Buenos Aires: Introduction: Basics

Language: Spanish, but English is spoken and understood at most hotels and restaurants and by a large percentage of the people, from taxi drivers to street performers, you’ll encounter throughout the city.

Currency: Argentine peso.

Time Difference: Two hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).

Calling Codes: Argentina’s country code is +54. When calling a landline from the United States, dial 011 before the country code, then 11 (the city code for Buenos Aires), and then the eight-digit number. If you’re calling a Buenos Aires mobile phone from the United States, dial 011, then 9, and then 11, followed by the eight-digit number. For calls within the city, dial the eight-digit number directly, or when calling a Buenos Aires mobile phone, dial 15, followed by the eight-digit mobile number.

Safety: Unfortunately, the tales of crime you hear about BA are based on fact. Muggings are not an uncommon occurence, especially in touristed areas. It’s best not to wear any expensive jewelry—high-end watches are easy targets. Do not walk on deserted streets at night or take an unmarked taxi. Director Francis Ford Coppola was reportedly burgalarized while living in the Palermo district this fall. According to the newspapers, thieves broke into his home, tied up his staff and stole his computers and other valuables.