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Practical Information

Practical Information

Central Argentina, Argentina

Communication

Claro, Movistar, and Personal are the main mobile carriers in Argentina.

SIM Cards & Data

  • SIM cards (chip) are available at official provider stores. Passport for registration is needed.
  • Prepaid (prepago) data packages are widely available and affordable.
  • For eSIM options, consider Airalo.

Internet Access & Postal Services

Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, hostels, cafes, and restaurants.

Connectivity & Mail

  • Most accommodations offer Wi-Fi as a standard amenity.
  • Correo Argentino is the national postal service. Branches are in Mendoza city.
  • International mail services can be slow.

Language & Translation

Spanish is the official language. English is spoken in most tourist-oriented settings.

Translation Resources

Essential Phrases

Basic Spanish phrases for daily interactions.

Greetings & Inquiries

  • Hola: Hello (OH-lah) / Gracias: Thank you (GRAH-see-ahs)
  • Por favor: Please (por fah-VOR) / Sí / No: Yes / No (see / noh)
  • ¿Cuánto cuesta?: How much does it cost? (KWAHN-toh KWEHS-tah)

More Useful Phrases

Navigating & Ordering

  • ¿Dónde está...?: Where is...? (DOHN-deh es-TAH)
  • La cuenta, por favor: The bill, please (lah KWEN-tah, por fah-VOR)
  • Agua sin gas / con gas: Still water / sparkling water (AH-gwah sin gahs / kohn gahs)
  • ¿Habla inglés?: Do you speak English? (AH-blah een-GLEHS)

Politeness & Understanding

  • Permiso: Excuse me (when passing through a crowd) (per-MEE-soh)
  • Disculpe: Excuse me (to get attention or apologize) (dis-KOOL-peh)
  • No entiendo: I don't understand (noh en-TYEN-doh)
  • Quiero...: I want... (KYEH-roh)

Language Tip

A few Spanish phrases go a long way in fostering positive interactions with locals.

Business Hours & Schedules

Understand typical operating hours and holiday impacts in Mendoza.

Shops

Generally open 9 AM/10 AM to 1 PM/2 PM. Many close for Siesta (2 PM-5 PM/6 PM), reopening until 8 PM/9 PM.

Banks

Typically open weekdays from 10 AM to 3 PM. ATMs are available 24/7.

Restaurants

Lunch: 12 PM/1 PM to 3 PM/4 PM. Dinner: 8 PM/9 PM onwards, peak after 9:30 PM/10 PM.

Banking & ATMs

Banks usually operate Monday to Friday.

Withdrawals & Payments

  • ATMs (Cajeros Automáticos) are widely found in banks and supermarkets.
  • ATMs may have low withdrawal limits and high fees.
  • Using credit cards for purchases is often more advantageous.

Seasonal Schedules

Smaller wineries or businesses in rural areas might adjust hours during low season.

Festival Impacts

  • During the Vendimia festival (late Feb/early Mar), areas may be more crowded.
  • Some businesses may adjust hours for festival events.
  • Bookings for tours and tastings are useful.

Public Holidays

Observed Holidays

  • New Year's Day (Jan 1), Carnival (Feb/Mar)
  • Good Friday, Labor Day (May 1), Revolution Day (May 25)
  • Flag Day (June 20), Independence Day (July 9)

Further Holidays & Impact

  • San Martín Day (Aug), Cultural Diversity Day (Oct)
  • National Sovereignty Day (Nov), Immaculate Conception (Dec 8), Christmas Day (Dec 25)
  • Many holidays are "bridge holidays" (feriado puente), creating long weekends.

Planning Around Holidays

Plan your travel accordingly, as services may be reduced during national holidays.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Familiarity with local customs enriches your travel experience.

Greeting Customs

A handshake (un apretón de manos) is common in formal settings.

Informal & Titles

  • A single kiss on the right cheek is standard between friends and new acquaintances.
  • Use "Usted" for strangers or elders; "Vos" is common among peers.
  • This greeting indicates warmth and familiarity.

Dining & Tipping

Leaving a 10% cash tip for good service in restaurants is standard.

Social Customs

  • Being a little late (5-15 minutes) for social gatherings is common ("hora argentina").
  • Sharing Mate is a social ritual; accept the gourd, drink, and return for a refill.
  • Say "gracias" for mate only when completely finished.

Appropriate Attire

Mendoza is generally casual, but a smart casual appearance is appreciated.

Dress Code

  • Avoid overly casual attire like swimwear for nice restaurants or wineries.
  • No specific dress code for religious sites beyond respectful clothing.
  • Comfortable shoes are useful for city walks and tours.

Photography Ethics

Generally, ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.

Permissions & Restrictions

  • A simple "Permiso?" or "Puedo sacar una foto?" is appreciated.
  • Some museums or wineries may have flash photography restrictions.
  • Be discreet and respectful in religious sites.

Sensitive Topics

Political Discussions

  • Argentines are passionate about politics.
  • Tourists are advised to avoid deeply engaging in such discussions.
  • Unless invited and possessing deep local knowledge.

Falkland Islands Malvinas

  • This is a highly sensitive topic.
  • Avoid discussing this unless well-informed.
  • Always discuss respectfully, acknowledging the Argentine view.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Equality

  • Argentina generally shows progress regarding gender equality.
  • Public displays of affection are common for heterosexual and same-sex couples.

LGBTQ+ Rights

  • Argentina is a strong record of LGBTQ+ rights.
  • This includes same-sex marriage and adoption.
  • Mendoza is generally open and welcoming, with Aristides Villanueva notably diverse.

Cultural Courtesy

Small gestures of respect for local traditions and norms are always appreciated.

Accessibility Information

Travelers with mobility challenges or other special needs consider Mendoza's infrastructure.

Mobility Infrastructure

Mendoza's wide sidewalks and tree-lined streets are beautiful.

Channels & Buildings

  • The presence of Acequias (irrigation channels) alongside sidewalks poses challenges for wheelchair users.
  • Newer buildings and tourist infrastructure show increasing accessibility design.
  • Older parts of the city and some historic Bodegas may have limited accessibility.

Accessible Attractions

The Metrotranvían is generally accessible with ramps and level boarding.

Sites & Venues

  • Parque General San Martín's main paths are wide and relatively flat.
  • Many modern hotels and wineries meet accessibility standards.
  • Inquire specifically when booking accommodations or tours.

Services for Impairments

Specialized services are not widely available throughout the city.

Advice for Travelers

  • For visual or hearing impairments, travel with a companion.
  • Confirm that tour operators provide necessary assistance.

Information Resources

Access current information on accessible tours and facilities.

Seeking Information

  • Contact the Mendoza Tourism Office directly (online or in person).
  • Specialized travel agencies focusing on accessible tourism tailor itineraries.
  • Accommodations meet individual needs.

Payment Tip

Carry small bills for tips and minor purchases, as vendors may not always have change for large denominations.