Michael and I came home a few days ago after having spent three weeks in Argentina. In case you missed my previous dispatch, you can read it here.

Argentina’s Patagonia is the #1 reason to visit. There are lakes to kayak, horses to ride, rivers to raft, mountains to trek, forests to hike, glaciers to trek, and penguins to visit. If you love nature and adventure, this is the country for you. But there’s more to Argentina than its natural wonders.

Be prepared to fall in love with Malbec wine. Boasting some of the best wineries in the world, Mendoza, the wine capital of Argentina, is worth spending a few days in.

We had some of the best beef steaks, lamb, and sea bass. Argentinians are very proud of their asado (barbeque) with good reason. Dulce de Leche is the lifeblood of all desserts and is used as a breakfast spread, ice cream sauce, and in alfajores (shortbread cookies filled with dulce de leche).

Your US$ will go a long way in Argentina. In 2018, the value of the US$ was 20 pesos to US$1. In 2022, the official rate is 110 pesos to US$ and the blue market rate is 210 pesos to US$1. My advise is to bring US$ in cash and exchange it at a reputable place for the blue market rate (we can provide this service) and pay for everything in cash.

Allow me to translate this in a relatable manner: Dinner for two at Don Julio (World’s best #13 restaurant) $75, Dinner for two at La Tablita in Calafate (best Patagonian lamb) $40, Lunch for two at El Cuartito (best pizza outside of Rome) $15, Leather gaucho belt $20, Alpargatas (the original TOMS) $7, Gaucho cotton beret $12, 1hr massages $25.

Best time to go: Spring (September to November), Summer (December to February), Fall (March and April). Let’s start planning your trip to Argentina!