The Hosts:
Angie and Rodrigo have mastered the art of being perfect hosts. They embody the Airbnb concept of wanting guests to experience local culture, unique attractions and hospitality — while offering utter privacy to those who might desire it. In other rental experiences we have done no more than greet the host and sometimes not even that.
With Angie and Roderigo we needed a favor even before our arrival in Argentina. They readily helped although it involved some inconvenience. A few days into our stay they asked if we might like to join them on an excursion to Tigre, a unique experience we never would have explored on our own.
That, of course, suggested we treat them to dinner which was followed by a very late night tour of Puerto Madero. Again, we never would have dreamed of venturing there on our own, especially so late at night.
Angie and Rodrigo even went out of their way to stop by to say “hasta luego” before we departed. Once more they made sure their visit would be welcome.
Chemistry had much to do with it, but Angie and Rodrigo define what “Super Host“ actually means.
The Location:
It is advertised as having the best location in Recoleta. That is an absolutely true statement. Within four square blocks you have five of the best upscale restaurants in Buenos Aires, including the sensational El Burladero and the classic parrilla El Estrebe. There are any number of moderately and low priced restaurants in the immediate neighborhood. There is a Starbucks within 50 yards. Likewise a pharmacy and wine store are within steps. One block away is a gigantic grocery store. There are more fruit and vegetable stores then you can count. If fresh pasta strikes your fancy you’ll find countless delicious varieties at Caprizzi within the four block radius.
It is a 20 minute walk to Recoleta Cemetery and Evita’s Tomb (if you can find it). It is also 10 minutes walking to the Green Line Subte station, which is the key to getting everywhere else you need or want to go in this impressive, sprawling city.
The Apartment:
It is exactly as pictured, and yes the floor is really beautiful. It is a second floor apartment and has a balcony overlooking one of the busiest avenues in Buenos Aires. Thus it can be a little noisy at times. It’s in an older building but the apartment has been recently remodeled. It has four very quick elevators to get you up and down fast.
For two adults and maybe two children it is ideal. In our opinion four adults would find it a bit cramped. If you are from the USA or Europe your electric plugs won’t fit the Argentinian sockets. Angie and Rodrigo thoughtfully supply adapters so you don’t need to worry about charging your phone or tablet. Both bedrooms have smart TVs. The living room has a 50 inch model. Wi-Fi is excellent. The beds are comfortable but almost more important both bedrooms are in the rear, well away from traffic noise.
Our experience in Buenos Aires was extraordinary. Twenty one sunny days straight did not hurt. But what made the trip especially great was our apartment, the perfect location, and especially our wonderful hosts and now friends Angie and Rodrigo.