treat

Dulce de leche is a thick, sweet sauce made from simmering milk and sugar together until it thickens and caramelizes. The name literally means "sweet milk" in Spanish, and it is a staple in Argentine cuisine. Dulce de leche is used in a variety of ways, from spreading it on toast for breakfast to using it as a filling for cakes, cookies, and candies. It's also often added to coffee, ice cream, and other desserts to add a rich, sweet flavor.

Caramel: A Global Confectionery Favorite

Caramel, on the other hand, is a sugar-based confectionery that is made by melting sugar until it turns golden brown and forms a sticky, syrupy consistency. Unlike dulce de leche, caramel is often used as a topping for desserts and confectioneries, and it's also used as a flavor in candies, chocolates, and other sweet treats.

Why Saying Dulce de Leche is Caramel is Wrong in Buenos Aires

While dulce de leche and caramel may seem similar, they are, in fact, different in several ways. Dulce de leche has a thicker consistency, a distinct milky flavor, and a lighter color than caramel. Additionally, dulce de leche is made by simmering milk and sugar together, while caramel is made by melting sugar alone. This difference in the way they are made gives dulce de leche its unique flavor and texture, and it is what sets it apart from caramel.

In Buenos Aires, dulce de leche is a beloved part of the city's cultural heritage, and it is an important part of the Argentine culinary tradition. Saying that dulce de leche is caramel is like saying that wine is the same as grape juice. It simply isn't true, and it disregards the unique flavor, texture, and cultural significance of dulce de leche.

In conclusion, while dulce de leche and caramel may share some similarities, they are not the same thing. Dulce de leche is a unique Argentine treat that is an important part of the city's cultural heritage, and it is wrong to say that dulce de leche is caramel in Buenos Aires. So, next time you're in Buenos Aires, be sure to try some of the delicious dulce de leche treats that are available, and appreciate the unique flavor and cultural significance of this Argentine staple.

Not speak a word of Spanish

I should actually approach this positively. Argentina ranks as the best student of South American countries on the EF English Proficiency Index. Argentina is ranked number 27. Even higher than in France and Hong Kong.

The Importance of Speaking Spanish in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a vibrant, multicultural city that is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. It's a city that attracts tourists from all over the world, and for many people, a trip to Buenos Aires is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, not speaking a word of Spanish while visiting Buenos Aires can limit your experience and even be considered wrong by some locals. In this article, we'll explore why speaking Spanish is so important in Buenos Aires, and why it's a good idea to brush up on your language skills before you go.

The Language of the City

Spanish is the official language of Buenos Aires, and it is spoken by the vast majority of the city's residents. While English is widely spoken in tourist areas and among the city's expat community, speaking Spanish will give you a deeper understanding of the city's culture and help you connect with the locals. Whether you're looking to sample the local cuisine, navigate the city's streets, or simply have a conversation with a local, speaking Spanish will make your experience in Buenos Aires much more enjoyable.

Breaking Down Barriers

Not speaking Spanish can be a barrier to truly experiencing the city's culture. Many of Buenos Aires' most interesting and authentic experiences are found away from the tourist hotspots, and speaking Spanish will allow you to venture into these areas and connect with the locals in a way that you simply can't if you don't speak the language. Whether you're looking to try the city's street food, explore its vibrant neighborhoods, or simply have a conversation with a local, speaking Spanish will help you break down these barriers and immerse yourself in the city's culture.

Respect for the Locals

For many locals in Buenos Aires, speaking Spanish is a matter of pride. The city has a rich cultural heritage, and the Spanish language is an important part of that heritage. By speaking Spanish, you are showing respect for the city and its residents, and you are demonstrating your commitment to understanding and appreciating the local culture. This respect can go a long way in building relationships with the locals and making your time in Buenos Aires even more enjoyable.

Not speaking a word of Spanish in Buenos Aires is not only limiting your experience, but it can also be seen as wrong by some locals. Whether you're looking to sample the local cuisine, navigate the city's streets, or simply have a conversation with a local, speaking Spanish will make your experience in Buenos Aires much more enjoyable and meaningful. So, before you go, be sure to brush up on your Spanish skills and get ready to immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage.

