Mendoza, Argentina

• Mendoza is at the base of the Andes at about 2,400 feet - you can see snow-capped peaks from downtown when it's clear. Everything here revolves around wine. Lunch goes until 3 or 4 PM, dinner starts at 9 or 10 PM, and sitting alone at a restaurant with a book and a glass of Malbec is normal, especially at vineyard restaurants.
• The downtown area has tree-lined streets and squares that feel calm during the day. Not many people speak English compared to Buenos Aires, so learn a few Spanish phrases. Tourist Police at 261-413-2133 can help and some speak English.
• Phone theft is the main issue - keep your phone in your bag when you're walking around, only take it out inside. The central areas around Plaza Independencia are well-lit and safe until late, but don't go to Parque San Martín after dark.
• Buses work fine during the day using the SUBE card, but Uber or taxis are easier and safer at night. Aristides Villanueva street is where nightlife happens on weekends - stays busy until midnight with police around.

Spanish. Some English at Tourist Police (261-413-2133), hotels, and tourist spots. Emergency services (101 or 911) might have English operators. Learn basic Spanish phrases.

• People greet with a kiss on the right cheek - women to women, men to women, even strangers. Everything runs late. Arriving 20-30 minutes after the stated time is normal for social events. Dinner starts around 9-10 PM.
• People dress smart casual and care about appearance. Don't wear anything too flashy. Tank tops and shorts are fine in wine country but you'll get looks in traditional neighborhoods.
• If someone offers you mate (tea passed around in a gourd), take it and pass it back. Only say 'gracias' when you're done and don't want more - saying it earlier means you're refusing. Add 10% tip at restaurants.
• Almost no English outside hotels and upscale restaurants. Learn at least 'hola', 'gracias', 'por favor', and 'disculpe'. Pedestrians don't have right of way - cars won't stop for you.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Emergency services: 911. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• Public transport has buses (colectivos) and the Metrotranvía tram. Get a SUBE card - costs ARS 600-800 ($0.60-0.80) per bus ride and ARS 400-600 for tram. Load it up when you arrive.
• Uber, Cabify, and Didi all work and are usually cheaper than taxis. Yellow-and-black taxis are metered, start at ARS 2,000 ($2). Uber from the airport runs ARS 8,000-12,000 ($8-12).
• Downtown is walkable with wide sidewalks and tree shade. Google Maps shows real-time bus and tram info. Don't bike between wineries alone - join a guided tour or hire a guide.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Mendoza with local guides and curated experiences.