This eBook was born in 2012 – but was originally printed (last edition – 2003).

The purpose of this eBook was then – as it is now – to share our own experiences so each newcomer can find out everything he or she needs to know assembled in one place to help them de-code what may seem strange and help them understand this country, this city and its people better and quicker. In other words, to say a very warm Argentine ¡HOLA! to you and invite you to find what you need – from where to rent or buy a house and how, to where to send the children to school, to whom to call in an emergency.

This relocation guide is unique: it was written by dozens of women who are committed to sharing their expertise, knowledge and time so others can have an easier time adjusting to a new place; a place we know well.

The guide addresses every aspect from culture shock and house-hunting, to legal issues, traveling with pets and medical aspects of living in a new place; it covers safety and security guidelines, driving tips, shopping guidance and even lists which products you may want to bring over, since they are not available, or hard to find. The guide also includes information on history, culture and art (with special attention given to tango), customs, shopping and climate. It also gives some travel advice, and even covers how to prepare for leaving, for those who need to move on.

We included a glossary, which will help you in your first steps, before you start rolling the Argentine “castellano” with its unique sounds, on your tongue. It focuses mainly on schools, children, foods and other shopping which you will need, key legal words, and major house-hunting words.

This new online version has been updated to appeal to anyone coming to live in Buenos Aires, for a month or a lifetime!

Patricia Caviezel