Expecting Dinner at 18:00 in Buenos Aires is Not Ideal and Oh, So Wrong

Buenos Aires is a city renowned for its rich culture and delicious cuisine. With its bustling food scene, it's no surprise that dining out is one of the most popular activities for tourists and locals alike. However, if you're planning to eat dinner in Buenos Aires, it's important to be mindful of the city's unique dining culture and customs. In this article, we'll explore why eating dinner at 18:00 in Buenos Aires is not ideal, and what you should know before making your dinner plans.

Late Dinner Culture

One of the most distinctive features of Buenos Aires' dining culture is that dinner is typically eaten much later than in other cities. While dinner in many parts of the world is usually served around 18:00, in Buenos Aires it's not uncommon for dinner to be served as late as 21:00 or 22:00. This late dinner culture is a reflection of the city's vibrant nightlife and its residents' love of socializing over a good meal.

Empty Restaurants at 18:00

If you choose to eat dinner at 18:00 in Buenos Aires, you may find that many of the city's best restaurants are empty or have limited menus. As a result, you may miss out on some of the city's most authentic and delicious dishes, and you'll also miss the opportunity to experience the city's bustling dining culture. Additionally, many restaurants don't even open until later in the evening, so if you're looking for a meal at 18:00, you may have difficulty finding a place to eat.

Underwhelming Dinner Experience

Eating dinner at 18:00 in Buenos Aires can also lead to an underwhelming dining experience. Without the bustling energy of the city's late-night dining scene, you may miss out on the excitement and atmosphere that make dining out in Buenos Aires so special. Furthermore, if you're looking for a more upscale dining experience, you may find that many of the city's best restaurants only serve their full menus later in the evening.

In conclusion, eating dinner at 18:00 in Buenos Aires is not ideal, and it can lead to a less enjoyable and less authentic dining experience. To fully appreciate the city's dining culture, it's best to wait until later in the evening to have dinner. Whether you're looking to sample the local cuisine, socialize with the locals, or simply experience the city's vibrant dining scene, eating dinner in Buenos Aires at a later hour will give you a more memorable and enjoyable experience.

Not Being Vigilant About Pickpockets in Buenos Aires: A Tourist's Mark

Buenos Aires, like many major cities, has its fair share of pickpockets looking to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists. While these criminals can be found in any tourist hotspot, it's important to be especially vigilant when visiting Buenos Aires. Unfortunately, tourists who are not mindful of their belongings and surroundings are often targeted by pickpockets, making them a prime target for these criminals.

Not being mindful of pickpockets can be a major mistake for tourists visiting Buenos Aires, as these criminals are known for their sly and cunning tactics. They can blend into crowds, and their methods of distraction and deception can make it difficult to catch them in the act. To avoid falling victim to pickpockets, tourists should take extra precautions such as carrying their valuables in a secure and concealed manner, being mindful of their surroundings, and avoiding displaying large amounts of cash.

In conclusion, not looking out for pickpockets in Buenos Aires is a common mistake made by tourists. This mistake can result in a negative experience, with tourists losing their valuables and potentially becoming victims of theft. To enjoy a safe and hassle-free visit to Buenos Aires, tourists should be mindful of their belongings and vigilant about the presence of pickpockets.

Walking in Buenos Aires: The Need to Look to the Ground

Buenos Aires is a bustling city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful architecture. The city is also home to numerous landmarks, including the Obelisco de Buenos Aires, which stands in the center of Plaza de la Republica. While these sights are certainly worth seeing, it's important for visitors to keep their eyes on the ground when walking around the city.

This is due to the uneven pavement, cracks, and other hazards that can be found on many of Buenos Aires' sidewalks and streets. To ensure a safe and enjoyable walk around the city, visitors should take care to look down at their feet, paying close attention to the ground in front of them. Doing so will help them avoid tripping, falling, or injuring themselves, which could potentially ruin their visit to Buenos Aires.

In conclusion, while it's important to take in the sights and sounds of Buenos Aires, visitors should also keep their eyes on the ground when walking around the city. This will help them avoid hazards, stay safe, and make the most of their visit to this vibrant and historic destination.

