While it may not be possible to travel abroad right now, that’s not to say you can’t discover new places and cultures from the comfort of your own home. In our #TravelFromHomeseries, we’ll explore ways to see the world without leaving home and discover experiences that are the next best thing.
A melting pot of different cultures, Argentina offers a rich, cultural experience – and there’s nothing stopping you from getting a glimpse of it from home. The Spanish were the first Europeans to immigrate to Argentina in the 16th century, followed by Italians and Germans in the 19thcentury. The result? A hugely diverse country with its largest city, Buenos Aires, known colloquially as “the Paris of Latin America”.
Take a walking tour around Buenos Aires
There’s nothing like taking a walk through a city to truly immerse yourself and get a lay of the land. Thanks to virtual tours, you can experience the next best thing from your very own home. See popular districts including La Boca, a neighbourhood known for its colourful buildings and historical landmarks such as Plaza de Mayo, the city square. Take the 360° virtual tour here.
Learn to make empanadas and chimichurri
Argentina is known for empanadas, ground mince encased in a flaky pastry. What better way to discover their cuisine than by making it yourself? Book into an online class with Fran, a chef based in Buenos Aires. All you’ll need is to bring a few basic ingredients and a glass of wine to enjoy during the class (chef’s instructions!). Book into a class here.
Discover Argentina’s political past through street art
Politically, Argentina has had a troubled past including military uprisings in the mid-1950s and more recently, an economic collapse in 2001. Street art has been an important way for Argentinians to make politicalc ommentary and tell their past. Graffitimundo, a non-profit arts organisation in Argentina, has displayed a selection of works in an online exhibit, the Talking Walls of Argentina.
Since 2001, stencils have emerged as a popular medium of street art. You can view a selection of stencilled public artwork through this online exhibition Stencil Art and Activism.
Talk like a true Argentinian
While Spanish is the official language, there is a distinctly unique dialect of Argentinian Spanish. Referred to locally as Castellano, it’s full of quirky idioms. Try learning some below – some aren’t exclusive to Argentina but are used widely nonetheless.
- Buscarle la quinta pata al gato
Literal translation: “To search for a cat’s fifth leg”
Meaning: “Don’t look for a problem if it’s not there”
- Me cortaron las piernas
Literal translation: “They’ve cut my legs off”
Meaning: an expression used to complain orrefer to an injustice. Football legend Diego Maradona’s famous words when h ewas disqualified from the 1994 World Cup after failing a drug test.
- Estar remando en dulce de leche
Literal translation: “To be rowing in dulce de leche”
Meaning: when you’re in a sticky situation, akin to trying to row through the Argentine caramel-like confection.
If you do eventually travel to Argentina, don’t forget your travel insurance as it can cover you for unexpected mishaps. Read the Policy Wording or get a quote for Worldcare. Terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply.