Money

The offical currency in Argentina is the Peso. Since late 2001, the peso has been allowed to float against the dollar and the exchange rate has varied from 1.20 pesos per dollar to just over 4. Check the current rate of exchange here:
http://www.dolarhoy.com.ar/dh.php

In 2002, Buenos Aires was one of the least expensive cities in the world. That is changing as the exchange rate goes down and inflation drives up prices. Still, Buenos Aires remains a bargain for most things. The exception is for imports, which are subject to huge tariffs.

To get an idea of how many pesos your dollars will buy, try this site:
http://www.xe.net/ucc/


ATMs are plentiful and work most of the time. I use the Citi Bank ATMS in Recoleta, on Callao.
Downtown I use the Banco Frances at Cordoba and Florida. Check with your bank about transaction fees.

Casas de Cambios will exchange dollars to pesos. In Recoleta, I use Metropolis at Quintana 570. Downtown, I prefer ALHEC, Paraguay 641.

I normally take a back up stash of American Express Traveler's checks, just in case. The American Express office will exhange for either pesos or dollars without commission at its office on Plaza San Martin (Arenales 707).

Most hotels and businesses take credit cards, but some charge an extra 10%.

I remember when Ronald Reagan (that bastard) was running for president the first time. The Argentine peso was so utterly worthless due to inflation that he included one in each of his mailings to the registered Republicans. "Don't let this happen to us; elect me" was the general message.

Ben, if you saved yours, it might actually be worth something.

Anyway, I've read up to this point. This is a cool report. I look forward to the rest of it.