Expert: Cintia - 2/27/2005

Question
I will be in Argentina from May 29th to June 7th.  Are they in season for soccer during this time?  If so, do you have recommendations as to what teams to try and watch and how to get tickets?  Also, the price for airline tickets to Iguazu falls has risen to almost $200 on Southern Winds airline and close to $400 on Aerolineas Argentinas.  Should I wait until I get to Buenos Aires to buy tickets in hopes that they are less or should I purchase them at the current price online?  Thank you.

Answer
Dear Michael,

Thank you for your enquiry.

Regarding soccer, according to the National Soccer Association (AFA), the only game that will take place during your stay is River Plate against Gimnasia, on May 29th. This is the official schedule, but please note that this is subject to change and that is why the AFA confirms the games for each weekend just a few days in advance. There are companies that provide a package that includes transportation from/to the hotel, ticket for the game and permanent guide, and we strongly recommend this option because the people at the stadiums don't speak English and it is better to go with a local person. The cost varies depending on the game but it is around $100-150 pesos per person for the whole package.
As for the cost of the air ticket to Iguazu, honestly Iguazu is the destination with the highest demand so waiting till you arrive in Argentina may not be a good idea because if there are any seats left by then, it will certainly be on the less convenient flights, probably the ones that leave Buenos Aires too late or return from Iguazu very early. The sooner you get your tickets, the more chances you have of getting good flights.
I strongly recommend you consider flying Aerolineas Argentinas, especially because Southern Winds no longer has financial support from the government and there is a lot of uncertainty about its future.
Please note that if you purchase your tickets from an argentine agent, the cost of the RT Buenos Aires-Iguazu flying Aerolineas Argentinas is almost $600.00 pesos, i.e. around USD 210.00.

I hope you find this information useful and I wish you a wonderful stay.

Cintia
Buenos Aires, Argentina