| By d'Artagnan on Monday, October 07, 2002 - 01:07 am: Edit |
Learn or write down the addresses for your main destinations for cab drivers. Cafe Orleans is at "San Martin y Cordoba". All the cab drivers will know Recoleta, but may ask where you want to be dropped off. I just said "Cine" which is near the movie theater.
Break larger bills when you can and always keep plenty of small change for taxi fares. I found it unusually difficult to get change for larger bills. Recoleta restaurants, other large restaurants, and night clubs are good places to break larger bills into smaller ones. Never pool your singles to pay for a meal in a busy restaurant.
Watch for pickpockets, especially in the busy shopping area near Cafe Orleans (Galeria Pacifica). No one attempted to pickpocket me, but I read this a spot where they hang out and I could imagine why with the heavy crowd of shoppers wandering about and many distractions.
If you give a beggar money, expect many more to witness it and come out of the woodwork.
You can forget about sticking to your diet here. Food is plentiful, exquisite, and inexpensive. Just relax and expect to hit the gym when you get back home.
The girls here are much less likely to approach than in most other places I have been. Keep in mind beforehand that they won't be as aggressive before you meet them so you won't be disappointed or think they are not interested.
Feel free to add more...
| By Ezy on Monday, October 07, 2002 - 03:11 am: Edit |
A'Art: Good idea...helpful hints...
*The value added tax (VAT) is 21%...be sure to ask when you make reservations if tax is included...21% can make a considerable difference.
* Prime condoms are made to conform to U.S. standards...unlike many condoms in South America that are very unreliable.
* Business cards for taxi drivers....pick up cards from the chica bars (eg, Playwomen) and your hotel to hand to taxi drivers. Simplifies things if you don't speak Spanish.
* American Express (Plaza San Martin) will exchange traveler's check's for no commission.
* Water is safe to drink, but I usually don't. Kiosko's (walk up markets) are everywhere and sell water very inexpensively.
* When quoted a rate, whether from a chica or hotel, be sure and clarify whether it is in pesos or dollars...big difference.....