Buenos Aires Feature

Buenos Aires is blessed with a wide array of hotel options, most of which are remarkably affordable compared with those of other international capitals. But if you are looking to save even more money, or if you just want the creature comforts of a real home, consider renting an apartment during your stay.

The options for renting in Buenos Aires run the gamut from cheap, simple, and sparsely decorated apartments to enormous, modern, and luxurious flats.

The city is a mishmash of architectural styles, so it's not unusual to see a 150-year-old home next to a gleaming 25-story apartment complex that was finished on Tuesday. As a result, some amenities or services are available in some properties but not in others. Make sure you ask in advance whether the price includes utilities, telephone, and Internet fees.

Agencies

There are many apartment rental agencies in the city, and all of them have Web sites where you can view photos, see a list of each apartment's amenities, and make a reservation. Many of these agencies also provide concierge service, and will help you arrange an airport pickup.

We recommend the following apartment rental agencies: www.oasisba.com; www.apartmentsba.com; www.bytargentina.com; www.whatsupbuenosaires.com/tourism; www.alojargentina.com; www.buenosaireshabitat.com; www.waytobaway.com.

Location, Location

Deciding which neighborhood to rent in should be determined by the types of activities you plan to indulge in during your stay in Buenos Aires.

In Centro there are fewer options because much of the downtown area is a commercial district that houses offices and government buildings. However, many one- and two-bedroom apartments around Plaza San Martín in Retiro are good options if you want to be close to downtown.

In San Telmo and La Boca the past is the present. With a few exceptions, most apartments in this area are two- or three-story homes that lack modern conveniences. If you're a tango junkie and looking to soak in the flavor of BA's yesteryears, then this is the barrio for you.

In Recoleta the options are varied. This is likely the most expensive neighborhood to rent in, because of its good location, security, and upper-crust residents.

In Palermo fancy new apartment towers abound, matched with private homes and lofts that have been rehabbed in undyingly cool ways. Because Palermo is the city's largest barrio and home to the best restaurants and shopping, it is ideal for visitors who want to try to steer clear of tourist traps downtown.

Belgrano and Las Cañitas offer much the same choices as Palermo, but at cheaper rates. Many stately homes dot this area, and some are available for short- and long-term rentals.