A perfect day in Buenos Aires

The weather in Buenos Aires was perfect for walking around the city. In the morning, I enjoyed a walk along the waterfront area of Puerto Madero with one of my guests. The neighborhood differs significantly in the way it feels and looks-the streets clean, the buildings sleek and modern, the shopping and dining upscale. We had lunch at a nice Italian restaurant, women clientele dressed in fine summer fashions and men in button-down dress shirts. A quick survey of other restaurants in the area reinforced that this is an area where appearance matters, so if you intend to dine here, you should dress appropriately.






In the afternoon, the group walked to Recoleta with the intention of visiting the famous cemetery. We arrived a bit too late, though, so opted to tour the Parroquia de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, a centuries-old church with impressive architecture and an equally impressive interior. Afterwards, we walked through a maze of hundreds of vendors' stands in the park, selling everything imaginable. And the infamous dogs of Recoleta that get walked in this park: yes, they do exist, so watch your step in the grassy areas. Now I understand why dog feces became a political matter.






On the way back to the hotel, the group stopped for dinner at the Gran Bar Danzon (Libertad 1161). Located on the second floor of the building, the bar/restaurant was beautifully adorned with sleek modern furniture, concrete, metal, and candlelight. The food was among the best I have ever eaten. I highly recommend the appetizer "tarte tatin de manzanas y queso de cabra con crema de castañas de cajú y microgreens." You'll moan aloud on the first bite - guaranteed! The wine list was extensive as well, with some great inexpensive Malbec choices.