As expected in a large, gay-friendly metropolis, Buenos Aires has a
vibrant nightlife scene, although many bars and clubs are only popular
on certain nights of the week. It's best to ask around to learn which
are likely to be busy (or even open) on a given evening - also keep in
mind that most places don't get going until 2 or 3 in the morning
(although they often remain busy until dawn). The majority of B.A.'s
"gay" nightlife options draw a mix not only of women and men but, in
many cases, gays and straights - this is a city where folks from all
walks of life seem to revel quite happily together.
Some of the larger dance clubs include the aptly named GLAM in Barrio
Norte, long-running Contramano in Recoleta, and see-and-be-seen Alsina
in the Monserrat district. More intimate yet still highly popular bars
and lounges worth checking out are Kim y Novak, a cozy and stylish
Palermo Viejo hangout that also serves good food; Sitges, which is also
in Palermo Viejo and presents lively drag shows; and Bach Bar, a mostly
lesbian spot in Barrio Norte. Buenos Aires also has a few bathhouses,
the most popular being Buenos Aires A Full, in Barrio Norte.
Prices of accommodations in Buenos Aires vary wildly, as the large and
often very impressive international hotels, which appeal to business
travelers and well-heeled tourists, tend to charge rates comparable to
those in other major world capitals. Among the city's best high-end
hotels, the relatively new Park Hyatt, which opened in 2006, is an
absolute treasure, its rooms sleekly and artfully designed, and its
restaurants, courtyard patio, wine-and-cheese bar, and spa all
top-notch. The Hyatt's well-trained, thoughtful staff whisks about,
tending to guests' every need. In the same neighborhood of Recoleta, the
classic Alvear Palace Hotel has been serving discerning travelers since
it opened in 1932 - the elegant rooms are among the largest in the city.
In Palermo Viejo, Bo Bo is a smart boutique hotel with moderately
priced, avant-garde rooms and an excellent restaurant popular with
models and celebs. The intimate FIVE hotel contains - despite its name -
16 rooms, each done with handsome, contemporary furnishings, but the big
draw here are the extensive common areas, including a lovely rooftop
sundeck with great city views and a hot tub. Charming owner Adriana
Teplixke and her knowledgeable staff can recommend great places to shop
and eat, and rates here are quite reasonable, beginning around $100
nightly.
If you're on a budget, consider Palermo Viejo's absolutely wonderful,
gay-owned Bayres B&B, where it feels like staying with kind (and
knowledgeable) friends in their simple but pleasant home. Rates (which
run from $35 to $65 per night) include full breakfast, and there's free
high-speed Internet and cable TV in every room, and private or shared
bathrooms. Considering that Bayres costs hundreds less per night less
than some of the city's fanciest hotels, it's truly an amazing bargain.
And with the money you save on rooms, you can invest in such heady
pleasures as haute couture and cuisine - if you're a serious shopper,
bring along an empty suitcase to fill with your bounty.
Andrew Collins is the
author of Fodor's Gay Guide to the USA and as well as numerous other
guidebooks.
The Hunk
