Spanish Language & Argentinian Culture

Writers, artists and international students are drawn to this fascinating melting pot.

Known as the “Paris of South America,” this cosmopolitan city is bursting with bookstores and libraries, music venues and theaters, cinemas and cafés. It’s a lively Latin American center with a fascinating mix of European heritage, old-world charm and radical contemporary art. 

With a population of 13 million, Buenos Aires is a diverse melting pot that attracts writers, artists and plenty of international students. While there’s food to suit every taste, it’s mainly European (French, Italian, Spanish) and meat-centric. Grass-fed beef is legendary, and served up in restaurants on every corner. Vegetarians can find many dishes made of cheese or eggs on menus. 

Buenos Aires is huge, but easy to navigate. Get a good sense of the different districts and cultural influences. Starting in San Telmo, the oldest neighborhood of the city, you’ll trace the city’s heritage from 1536 until the arrival of the Italian immigrants, then head to the working-class La Boca, cradle of passions such us tango and football, the colorful houses that give identity to the neighborhood. Along the south coast, you’ll find plenty of green space with a big and beautiful nature reserve surrounded by the vast La Plata River. 

CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Buenos Aires.