Brazil and Argentina - Day 4: Buenos Aires - about Argentina, tango and food

I didn't know what to expect from Argentina. Really. First and foremost, I was concerned about security. What people scared me, what posts I loaded. Bullshit, it's just like Brazil, if you don't act like a jerk, you don't have a problem. And so we literally started enjoying Argentina. Someone once told me that there was nothing here, that the country was bankrupt and it was nothing. He was wrong.

Argentina is a fascinating country that combines a rich history with a vibrant culture. With a population of over 45 million people, this South American country is home to many important personalities and traditions. And we're going to show them to you on cruise with RIVIERA TOUR.

Brazil and Argentina - Day 4: Buenos Aires - about Argentina, tango and food

What is Argentina? Together with our guide we have made a ranking:

1. Huge country, huge area

2. Beef - there are more cattle than people in Argentina

3. Tango - it must be seen and experienced, otherwise you won't understand it, an experience of a lifetime

4. Maradona and Pope Francis - they are everywhere, on houses, on posters, on balconies...

5. Evita - a separate chapter that made Argentina famous

6. Dulce de Leche - do you know salko? Well, it's everywhere, not just in our Christmas eggnog

7. Pesos- I have never held so much money and spent so much money. Like 125,000 pesos for lunch.

Argentine Tango: A Dance of Passion and History

The Argentine tango is more than just a dance; it's a cultural phenomenon that grew out of the streets of Buenos Aires at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries. It originated in poor immigrant neighborhoods where various influences of European, African and Latin American music were mixed. Originally, the tango was a dance of the lower social classes, but over time it gained popularity across the board. Our guide tells us all this on the way to a special dinner, and the radio is already playing the first songs to get us in tune.

The history of tango is closely linked to emotions and social changes. The lyrics of the songs often reflect themes such as love, loss and nostalgia. In the 1920s, tango spread to Europe, where it became a hit, especially in Paris, which helped its international popularity.

Today, tango remains an important part of Argentine culture. Buenos Aires is still its world centre, where the prestigious tango championships are held every year. Tango is also popular all over the world and there are many dance schools that teach this sensual dance.

We are having dinner, enjoying a real Argentine steak and the great wine that Argentina is famous for and we don't know what to expect. And then it begins, and we absorb that the meaning of Argentine tango goes beyond the dance itself; it is a way for Argentines to express their emotions and cultural identity. Tango dancers share an intimate connection and communication without words, which makes this dance unique and fascinating for spectators and participants alike. Tango is a symbol of Argentine passion, elegance and pride, and its charm endures to this day. Not only the dancing performances but also the singing. A gentleman in his 80s sings the songs so intensely that at times we think his life is on the line. The singer on the other hand, great performance and above all, she is incredibly beautiful.

Yes, you'll have that kind of evening on a RIVIERA TOUR cruise in South America. For the full schedule and booking options, visit here.

Argentine gastronomy: the flavour explosion of South America

Argentine cuisine is world famous for its excellent steaks and barbecue, known as "asado". Beef, considered the best in the world, is the basis of many dishes in Argentina and its preparation is considered an art. The meat is often grilled over an open fire and served simply with chimichurri, a spicy sauce made from herbs and spices.

The steaks here are cooked over a fire in the restaurant right in front of you and they are really slabs of meat.

Apart from steaks, Argentine gastronomy is influenced by immigrant waves. Italian influences are evident in the popularity of dishes such as pizza and pasta, which are adapted to local tastes. Empanadas, stuffed pouches with various fillings, are also a typical Argentine dish that is popular throughout the country.

Argentina is also known for its love of sweets. Dulce de leche, a caramel delicacy, is a staple of many desserts. Sweet lovers will also appreciate alfajores, delicate cookies filled with dulce de leche and coated in chocolate or coconut flakes. Of this we were really. There was salsa everywhere, really everywhere, they literally rub it into every dessert and we were over-sweetened. It's an interesting contrast: the wine - a blob of beef and the dluce de lecho - that's Czech salko.

What makes Argentine gastronomy special is its ability to combine simplicity with rich flavours that reflect the country's cultural diversity. Food in Argentina is not only a means of satiation, but also a social event that brings families and friends together. Sharing food is a cornerstone of culture in Argentina, and this is what makes its gastronomy so unique and unforgettable.