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How can I contribute?Argentina uses the peso with paper money in denominations of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 pesos. The $ sign in front of prices is also used for pesos. Visa, American Express, Mastercard and Diners Club are commonly accepted by most major hotels, shops, tours and restaurants but it's often cash only outside major touristic zones. There are plenty of ATMs in the major cities although transaction fees and the poorer exchange rates may apply. Many also have 100 peso withdrawal limits. You may find it better to convert your currency at hotels, banks, money exchanges (casas de cambio) and the airport.
Spanish is the national language with a distinguishable accent influenced by Argentina's Italian heritage. There are also many other languages spoken in Argentina, including Italian, German, Arabic, English and French. Indigenous languages include Aymara, Quechua, Guarani, Mapuche and Toba.
The Argentine railway network was once one of the most extensive in the world, but now commuter train travel is centered around Buenos Aires and a few surrounding provinces. The public railway, Ferrobaires, operates out of the Retiro, Constitucion and Once stations in the capital. When traveling these routes, keep an eye on your belongings. There are plans to revive the train network as lines are progressively reopened. For a bit of adventure, check out the Train to the Clouds and the Old Patagonian Express.
Driving is a great way to get around Argentina. Although there are relatively few freeways outside the capital of Buenos Aires, roads are good with relatively few potholes. The speed limit in most rural areas is 70 mph (110 km/h), and most drivers respect these limits, but make sure to pack your defensive driving hat. Argentine driving can be challenging and the rules sometimes confusing with so many aggressive drivers on the road, especially those fond of tailgating. You'll most likely run across police checkpoints, denoted by orange cones - just make sure to have your driver's license and rental car insurance papers on hand. And drive with your lights on during the day - it's the law.
The country has a fine bus network that connects most cities and towns. Long-distance buses are called micros and are usually quite comfortable, air-conditioned and safe with luggage storage in the hold. If traveling overnight, the Cama Suite class provides a fully reclining seat. Many companies accept credit cards. Check Plataforma10.com and Centraldepasajes.com.ar or directly on the bus company website (Andesmar, Chevallier, Flecha Bus, El Rapido Internacional, to name a few) or at the terminal for fares and schedules.
Various companies fly throughout Argentina and to international destinations in Europe, South America and the United States. LAN, the only non-government owned airline in the country, is perhaps the most efficient, flying only to the major cities and routing through Buenos Aires.