Neighborhoods: San Telmo
Continuing with some of the most interesting neighborhoods of Buenos Aires, this time I am writing about San Telmo, by far the most bohemian neighborhood of Buenos Aires. It is also one of the oldest. During the 19th Century it was a district where the richest families of Buenos Aires settled. But at the turn of the century, they all fled from the barrio after outbreaks of yellow fever and malaria, leaving their big houses to immigrants and former slaves. Nowadays, ancient houses and cobblestone streets, restaurants and pubs, tango and peculiar characters give this place a very special atmosphere. Every little detail is charming. Pay attention to the ornaments, even the billboards of restaurants and pubs, and also to the carved wooden doors and the ironwork of window frames. In the heart of the neighborhood you will find Plaza Dorrego. On weekends, from 10 am-5 pm, there is a flea market there, where you can find all kind of things to buy. Booth after booth of antiques, jewelry, silver pieces, glassware, linens, handmade crafts and other items are offered for sale. This is one place in Buenos Aires where bargaining is expected. There are also various activities to spend the day enjoying. From a simple walk around the area, to shopping for antiques, having lunch or a beer, you will be amazed at how beautiful it is. Imagine you are walking down the street and you see tango dancers on the sidewalk, or human statues of Carlos Gardel, or Charlie Chaplin look-alikes, or musicians of any and all sorts. Just open your mind and enjoy the atmosphere around you. More towards dinnertime, you can have a drink or eat dinner in any of the restaurants around the plaza or even in the tables set on the plaza itself. Some offer free tango shows while you sit at their place. Most importantly, make sure you have some authentic Argentine company with you, to learn about their history, traditions and politics during pleasant and intellectual conversations.