San Telmo in Buenos Aires is one of the city's most atmospheric neighborhoods, full of cobblestone streets, colonial buildings, and a strong sense of history. It has a slightly gritty, authentic feel that contrasts nicely with more polished areas like Palermo. read more

Walk down the cobblestone roads created from stones used as ballast on ships that sailed to the New World to reach San Telmo. San Telmo is the oldest barrio (neighborhood) of Buenos Aires, Argentina. It is filled with charming cafes, antique stalls and bakeries. Love the colonial buildings that lead to the central Mercado or marketplace. Some of the first homes and elaborate mansions were built in this neighborhood. These homes were quite luxurious with access to gas mains, lighting, sewers, and running water. This led to a growing and thriving community. Unfortunately, this early era ended abruptly when the yellow fever epidemic struck the area in 1871. Although the establishment of new clinics helped slow the spread of the epidemic, it claimed over 10,000 lives. Yellow fever caused many prominent families to abandon their homes with all contents left behind. Hundreds of properties became vacant. Some of the larger homes and land were converted into parks. Many of the abandoned treasures are now sold at antique shops in the area or the Mercado. Many of the homes became conventillos (tenement housing) for European immigrants. Explore the Mercado for delicious foods or a fun souvenir. The stalls are full of so many antiques like rotary telephones, China sets, silver platters, old coins and political posters. Love the old Coca-Cola signs. Although we had a limited time to explore, it was so nice to have a short visit and learn the history of this neighborhood with Patrice from Argentina Elite Transfers and Tours. NB: If you visit on the Buenos Aires Bus, which we also did, be careful as the old cobblestone streets are narrow. Beware of the branches of the trees as you pass through on the open windows of the bus or you may get hit with a tree branch. read more

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Shops, cafés, antiques and interesting people watching. We got out of the hot sun, but without air-conditioning it was pretty hot. Lots of chocolates, pastries, and candy here. read more

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