"Back to Charming Buenos Aires..." Buenos Aires by besbel

I first came to Buenos Aires in April 2005, but could only stay for three days. That time I lodged in Recoleta, a lovely, trendy neighborhood that reminded me of Geneva and London sometimes, close to everything. During that short stay I walked the 9 de Julio avenue until I reached the Obelisco. I also walked around Palermo and its huge parks, ate red meat everyday at the restaurant at the corner of my hostel and did some leather shopping nearby. I met some people randomly, and they were so kind that made me feel welcomed. I absolutely adored the place and promised myself to come back one day, to see and live everything I missed that time.

So, this time arrived now! Due to work reasons I went back to Buenos Aires last week. This time I lodged in downtown, very close to Palacio San Martin, where the meeting my office was organizing took place. So, in my free time, I could explore areas that I couln't see the first time, like the very downtown, Retiro, San Telmo and La Boca. I also ate in restaurants in Puerto Madero, bought books in Cuspide Bookstore and also did more leather shopping in Galerias Pacifico and Florida Avenue.

In this second visit Buenos Aires still kept the charm and grace that made me fall for it the first time. Some things has changed, like prices (higher than during my first visit) and the political environment due to the next presidential elections. But the rest kept the same. The beef is still the greatest I've ever tried, the leather the best I've ever wore, the bookstores are the cheapest and have the greatest offer in this part of the continent, and the people one of the kindest I've ever met. I particularly loved to talk to anyone there, from a diplomat to a taxi cab, because all of them were opinionated and had a particular vision of things, something that is not easy to find anywhere.

Being this time in areas like San Telmo and La Boca helped me have an integral view of the city, and a lively one as well! Next time I will lodge in San Telmo, I just fell in love with the area! I have to come back next time, to enjoy some more spectacles, buy some more books, get some Piazzola records and meet more people -- essentially, know much more of this fascinating place.

• Pros:History, people, food, music, books...
• Cons:Prices are up again :(
• In a nutshell:Mi Buenos Aires querido... cuando te volvere a ver?