Bariloche: The Swiss Alps of South America

• HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
• GoodbyeChau
  [chow]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón
  [pair-dohn]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [bee-ehn. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glays]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver el menú, por favor
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah vehr ehl meh-noo, poor fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseQuisiera pagar, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah pah-gar, poor fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pair-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goos-tah-ree-ah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEs demasiado caro
  [ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-har ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Las diez y media
  [lahs dee-ehs ee meh-dee-ah]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dee-ehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-see-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ...)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

Before the arrival of European explorers, the region of Bariloche was inhabited by indigenous peoples, primarily the Mapuche. These communities were skilled in the arts of hunting, fishing, and weaving, and they left behind a legacy of rich traditions and deep connections to the land.

In the mid-16th century, Spanish explorers began to venture into the region. The first recorded European to set foot near the area was Nahuel Huapi Lake in 1670, guided by Jesuit priest Nicolás Mascardi. The Jesuits established missions to convert and educate the indigenous population.

San Carlos de Bariloche was officially founded on May 3, 1902. The city's name combines 'San Carlos,' a tribute to early settler Carlos Wiederhold, and 'Bariloche,' derived from the Mapuche word 'Vuriloche,' meaning 'people from behind the mountain.'

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bariloche saw an influx of European immigrants, particularly from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. These settlers brought their architectural styles, culinary traditions, and cultural practices, which still influence the city today.

In the 1930s, the Argentine government began promoting Bariloche as a tourist destination. The construction of the Nahuel Huapi National Park in 1934 and the establishment of the Llao Llao Hotel in 1938 played significant roles in turning Bariloche into a premier travel destination.

During and after World War II, Bariloche became a haven for some German nationals. The city's alpine architecture and European flair led to speculation and rumors about the presence of Nazi fugitives, although concrete evidence remains elusive.

Today, Bariloche is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, outdoor recreational activities, and vibrant cultural scene. It serves as a gateway to the Andes and attracts visitors from around the world for skiing, hiking, and enjoying its famous chocolate shops and breweries.

Bariloche is located in the Argentine Patagonia, in the province of Río Negro. The most convenient way to get there is by flying into San Carlos de Bariloche Airport (BRC), which has regular flights from Buenos Aires and other major Argentine cities. Alternatively, you can take long-distance buses from Buenos Aires, Mendoza, or other regional cities, which offer a more scenic but longer journey. Driving is also an option if you prefer a road trip, but be prepared for long distances and variable road conditions.

Once in Bariloche, you can get around using various modes of transportation. Local buses are a cost-effective way to travel within the city and to nearby attractions. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. Renting a car is a popular option for those who want to explore the surrounding national parks and lakes at their own pace. Bicycles can be rented for a more eco-friendly and immersive way to see the sights.

The official currency in Argentina is the Argentine Peso (ARS). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Bariloche. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and for tipping. ATMs are available throughout the city, but be aware that they may have withdrawal limits and fees. Currency exchange services can be found at the airport, banks, and some hotels.

Bariloche is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other tourist spot, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid carrying large sums of cash and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places like bus terminals and markets. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always good practice to stay vigilant and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Bariloche has medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, that can handle most emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Be sure to carry your identification and insurance information with you at all times.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly. Avoid wearing overly flashy jewelry or expensive accessories. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do have small change ready for bus fares. Don’t be loud or disruptive on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' or 'Buen día'. A handshake is common for formal introductions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like asado and chocolate. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Bariloche like a local, visit the local markets and artisanal chocolate shops. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss the chance to take a boat tour on Lake Nahuel Huapi or hike in the nearby national parks. For a unique experience, try the 'Circuito Chico' scenic drive, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.