I left BA a few months ago in a chain of events that saw me be ripped off by my landlord, by the taxi driver that carried me to the airport, by the government with their 20% travel surcharge on tickets and luggage fees, by the airline with luggage fees, by SENASA, by the central bank who refused to exchange my pesos for dollars at any rate at the airport. In the airport, for the first time, a policeman invited me to give him a bribe in order to allow me to bring my dog for which I already had written permission. Fees here, bribes there, argentines everywhere.
I had sold off and given away my things for peanuts to make my escape as lightweight, quick and painless as possible. The best plans of mice and men are beset on all sides by Cristina's minions.
Remember the movie "Escape from New York"? Like that except Argentines are less polite...
Sooooo...why do I miss so many things about BA? It's like being in an abusive relationship with beautiful partner suffering from an unmedicated bipolar disorder. When it's good, it's great...otherwise, hide the knives.
All in all, I've found that people are far more genuine, kinder and prices are definitely more reasonable in the real world. Life is a far more pleasant away from the money controls, constant strikes and currupt politicians and union leaders that frankly, should be shot. Buenos Aires, nice for a visit. Wouldn't want to live and work there.
Helpful advice with those with pets:
P.S. It could've been worse I suppose...Argie custom agents wanted $3200-3600 USD (not including pick up or travel kennel) to transport my pooch to Montreal (one way!). Everyone said it was mandatory to use them...what a scam. If anyone needs to carry your dog, get a doctor or shrink to give you an "emotional support animal" letter. Pooch/cat flies free at your feet on the plane.