And I didn’t talk yet about how much dog poo there is in Buenos Aires. It is unbelievable.

Missing the Best Tango Show in Buenos Aires: Don't Make this Mistake

For those visiting Buenos Aires, attending a tango show should be at the top of their to-do list. This beautiful and captivating dance is deeply ingrained in the city's culture and history, and is a must-see for anyone interested in the arts or Argentine culture. Some of Buenos Aires' most iconic tango artists have graced the stage of the city's classic venues, including Aníbal Troilo, Osvaldo Pugliese, Roberto Goyeneche, and Leopoldo Federico.

Visitors to Buenos Aires can choose from a variety of tango shows, each offering a unique and memorable experience. The 5 best Buenos Aires tango shows include Esquina Carlos Gardel, Carlos Gardel 3200, and Abasto Carlos Gardel. Carlos Gardel is to tango what Godzilla is to Japanese B-movies, and Gardel is the point of reference in whose shadow all others must exist.

Missing the best tango show in Buenos Aires would be a mistake. This is an opportunity to see some of the world's best tango dancers perform this beautiful and passionate dance, in a city that is widely considered to be its birthplace. With so many great options to choose from, there's no excuse not to see a tango show when in Buenos Aires. Don't miss out on this unique and unforgettable experience.

Don’t talk about politics

I challenge you to talk to a Porteño about politics. It is a subject that even separates households. Argentine politics are hugely polarized, and from whatever side you look at it, every side is always right.

Buenos Aires is a city of distinction, with a vibrant cosmopolitan flair that is more European in character than Latin American. It is a city of diverse neighborhoods and has been a major publishing center for Latin America, with a wide variety of newspapers, including several in foreign languages. Despite its rich cultural heritage and openness, it is wise to avoid discussing politics in Buenos Aires.

Political issues are a sensitive subject and may cause unwanted conflict. Additionally, Buenos Aires has a complicated political history, with periods of military dominance in which newspapers struggled for free expression. To ensure that your conversations in Buenos Aires are harmonious and positive, it is best to steer clear of political topics. Enjoy the city's many other attractions, including its lively cultural scene, vibrant coffeehouses and bars, and delicious food.

Not trying the ice cream or wine

It is incredibly delicious. Ice cream after dinner or in between on a hot day. Or a delicious glass of wine with dinner. You have to be in Buenos Aires for both delicacies. The fantastic ice cream is due to the Italian ancestors and the wine of Mendoza is top quality.

Failing to try the ice cream or wine in Buenos Aires would be a true shame. The city is known for its rich and velvety ice cream, which is more similar to Italian gelato than any ice cream found in North America. The ice cream industry in Buenos Aires is thriving, with people taking comfort in this sweet treat during the pandemic. Not only is the ice cream a staple in the Argentine diet, but people can also enjoy it while people-watching in the afternoon.

Wine is also a must-try in Buenos Aires. The city is located in the heart of Argentina's wine country and is home to numerous wine bars and restaurants. The region is famous for its Malbec wine, which is known for its rich flavor and is often paired with steak.

Overall, trying the ice cream and wine in Buenos Aires should be on the top of any traveler's list. Whether it is a sweet treat in the afternoon or a glass of rich Malbec with dinner, these culinary experiences will add to the city's already vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

As a travel writer, I have a passion for exploring new destinations and sharing my experiences through the written word. My writing is engaging and evokes a sense of adventure in the reader. With a strong background in legal blog content, I have the ability to infuse my writing with a thorough understanding of laws and regulations surrounding travel. Whether I am covering the latest trends in travel or delving into the complexities of visa requirements, I bring a unique perspective to the table. I am always looking for new and exciting opportunities to share my passion for travel and the law, and I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to any organization looking to reach a wide audience of travel enthusiasts and legal professionals.

Jerry Nelson is an American writer living the expat life in Argentina and winner of the Revi 2021 Reader Award. You can find him at any of hundreds of sidewalk cafes and hire him through Fiverr, join the quarter-million who follow him on Twitter or contact him at [email protected]

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