Budgeting

Budgeting

Think Blue

THE VALUE OF YOUR DOLLAR

Currently, there are two major and separate exchange rates in Argentina. One is called “dólar oficial” and the other “dólar blue”. The blue dollar rate is more convenient for tourist, but the difference is not considerable if you plan to exchage small amounts.

While considered a black market type of exchange, you will find the blue dollar rate everywhere. For example, Western Union offers the blue dollar rate openly. No need to find any sketchy place to access it.

In general, everyone will encourage you to pay in USD dollars. It can be pricey for Argentines to get access to foreign currency. Know that you can pay in dollars for large purchases like tango shoes, but also they are obliged to accept your pesos.

Paying with a Card

Using your Cards

You can still use your credit card to pay and your debit card to withdraw pesos from an ATM if you wish to do so. Personally, I tend to use my credit card for larger purchases like at restaurants with friends. 

• ATMs - are available, look for one of the three symbols pictured here.

• Debit Cards - your debit card will work in an ATM if it has the symbol in the picture.

  • Withdraw $9000 or $19,000 so you get smaller bills.

  • You can use your debit card to make withdrawals, but not payments.

• Credit Cards: plan to bring 2 different cards - Visa or MasterCard are the most common. Note: Most businesses will put a 10% charge on the bill for using a credit card.

Paying with a Card

CARD VERSUS CASH

Always carry some cash with you (ideally pesos). You will need them to pay for a taxi or get a coffee on the go. In most places, you can pay with a credit card, but sometimes you will be told that their system is broken. Keep in mind that if you use any kind of electronic payment in Argentina your bank will use the official rate for the transaction. Basically, you will be paying more.

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BE AWARE OF THE DIFFENENT EXCHANGE RATES ⚠️

Argentina regularly changes the exchange rate that tourists receive when they use their credit cards. As of today (December 10, 2024), you would lose 2% from the official exchange rate when you pay with your credit card.

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The Most Convenient Way

EXCHANGING MONEY

La Maleva offers an informal exchange service. You can give them the US dollar bills and they can bring you back pesos. Keep in mind that you get a better rate for larger bills and that La Maleva may take one or two days to complete the operation.

 

KEEP IN MIND 🚩

• La Maleva will not exchange on weekends.

• You may want to exchange a small amount at the airport. You will need cash for your first meal and breakfast.

• If you exchange at the airport, you will get the official rate.

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CHECK DAILY RATE HERE​

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Paying with a Card

Tips are Always Appreciated

Argentines are not use to tipping, maybe because the quality of the attention and service varies, or hopefully because wages in the service industry are better. Either way, you will not be expected to leave a considerable tip.

However, I always do. I think it is a very nice gesture. You can use the chart below as guidance.​​​​

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Eating Out

Here are some estimates to give you an idea of the cost of food.

• Steak and side at a fancy restaurant: 13 USD

• Pasta at a fancy restaurant: 10 USD

• Buffet at a decent restaurant: 5 USD

• Fast Food Combo: 2 USD

• Latte coffee: 1.5 USD