Page 32 - South America

Tastes & Flavors of Argentina
7 days
Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Maypu, Lujan de Cuyo, Uco Valley
ARGENTINA Downtown Providing Fascinating Travel Experiences
Land of sun and good wine, Mendoza is at the heart of an excep- tional region offering the prodigious spectacle of the Andes and the delicacies of the vineyard. The region has the particularity of being located in an arid and seismic zone and yet, thanks to the irrigation canals which collect water from rivers fed by the Mountain, it has become a genuine oasis, with an important agricultural production. The city shelters itself from the blazing summer sun in the shade of large trees which give it a very pleasant green aspect. In summer, the temperature varies f rom 65 to 92 F on average and in winter from 37 to 61 F. There is snow on the moun- tain range from May to September, which limits the possibilities of mountain excursions
Day 1: Buenos Aires
Your guide will welcome at the airport and transfer to the selected hotel. Your Gastronomic trip to Buenos Aires starts with a special treat: Dinner at Closed Door Restaurant. Pick up at your hotel and head to the newest trend in this cosmopolitan city: Closed door restaurants. This is essentially a blend between a restaurants and a
private dinner party. The intimate setting allows for more personal experiences where you get to know the chef and your fellow diners. Closed door restaurants are also known for offering more creative and bold dishes making everyone's experience unique and exciting. At the end your driver will take you back to your hotel [D]
Day 2: Buenos Aires
Your panoramic tour of Buenos Aires includes the most important land- marks of this European city also known as the Paris of South America. In the next 3 hours you will learn the history of Plaza de Mayo, site of the most impor- tant historical events held in
Argentina. Admire its surroundings with several emblematic buildings, like the Pink House, sit of the Executive Power, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Your next stop is in San Telmo. Walk along the cobble-stoned streets and discover the charming antique shops at the oldest residential neighborhood in the city. Next, revive the traditional Tango with live dancers in the neighborhood of La Boca, and stroll down the colorful Caminito Street. Onthetouryouwillalsoseethe mythical Boca Juniors soccer stadium, where Maradona once played, admire the modern-chic Puerto Madero area,
pass through the traditional Retiro neighborhood, and move on to see Palermo before finally arriving at the glamorous Recoleta district with its fine boutiques, parks and cafes. Then go back to the hotel. [B]
Day 3: Buenos Aires
Today you will experience and taste authentic Porte–o flavors. As you walk along the traditional neighborhoods of the city, you will discover some of the restaurants and bars that only the locals know and learn about Argentina's culture and cuisine. Enjoy traditional parrilla food and excellent Argentine wines along with the history of the area. Your desert will be at one of the best artisanal ÒgellateriaÓ (ice creamshops)inthecity. [B/L]
Day 4: Buenos Aires, Mendoza
32 For prices and other details visit www.holidayswithdowntown.com