South American Explorer

As we all know, South America is not just ponchos, carnival and eating guinea pigs, there are some seriously cool shops, designers and artists too. So this month, we have decided to introduce you to some of the best boutiques in Buenos Aires for the style-conscious traveler! Enjoy!

What to Buy in Buenos Aires

Not just famous for sensual tango and world-class polo, Buenos Aires is fast gaining a reputation as an affordable and unique shopping destination. The next time you find yourself in the “Paris of the South”, swing by some of these trendy locations.

You’ll need to make an appointment to see the latest from designer Federico de Alzaga and Aracano his line of richly-coloured, heavy-set jewellery based on the native indigenous Mapuche designs. www.aracano.com

The luscious 1940’s inspired high-heeled shoes from Lola, found in the up-market suburb of Recoleta, can be custom-made for you – choose from busty heels to chic flats. www.lolanarsh.com

Etiqueta Negra– a clothing label that produces classic styles with a twist (think Cary Grant crossed with James Bond, and Jackie O mixed with Latin passion) – can be found in Alto Palermo. The store is so big that it has some of the owner’s collection of antique cars and motorcycles on display. www.etiquetanegra.us

The feminine creations of fashion designer, Cecilia Gadea, combine the romanticism of fairytales with 1930’s glamour. Gadea uses a mixture of textures as well as embroidery, laser cuts and pleats to outline the curves of the body. www.ceciliagadea.com

The chic design store, Tienda Malba, at the Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires, showcases some of the Argentina’s newest and most innovative designers. www.malba.org.ar

The private men’s boutique Balthazar is renowned for its tailor-made 100% cotton business shirts, silver cufflinks and thick knitted woolly jumpers. www.balthazarshop.com

For something a little more unusual and depending on the size of your suitcase, visit Arte Etnico Argentina who specialise in textiles and furniture made by the Quichua-Santiagueño people, from Santiago del Estero, a province in the north. www.arteetnicoargentino.com

GET INVOLVED!

Get off the couch and get out there with these not-to-be-missed opportunities!

2010 World Nomads Travel Documentary Scholarship: Ecuador

Kick start your documentary career by journeying to the Ecuadorian Amazon with noted documentary filmmaker and producer Trent O’Donnell. Go on assignment to film your experience and have your video broadcast on Nat Geo Adventure!

If you are chosen, you will take part in a special trip with Gap Adventures, exploring the spectacular Andean interior and Amazonian jungle. You will also experience a homestay with an indigenous Quichua community to gain insight into how sustainable tourism has impacted their community. Your mission will be to find and tell your own story.

For more information on how to enter, click here.  So, get filming and submit your application before August 1, 2010!

Guidebook writer needed

Get paid to travel! Right now, writers are needed for a V!VA Argentina travel guidebook in the Mendoza region and Lake District. There is approximately 8 weeks’ work with a deadline of mid-August. For more information, contact: paula@vivatravelguides.com.

While you are at it, check out V!VA’s Travel Writing Boot Camps!

Internships in Buenos Aires: Travel Writer and Events Coordinator

Want to beef up your CV, get some on-the-job training and live like a local in Buenos Aires? Now is your chance. South American Explorers is looking for two dedicated staff members to fill their Travel Writing and Events Planning internships. For more information click here.  http://www.idealist.org/if/i/en/av/VolunteerOpportunity/195893-7/c