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We lived in Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina and the world's 7th biggest city, for three months -- from February to May, 2011. It was still summer when we arrived, and after a chilly winter in Savannah, GA, we were happy to explore our new temporary home in shorts and sandals. By the time we left, the temperatures had cooled down, but we were still enjoying brisk, sunny fall days.
Avenida 9 de Julio, which cuts north-south through the city is one of the world's widest avenues. Where it intersects Calle Corrientes, the city's most emblematic symbol shoots grandly into the air: the Obelisk of Buenos Aires. The phallus-shaped monument is the perfect symbol for a country that so proudly basks in machismo.
Towards the end of our time in Buenos Aires, with too many great restaurants left to visit, we went on a binge. Parrillas, pizzerías, cafés, morning, noon and night. "Jürgen", I said during our last meal, pork grease dripping repulsively off my chin. "This is getting disgusting. Tomorrow, let's heat something healthy." Abuela Pan, your time had come.
Walking through Palermo's charming Plaza Güemes, on the way to a lunch meeting, we couldn't help but take a peek inside the imposing Basilica Espíritu Santo.
We confidently strode up the stairs of an impressive neoclassical building, convinced that it was the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes. Passing between the massive gray Doric columns, a guard brusquely informed us that we were actually at the University's Law School. He shoved us off toward a nearby clump of dark red clay, which had been been molded into the form of a building.
I can count on exactly one finger the number of times I've stood before a flower sculpture and thought to myself, "Now that is really fucking cool".
The geographic center of Buenos Aires is Caballito, a charming neighborhood with large green spaces, and well served by the Subte. Although it's not on the top of the normal tourist itinerary, this barrio has enough highlights to make it worth a trip.
In 1994, Plaza Serrano was renamed to honor the famous Argentine author Julio Cortázar, but locals will look at you in confusion if you ask for directions to Plaza Cortázar. Everyone still knows the lively, circular heart of Palermo Soho as Serrano.
Looking for a small hotel with an individual touch? Then you might want to check out the Boutique Hotel Bonito. Near Plaza Congreso, this hotel is ideally located to explore the entirety of the city ... from here, you can easily reach any spot in Buenos Aires. Hip, stylish, and I especially love the idea of a common living room.
