Buenos Aires Buenos Aires is one of the most European cities in South America. It is a very stylish city with many interesting buildings from the nineteenth century. It is also known as the South American Paris for its architecture and style. Don't miss the neighborhood of San Telmo. A run-down but appealing area halfway between midtown and the south end of the city, it is comparable to New York's Greenwich Village. Cobblestone streets here are rich with early 19th-century colonial architecture and mansions once inhabited by upper-class Spaniards. Buenos Aires has been hit particularly hard by the economic crash that has shaken the country. People (including very young children) can be seen begging on the streets throughout the day, and many come out and night to search through the rubbish for things to help them in their survival. Don't be put off by this. They are victims of a corrupt government, but do be wary - don't walk alone through dark streets etc. Giving to these people is not a bad idea, but try to give them a little something to eat rather than money which can be quickly spent on alcohol. There are countless things to see and do in this passionate city including San Telmo, el Teatro Colon, La Casa Rosada, Plaza 25 de Mayo (see sights for more). For more on Argentina visit: www.uptownargentina.com
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