Argentina

The land of gauchos and tango, home to rainforests, glaciers, and penguins, to the beat of candombe or the murga and surrounded by beautiful beaches. Discover the country’s sophisticated and lively cities, first-rate museums, music, theatre and magnificent café scene.

Teenagers in Argentina have active social lives: getting together at friends’ houses or in the central town square, going out to eat, see a movie, dance or just hanging out in the local café. Most students participate in sports teams (soccer is very popular) or go to the gym in the afternoon. Many teenagers also study a second language at a language school. To get around teenagers generally walk, bike or, when in major cities, take public buses.

Parents and children tend to have an open relationship in which they discuss their opinions and plans, and the parents usually have the final say. Don’t miss out on the family dinners and the opportunity to improve your Spanish while chatting about the events of the day.

You will most likely be placed in a public school where classes run from Monday through Friday either in the morning (8 am to 1 pm) or in the afternoon (1 pm to 6 pm). The school year starts in March and runs through December. There are usually around 35 students in each class and you will probably wear a uniform.

Spanish is the official language of Argentina, and many people also speak English, Italian, German, French or Portuguese. Having a basic knowledge of Spanish will be an asset, although you don’t have to know or speak it to participate in the program. You will be encouraged to participate in language lessons, and AFS local volunteers may help arrange independent language study for you during the first months.

Beef is the staple of the cuisine, and it can be found in dishes like parillada (featuring different cuts of beef) or milanesas (breaded fried cutlet), the chivito and empanadas that also reveal the strong influence of Italian cooking styles. Unlike other Latin American cuisine, food is not spicy in this country. Argentines are also known for their love of drinking mate, the local green tea, which is often a social occasion.

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Life in Argentina: A Firsthand Experience by an AFS Alumni

Discover what it’s really like to spend a year in Argentina through the eyes of one of our AFS alumni Oliver. From cultural immersion to personal growth, read about his unforgettable journey and the life-changing moments he experienced.