Food & Clothing:

Parilla means grill, and grills are for meat. Be aware that, in Argentina, cattle are well cared for and well cooked. No part of the animal is wasted, as you will discover on your plate.

Carnivores rejoice; Argentina is a piece of your heaven.

Given the preponderance of grilled meat in Argentine cuisine, vegetarians might worry about fitting in culturally. They need not worry about starving, however, as Western European (especially Italian) venues frequently offer vegetarian options, and there are even a number of vegan restaurants.

Lunch is traditionally eaten between 12:00 pm and 3:00 pm. Many people in Argentina enjoy tea around 5:00 allowing them to hold off until supper which is usually somewhat late - if you go out to eat before 8:30 PM the restaurants will be nearly empty.

The tap water in many of Argentina's larger cities is heavily chlorinated and does not taste very good, although it is safe to drink.

A 10% tip is customary at restaurants and cafes.

Participants are responsible for their own meals.

Buenos Aires is seasonal, so be prepared to wear shorts and t-shirts in the summer, and warm jackets and sweaters in the winter. A lighter jacket for spring evenings and fall days will come in handy.

Teachers should be prepared to dress professionally while working. Some teachers wear suits. Many of your students will, and certainly language schools don't permit jeans or athletic shoes. At the very least, males should bring a few ties and dress shoes and females dresses or skirts with sweaters or nice blouses.