Discover South America

Argentina Quick Tips

The history of Argentina and South America is vibrant but has also had its share of turmoil. Before taking a bicycle tour in South America, it is interesting and informative to understand the local history.

For example, the Argentina economy underwent several years of turmoil with various forms of currency issued as recently as 2001; the most notable were the LECOPS and PATACONES, both of which are easily distinguished from a Peso. Tip: Always do a quick check of your change to make sure you have received a Peso in return.

Another common tendency that will come as no surprise to anyone who has traveled through Latin countries is the traffic; road signs are often considered a suggestion rather than law. Tip: Unless you are familiar with Argentina consider cycling with an expert tour guide who knows the roads and local conditions.

Mate. In addition to a growing reputation among wine connoisseurs, Argentina is also famous for Mate, dried green leaves of the Ilex Paraguariensis - a member of the Holy family. Mate is made by pouring hot water over the leaves, much in the same way tea is prepared, and then sipped from a hollow gourd or metal filter straw (bombilla). Tip: Take time to try out this unique Argentinean beverage and even treat yourself to an authentic silver mate bombilla with guampa gourd as a souvenir.

Bike Tour Basics - Argentina

A bicycle tour in Argentina combines a European flair with a decidedly Latin flavor. Argentina, the world’s eighth largest country, is home to diverse terrain; from the Andean lakes to the swamps of Mesopotamia to the urban, bustling city of Buenos Aires. Argentinean bicycling is a unique destination point for those seeking something out of the ordinary. Before taking a bicycle tour in Argentina here are some helpful tips:

When to travel. Argentina is considered a great year-round destination, although Patagonian destinations such as the Moreno Glacier are best visited in the summer (December to February).

Entry Requirements. To enter Argentina you will need a valid passport, return ticket and tourist Visa. No special vaccination certificates are required. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid and Rabies.

Customs. Argentina places heavy restrictions on animal products, fruit, plant or food products due to the agricultural emphasis of the country.

What to pack. A waterproof jacket and warm clothes are always advisable in addition to planning for quick changes of weather. Argentina is prone to rapid weather changes.

Water. Bottled water or a water filter may be a good idea for those inclined toward a sensitive or easily upset stomach.

Language. Spanish.

Health Risks. Vaccinations for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Rabies and depending upon location, anti-malarial drugs are advised.

Money Matters. All major credit cards are accepted. ATMs are common and currency exchange facilities are available in most airports/hotels. Official currency is the Argentinean Peso.

Time. GMT - 3. Depending on daylight savings time (both in Argentina and the U.S.), Buenos Aires is 1 to 3 hours ahead of EST.

Driving. It is customary to drive on the right in Argentina.

Tipping is appreciated in Argentina with rates comparable to the U.S.

Bike Tour Basics - Chile

With a rich culture, distinctive culinary tradition and stunning natural beauty, a bicycle tour of Chile provides a unique destination for those seeking something out of the ordinary. Before taking a bicycle tour in Chile, here are some helpful tips to get your oriented:

When to travel. Parts of Chile such as the Atacama Desert are considered year round destinations, but other areas such as Santiago are best visited during the spring (September through November) or fall (late February through April). The optimum time to visit the lakes region is during summer (December through March).

Entry Requirements. To enter Chile you will need a valid passport, return ticket and tourist Visa. No special vaccination certificates are required. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid and Rabies.

Customs. Chile places heavy restrictions on fruit, plant and food products due to the agricultural emphasis of the country.

What to pack. A waterproof jacket and warm clothes are always advisable. Plan for quick weather changes.

Water. In general, the water in Chile is safe but bottled water or a water filter may be a good idea for those inclined toward a sensitive or easily upset stomach.

Language. Spanish.

Health Risks. Chile is considered a relatively safe travel destination, however, standard vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, Rabies and other routine precautions are advised.

Money Matters. All major credit cards are accepted. ATMs are common and currency exchange facilities are available in most airports/hotels. Official currency is the Chilean Peso.

Time. GMT - 4. Depending on daylight savings, Santiago is 1 or 2 hours ahead of EST.

Driving. It is customary to drive on the right in Chile.

Tipping is appreciated in Chile with rates comparable to the U.S.

Follow the Exchange Rate

When trying to decide between bicycles tours in Europe versus bicycle tours in South America, one of the easiest methods is simply to take a look at the current exchange rate. As Europeans flock to the states due to the falling dollar, Americans are searching for equally attractive alternatives for their own travel plans. One currently desirable option is a South America bike tour through Chile and Argentina.

1 USD = 3.2 Argentine Peso

1 USD = 466.7 Chilean Peso

1 USD = .5 British Pound

1 USD = .67 EUR

Just a quick glance indicates the best way to get the biggest bank for your (American) dollar is by taking advantage of favorable exchange rates in South America.

How to Get the Most from a Bicycle Tour in Chile

Have you ever spoken to someone just returning from vacation with nothing more to report than how he or she went about purchasing a few tourist trap items they could have just as easily ordered online? Some people never seem enjoy or learn from their travel because they fall into a rut of doing the same thing in a different place. Don't make the same mistake! Here is how to get the most from your bike tour in Chile.

Slow Down. Many people approach travel with a "to do" list of items complete with timed breaks. DuVine bike tours allow you to customize plans to fit your needs and schedule— or lack thereof.

Forget Familiarity. Booking the same hotels and eating at the same restaurants might help you avoid unpleasant surprises, but it also robs you of the opportunity to discover the local flavor of the culture. DuVine guides are well versed in the local culture and have sought out on the most reputable resorts and restaurants for the best of both worlds.

Don't Drive. Few things interfere more with the ability to get a feel for a location than being stuck inside a car going from one point to another. DuVine bike tours allow you to feel the sun, smell the fresh air and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the area.

Tango the Night Away

No discussion - or bicycle tour - of Argentina is complete without mention of the Tango; a dance of passion with a long history in Buenos Aires, the Tango is so closely woven into the fabric of Argentina as to be a part of the cultural identity. Not to be outdone, the Candombe and Fandago are two other dances you may want to familiarize yourself with, but by all means, plan to Tango the night away at least once during your South American bike tour.

Make the most of your trip by planning early and enjoying the preparation;

• Take Tango lessons! If you don't know how to Tango then brush up by taking a few lessons. It's a great way to get into shape and have a lot of fun.
• Learn basic etiquette including how to ask, accept or decline a dance, lead or follow, keep balance and rhythm and execute a few embellishments without creating chaos!
• Try out the "20 Best of Classical Tango Argentino" import for a bit of classic Argentinean scores to really put you in the mood.
• Take or buy a pair of Tango shoes.