An Expat Talks about Living in Buenos Aires, Argentina

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Buenos Aires

How long have you lived there?

11 yrs

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

Expat newcomers group. There is a small English speaking Christian community. Join a gym. You have to make and effort on your own to meet "locals". They will warm up to you if you make the first introduction.

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In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

The city is diverse but not as diverse as most. Many Venezuelans are now here. There is a large discrepancy between the rich and the poor. In general, they are not extremely friendly to outsiders in Buenos Aires. There used to be lots of Americans living here, but not as many anymore. You really need to know your Spanish here.

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

It seems like the food industry. This is hard for me to answer because most people are in search of a decent job here...it is hard to find. Many work as teachers but struggle. This is not the place to come looking for work but rather you must have something lined up prior to your arrival.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

Food!!! There are thousands of restaurants! The other major issue is how to survive financially. The peso devaluation makes it impossible to live on, so expats want to work on line and get paid in dollars or euros. The work at all crazy times of the day here and eat dinner very late ...like 9 or 10pm. It is a very European lifestyle with a coffee break around 5pm. They love their football (soccer) here. Lots of holidays too.

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Make sure you have a stable income in the currency of your home country. If you are from the US or Europe, your money will go far. You can eat out everyday affordably. The city has a lot of offer in terms of culture and it is a wonderful "walking town". Great architecture. There is always something to do. The neighborhood of Palermo Soho is fantastic with a mix of people, tons of restaurants, parks, and shopping. This city has a very European feel at a budget price.