Buenos Aires

Tipping

• Tipping is customary in restaurants (10% is standard if not included in the bill)
• For porters, bellhops, and hotel staff, a small tip is appreciated
• Taxi drivers are not typically tipped, but rounding up the fare is common
• Hairdressers and beauty salon staff expect a tip

Money & Payments

• ATMs are common but may have withdrawal limits and high fees, especially for foreign cards
• It's advisable to use them during banking hours or in secure locations
• Credit cards are widely accepted in larger cities and tourist areas, but smaller businesses and rural areas may prefer cash
• Bringing US dollars (USD) cash can be beneficial due to the parallel exchange rate (informal "blue dollar" market), which often offers a better rate than official exchanges
• Yes, there is a significant black market for cash (the "blue dollar" market), which offers a better exchange rate for foreign currency (especially USD) than official channels
• This market is widely used

Cultural Norms

• Greetings: A handshake is common for men, and a kiss on the cheek (even between strangers) is common for women and between men and women
• Mealtimes: Dinner is typically eaten late, often after 9 PM
• Social etiquette: Argentines are generally warm and social
• Direct eye contact is normal
• Politeness: Use "usted" for formal situations (e
• g
• , addressing elders or people in authority) and "vos" (or "tú" in some regions) for informal situations
• Personal space: Argentines tend to stand closer to each other during conversations than in some Western cultures
• Punctuality: While business meetings usually start on time, social gatherings can be more flexible, and arriving a little late is generally acceptable

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Argentina is one of the most progressive countries in Latin America regarding LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex marriage and adoption are legal nationwide, and there are comprehensive gender identity laws.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

• The legal drinking age is 18
• Public consumption of alcohol is generally permitted, but excessive drunkenness in public is frowned upon and can lead to issues
• Drug laws are strict; possession of even small amounts for personal use can lead to arrest and imprisonment
• Marijuana is illegal

Special Laws

• While not strictly a law, it's common practice to carry identification (DNI for locals, passport for tourists) at all times
• Be aware of pickpockets and petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transport
• Driving laws may be less strictly enforced than in some other countries, and driving can be chaotic, especially in cities