We finally, absolutely, unequivocally decided on our honeymoon destination. Originally, we planned on Turkey. I had visions of flying in hot air balloons over the lunar landscape of Cappadocia, but ultimately we decided it would cost a little bit more than we are comfortable with at this point. I definitely plan to go in the future when we have a bit more time (and, er, money). Instead, we are going somewhere where our dollars will stretch a little farther.
The Plan
We are spending 9 days and nights in Argentina, with the majority of the trip spent in Buenos Aires – the “Paris of the South” and a couple of days in Iguazu Falls – “Big Water.” We will also spend a day at an estancia – a ranch where guests can go horseback riding and feast on steaks and empanadas.
I spent several months in Buenos Aires when I was in college, so I have extremely fond memories of how good great increíble the cuisine is. Which is one of the reasons we chose Argentina as our honeymoon destination. From buttery croissants and creamy gelato to melt-in-your-mouth osso buco and grilled meats of all types and stripes, all at very inexpensive prices when compared to comparable restaurants in the U.S., Buenos Aires is an eater’s dream.
The Budget
I still have to write out a budget for the trip, but thanks to a very favorable airfare, I think we will be able to keep this entire trip at $4,000, with 1/4 of that budget going to the Iguazu Falls excursion. Domestic flights in Argentina is killer for foreign tourists.
The Argentine peso to the dollar is at 4 to 1 right now, so even though Buenos Aires is not the bargain it once was, it’s still a pretty good deal!
The Feeling
The flights are booked. The dates are marked on my calendar. I can already taste the sizzling steak… just 8 more months until I am married and living la vida sabrosa!
photo credit: David Berkowitz via Flickr
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I'm glad you guys aren't choosing the usual destinations – Argentina does sound exciting!
I always wanted to go to Buenos Aires. Please share your experiece when you get back.
You should definitely go. The peso-to-dollar ratio is very favorable right now – I've been in 2005 when it was 3 to 1, and now it's 4 to 1. If you have miles you'll have the most expensive part of the trip (getting to BsAs) taken care of.
How fun!!
You may already know this since you've been there before, but if you speak Spanish, there is a great dance club that gives cheap, but fun tango lessons underneath the Armenian cultural center. It is called 'La Viruta' (http://www.lavirutatango.com/). I went there several times and had a great time. Have a great time!
You're going to absolutely love Iguazu! It's genuinely one of the most spectacular things I've ever seen – make sure you post up some photos when you get back!
I know Iguazu will be great.. but the internal flights! They kill me. USD $350+ per person.