Gay Buenos Aires

Looking for a hot Latino getaway?  Got that itch to dance the Tango into the wee morning hours?  Buenos Aires is the place for you.  Buenos Aires, the capital of Argentina, is also its largest city and major port.  The city, situated along the southern shore of the Rio de la Plata, is considered the most European of South American cities; it is also the most gay-friendly.

Also know as “the Paris of South America,” the city of Buenos Aires features all of the activities and attractions of a European destination but, with the warm Latino culture, you won’t forget what continent you’re traveling on.  Argentinean culture is a dynamic combination of Spanish, Italian, Amerindian, and African cultures.  As a diverse cultural center, Buenos Aires is home to countless museums, theatres, and performance arts venues, including the Teatro Colon, a world famous opera house.  Recreational venues include zoos, botanical gardens, and parks.  And as a predominantly Roman Catholic country, Argentina’s cities abound with historic cathedrals and churches featuring various historical phases in architecture and style. 

The birthplace of Tango music and dance, Buenos Aires provides numerous opportunities for the traveler to watch, learn, and participate in this dramatic and sensual dance.  From free street performances to professional shows, Tango is available everywhere in Buenos Aires and there are several Tango clubs and dance lessons venues that cater specifically to gay clientele.  December 11 has officially been dubbed Tango Day, so if you are looking to really get your dance on and learn more about the dance, music, and culture of the Tango, make sure your travel plans correspond.

Several “absolute musts” should be included on your Argentinean vacation itinerary.  These include: Argentinean gourmet, Argentinean nightlife, and Argentinean open air markets.  Argentinean restaurants are known for the quality and quantity of the food they serve, especially the meat.  As “the world’s beef capital,” Argentina has an important reputation to maintain, and it does so without hesitation.  How to make the most of a meal?  Order either “el asado” or “la parrillada” and you will be in for a treat of delicious slow cooked meats.  Pair with some with Argentinean red wine and wait for complete satisfaction to set in.  Nightlife in Buenos Aires gets started around midnight—both because dinner starts around 10pm and because that food will take you a while to enjoy!—and doesn’t stop until morning.  Where to begin?  Head to Barrio Norte or San Telmo, both barrios feature a variety of gay clubs and bars; for local color try out a Tango Salon!  After a night on the town, a trip to the market will likely become an afternoon affair; but that’s okay because most are open until 5pm.  On a Sunday check out the Feria de San Pedro Telmo, where you will find craft and antique sellers as well as many street performers and tango dancers.

Although there is no central gay district in Buenos Aires, gay and gay-friendly accommodations, clubs, bars, cafes, and tango salons are available throughout the city.  Several gay hot spots can be found in the trendy barrios of Palermo and San Telmo.  Pick up one of several gay guides available at most kiosks—NX, Imperio, and Otra Guia—for the latest event and venue listings. 

See you in Buenos Aires! (Check out our international calling cards and international travel insurance on our "Travel Accessories" page.)

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