The Best Thing about Buenos Aires

If you are like me, you may have had some preconceived notions about Buenos Aires. We have heard Buenos Aires called the "Paris of the South," accompanied by the idea that the people are stuck-up and less friendly than your standard Spanish-speaking person.  This attitude is amplified in Uruguay, where I spent the last four months of 2012.  My fears came to a height as I read Foreign to Familiar by Sarah Lanier.  She listed all of South America as a"warm culture" with the exception of urban Argentina.
One plausible explanation for this stereotype is the fact that most Uruguayans and Americans have only met the Argentines who travel- the sort of people with plenty of money who may tend to be more snobish.
However, after six months of living in Buenos Aires, I am glad to report that these rumors are false. Here are 3 things to know about the people in Buenos Aires.

1) They want to help you.  If you look lost, someone will show up who can explain to you exactly where you are on the map.  If you can't find a Spanish word, or if you speak with any sort of English accent, someone studying English will step up.  And, if you compliment a dish, the cook will gladly rattle off the recipe in vague proportions.

2)  The majority of them are immigrants, children, or grandchildren of immigrants.  Think New York City.  No one is actually from here.

3)  They communicate indirectly.  In Buenos Aires, it is important to realize that an accepted invitation does not equal attendance, and enthusiasm does not always translate into action, but people will always be friendly.

The best thing about Buenos Aires is......
the transportation system
the media lunas
the exchange rate
tango
the people.

The people are the fundamental component of any city.  Here they are diverse.  They have stories. They come from all over the world.  So come to Buenos Aires.  Come and listen.  Sit down with a cafe con leche and a media luna and hear someone's story. There are 4 million versions.