STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

My bf used to live there as a teenager so I could ask him any questions you have. Since May is the beginning of fall/winter in South America, I think it would be a little cool. Best bet would be to bring layers.

I've been to BA many times. There's much to do and see there. Check out the weather just before you go, as it is quite unpredictable. BA is very humid, and it rains A LOT during all seasons. In fall it can be steamy warm one day, and cold, humid and misty the next.

You will definitely need good walking shoes. Public transportation is excellent, and taxis are relatively cheap. The subway system is great, although old. They've cleaned it up a lot. There are two main walking streets, Florida and LaValle. Florida is the main shopping street, now very touristy, and there are a couple of gallerias that are fun to look at. Santa Fe is the more upscale shopping street, and there is even more upscale shopping near Recoleta and in the Palermo area.

The sidewalks are tile or pavers that are often uneven and broken, thus the need for good shoes. When you get away from the main traffic areas, the side streets are still cobblestone and uneven. Great to walk on. If it rains, you can step on a loose sidewalk tile and get what we used to call an Argentine Foot Bath.

We were last in BA in January, '04. We were warned about the high crime. We feel pretty comfortable there so weren't too worried. There were more beggars there than I have ever seen before, and often parents use their children to beg. What bothered me the most is that they will come up and touch you. Perhaps it won't be so bad in May because the kids should be back in school.

Despite the warnings, I saw many women from tour groups--apparently off the cruise ships--wearing lots of sparkly jewelry, big diamond rings etc. I leave all my jewelry home in the safe deposit box when I go to SA. Including my diamond wedding ring.

I can give you suggestions of places to go and shop if you would let me know your interests. I love BA--it's a diverse, fascinating, dynamic place.

Do you know where you will be staying? My favorite place is the Claridge Hotel, on Tucuman just off Florida. It's an old place, a bit beat up, but they are renovating it. I've also stayed at the Mariott Plaza--it's seen much better days. There are lots of new hotels in the upscale areas.