Being an expat can be fun and exciting. New sights. New smells. New customs and traditions and maybe even a new language to learn. But the fun can grow exponentially if you're making friends at the same time, so here are some tips for building your social circle as an expat in Buenos Aires.
Most expats in Buenos Aires say one of the main ways they met each other was online. Just a few of the links often mentioned include:
Getting connected online gives you all the information you may want about events, which even include startup meetups and American holiday events like July 4, Halloween and Thanksgiving.
Social events in Buenos Aires
The Argentine expat groups tend to be more active than other nationalities in South America. No one is sure why, but one theory often put forth is the lack of Spanish language skills among ‘newcomers.' But relax, by the time you have been here a month, you will be able to say, “Mi esposa es muy dulce,” with the best of them.
One fine way to meet expats in town is by attending “expat events.” This is often connected to online groups, such as BAExpats, which are the main drivers of local groups. The BAExpats.org forum also has room for wallflowers who just want to organise a coffee or lunch with only a few people.
A popular storytelling event held each month is “Second Story.”
If nightclubs are your forte, but not drinking, check out Gringo, an English-speaking comedy club. Most of the acts focus on the foibles of being an Expat in Argentina. Gringo is awesome for those who don't drink. For those who do, ‘Drinking Liberally Buenos Aires' is open every Monday at 7:30 pm.
The largest, regular event for expats is BAIN (Buenos Aires International Newcomers). Their website lists the different events in town — and not just those sponsored by BAIN. The events include playgroups, book exchanges, dinners happy hours for the ladies, lunch and lots of other offerings.
Like chilli? Try your hand at the Annual Buenos Aires Chili Cookoff
Activities, clubs and courses in Buenos Aires
Another great, but often overlooked, way to meet other expats are the many activities and clubs available.
Those into soccer, aka ‘futbol,' can watch, or join at your own risk, BAFA (Buenos Aires Futbol Amigos).
Baseball fans and players can get their thrills by watching or joining the “Shankees” baseball team.
There are several running groups available, but as they rise and fall at irregular rates. The first place to research running groups is Google by typing “running groups in Buenos Aires.”
Language classes and exchanges are also excellent to meet expats with similar interests.
Socialising at the workplace in Buenos Aires
Don't forget the workplace. Because of the, relatively, limited job openings for English-speakers, it isn't uncommon to meet other expats at work.
Americans, as well as British and Europeans, often work for the same employer.
The only limit is your creativity mixed with your desire to get out of the four walls, explore the barrio and introduce yourself to nuevo amigos and amigas.
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