In this 12-day travelogue, I will take you on a journey through Argentina, where I saw the vibrant cityscapes of Buenos Aires, the majestic Iguazu Falls, the icy wonders of El Calafate, the trekker's paradise of El Chalten, and the remote beauty of Ushuaia. I will share stories, advice, and unforgettable experiences from this dynamic country.
Arrival in Buenos Aires: A Smooth Landing and a Quiet Start
Jun 06, 2025
I landed in Buenos Aires on March 26, 2023, after more than 30 hours of travel from Manila. My route included layovers in Dubai and Rio de Janeiro, so by the time I arrived at 8:40 PM, I was exhausted but focused. Immigration at Ezeiza International Airport was straightforward, and my guide, Daniela, was waiting at the arrivals area with a sign bearing my name. Seeing her there brought a sense of relief and ease after such a long trip.
Buenos Aires English Guide (Neth Valencia)
The ride from the airport to Recoleta took about 45 minutes. I checked in at the Recoleta Grand Hotel, where I was assigned a Deluxe Studio room. The hotel is in a prime location, near parks, restaurants, and boutique shops. The Wi-Fi was reliable, the room was spacious, and basic amenities like toiletries, slippers, a minibar, and two complimentary bottles of water were provided. Breakfast was included and consisted of eggs, bacon, fruit, cereal, and pastries.
The lighting in the room leaned toward the warm side, which some travelers might find cozy while others may prefer a brighter space. The interiors had a more classic than modern feel, but overall, the room was clean and comfortable.
Recoleta Grand Hotel - Deluxe Studio Room (Neth Valencia) Recoleta Grand Hotel - Deluxe Studio Room (Neth Valencia) Recoleta Grand Hotel - Deluxe Studio Room (Bathroom) (Neth Valencia)
I chose not to venture out that night. With the days ahead fully packed, I decided to stay in, recharge, and get organized. For travelers arriving late in the day, I’d recommend doing the same. Buenos Aires is best enjoyed with a fresh mind and well-rested body, and a quiet first evening offers the chance to settle in and adjust to the local rhythm.
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