This past weekend, I had a wonderful getaway at the Roble Estancia Inside the Pampas. The owners Jaime and Totty made us feel right at home with one of the best asados I’ve had in Argentina, fresh baked cakes and bread, horseback riding and walks throughout the land and an absolutely breathtaking sunset. This was no tourist attraction, this was my friends and I at a real-working ranch out in the middle of nature, yet only an hour and half away from Buenos Aires. The only sounds we heard were cows mooing, firewood crackling, horse hooves trotting, parakeets chirping and our own intimate conversations. Its just what I needed to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.  I highly recommend a trip out to Estancia El Roble!

In April, BAlocal took a NYTimes journalist on tour to discover an up-and-coming neighborhood, untouched by tourists yet is the talk of the locals.  That neighborhood would be Barracas - bordering San Telmo and La Boca, its packed with tons of history and is going through an enormous gentrification process.  We scouted out historical sights, new chic restaurants, B&Bs, shows, old factories turned into lofts and a huge bohemian art scene painted all over the streets and hard-to-find galleries.   Unfortunately, the editor cut out anything about BAlocal guiding the tour so I thought I’d mention the article.  Here you go, June 7, 2009 - In Buenos Aires, A New Revival:

Here’s BAlocal client infront of one a Barracas home-turned-atelier.
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BAlocal Personal Shopper Tours are a big hit in Buenos Aires. For BAlocal I handpick the shops for you as you just shop away. I also suggested Dorothy stay at MiraVidaSoho, a very brand new boutique hotel nestled in Palermo Soho (the chic boutique area), so she would get special attention and really enjoy the experience of first class service in an intimate setting.

Here’s what Dorothy Brentari from Cupertino, CA said:

“Hi Christina,I had a WONDERFUL time in BA..  I hope I can make the trip down sometime again soon. I loved staying at James’ place, the chef there is exceptional- and I enjoyed the wine tasting too!  I’ve attached a few of the tango photos… for your enjoyment. The suede pants fit great.. as does the brown leather jacket with the additional length in the sleeves…Can’t wait to use my new red purse! d”

A very spacious, beautiful newly renovated 2-bedroom apartment located in the heart of Palermo.  Sleeps up to 4 people.  Hardwood floors, all new furniture and antiques.  Includes weekly maid service, fresh linens and towels, AC, internet, cable tv and expenses.  Two large bedrooms, a kitchen fully stocked with modern appliances, dining room, living room and full bathroom.

I set this LA couple in a beautiful apartment in the heart of Palermo Soho, the chic new neighborhood of BA. For only $350 dollars for the week they saved cash for Mrs. Hoffman’s shopping spree, where they would have spent at least $130/night in a hotel. Lo and behold Mr. Hoffman found himself shopping everyday with his savings. While they were here, Mr. Hoffman featured me and my company in his radio story on budget traveling. Check it out: