We rarely repeat exceptional experiences because we’ve found the second go-round seldom matches the original memory. So why are we back in Buenos Aires after a fabulous visit eight years ago?

Well, for several reasons. North American winters don’t suit us, and the summer weather here in the southern hemisphere is glorious.

Second, Argentina is presently a perfect destination for budget travelers like us since the exchange rate of U.S. dollars for pesos is so strong. How strong? The country is basically having a 50 percent off sale. We’ve had wonderful steak dinners with wine for $20 or less total. It’s incredible.

Speaking of money, on our previous stay we didn’t get to explore places outside of the city because we’d arrived at the end of a month-long journey around the tip of South America and had maxed out our budget.

So this time, there was one particular excursion some of our friends did on that trip that topped our to-do list.

Iguazú...

San Telmo, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Buenos Aires, is home to many antique shops, art galleries, and tango shows.

Its sometimes-less-than-pristine buildings, cobblestone streets and street art exude a gritty, bohemian vibe.

During weekdays shoppers and residents bring a quiet hum of activity. On Saturday the action picks up. Every Sunday is a massive party stretching for blocks as the streets fill with vendors, performers, and tourists.

And we do love a good party, so off we went to check it out.

When we arrived late morning the festivities were already in full swing.

Colorful crafts of all sorts beckoned. Yerba mate (mate is a caffeinated drink adored in Argentina and nearby Uruguay) cups, handmade change purses, and guitars. Plus some, um, “interesting” masks.

And of course, tango. Nothing says Argentina like tango, right? Well, maybe delicious steak and Malbec, but that’s another blog…

The hub...