FAQ-Argentina

Application information:

When should I apply for the volunteer/internship programs in Argentina ?

Global Crossroad has recently started running internships and volunteer programs in Argentina . We are able to offer placements as per your convenience year round. Because of increasing volume of applications, participants are requested to apply at least two months in advance , but if you want to expedite your application within less than two months of time, please contact our office for more information.

What happens once I submit my documents and application to Global Crossroad?

Once Global Crossroad receives your application, we carefully review and forward it to our Argentina in-c ountry NGO partner finalize a specific placement as per your qualifications and request. Once we receive information regarding acceptance, placement information will then be sent to you immediately .

How long does it take to process my application?

The application process normally takes 2-3 weeks, but sometimes it can take longer. However, we also can expedite your application if you have time constraints, but you must contact us before submitting your application.

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

Except application no documents are needed to apply for the program. Participants will submit their application online or download the Argentina application form and send it to Global Crossroad's offices in the USA either by post, fax or online.

Are there any requirements which need to be met to participate in the volunteer/internship program in Argentina ?

The only qualifications are:

•  Have an intermediate knowledge of Spanish to be able to interact with others in Argentina . However, our in-country NGO partner can arrange intensive language classes for those who need them. Please contact global crossroad if you want to take Spanish language

•  Skills required are courage for their living abroad experience and openness to all the new people and experiences they will encounter.

Visa Information

General Visa information

Argentina does not require a Visa for citizens from the USA , Canada or the UK . If you stay for longer than 3 months, you will have to extend your tourist Visa for another 3 months at the Córdoba Inmigration office by paying a US$ 30 tax. If you are unsure if you need a Visa, please visit www.projectvisa.com for a complete and-up-to date list of Visa requirements for Argentina .

A valid passport is required to enter Argentina . Argentina does not allow entrance if the holder's passport expires in less than six months; returning home with an expired passport is illegal, and may result in a fine as well.

It is a suggested that you have a photo-copy of your passport containing your photo, passport number, along-with your international travel insurance, air-tickets, and traveler's checks' serial numbers to prevent any lost of important information.

GC suggests all volunteers to get visa in home country to avoid unnecessary hassles in the airport

Project Information

Who manages the volunteer/internship projects in Argentina ?

Global Crossroad's in-country coordinator is responsible for finding out about appropriate volunteer/intern projects as per the qualifications and skills of the applicant.

What are the daily schedules of Project?

Project schedules vary for each project in Argentina . Most projects are from Monday to Friday for 4-6 hours a day. Most volunteers have the weekends off to sight-see or explore Argentina on their own.

Where are the projects located?

Global Crossroad sends volunteers in Argentina to areas around Córdoba.

Córdoba

Córdoba, nicknamed the “Heartland of Argentina”, is a city located near the geographical center of Argentina, in the foothills of the Sierras Chicas mountains on the Suquía River, about 700 km west-northwest from Buenos Aires. It is the capital of Córdoba Province and has a population of over 1,300,000 inhabitants, making it Argentina 's second-largest city. It is a major industrial center, but retains many of its historical buildings dating from the colonial era.

Córdoba was founded in 1573 by Jerónimo Luis de Cabrera, who named it after Córdoba , Spain . It was one the first Spanish colonial capitals of the region that is now Argentina . The Universidad Nacional de Córdoba is the oldest university in South America , founded in 1613 by the Jesuit Order. Córdoba has many historical monuments preserved from the times of Spanish colonialism, especially buildings of the Roman Catholic Church. The most recognizable is perhaps the Jesuit Block (Spanish: Manzana Jesuítica), declared in 2000 as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. In the colonial period, prior to the rise of Buenos Aires , Cordoba was the center of arts and learning, a place of scholars and priests, churches and universities

It is a typical university city ; it is a safe and modern city with vibrant youth culture, second in stature only to Buenos Aires , although with a much lower cost of living. Blessed in location at the base of breath-taking Sierras, Cordoba is also one of the major tourist destinations for Argentines. Around 3 million tourists from the rest of Argentina and other countries visit Córdoba every year

Since the city is in an altitude of around 400 meters above sea level, Córdoba has a sunny and semi-tropical weather, with hot, wet summers and mild, dry winters. Average annual rainfall is about 870 mm (35 inches) but is highly variable. Temperatures at low elevations are high, rainging from 33 °C (92 °F) in summer to 0 °C (32 °F) in winter.

When are the projects open?

Literally, the projects are open year-round and volunteers are encouraged to apply anytime at their convenience.

How long can I volunteer in Argentina ?

We normally suggest volunteer to work 2-12 weeks. But You can volunteer in Argentina with Global Crossroad for up to 52 weeks.

Arrival and Departure Information

Who will arrange my flight to Argentina ?

You will have to manage your flight on your own. Global Crossroad can help you arrange a ticket if you like. If you would like us to set up a ticket for you to Argentina , please contact our offices and we will work with you to set up your airfare.

Which airport should I book my flight into?

All volunteers must arrive at the Córdoba International Airport, Argentina. Global Crossroad and its staff will not be able to pick you up from a different location. Please take into account that most international airlines arrive at Ezeiza International Airport in Buenos Aires . From there, you must transfer to Aeroparque Jorge Newbery airport (35 km from the Ezeiza Airport ), where the flights to Córdoba depart from. However, there are some international airlines that arrive directly to Córdoba via Santiago de Chile, thus avoiding the pass through Buenos Aires .

When should I arrive in Argentina ?

Volunteers should arrive in Argentina the day before their projects begin, which is usually on a Sunday. If you come in earlier to Argentina , you will need to arrange a place to stay and coordinate with our in-country NGO partner to be picked up from a different location.

Will someone pick me from the airport? If so, how do I know about the person?

You will be picked up once your travel itinerary is sent to our Argentina in-country NGO partner and to us at Global Crossroad before your arrival in Argentina . You will be picked up by a staff member or our in- country coordinator who will furnish a sign with your name written on it. In case no one is there, you can call our in-country coordinator, who can help with the picking-up or arrange the accommodations immediately. You will be supplied with all contact information in-case of the rare instance that you are not picked up .

What should I do if my flight is delayed?

•  Try to call our Argentina in-country Coordinator from the airport and inform him/her of the possibly-delayed arrival time; our Argentina in-country coordinator will check the status of your flight before your arrival time to ensure your pick up.

•  Check your placement instructions pertaining to details of hotels that have been recommended for late arrival if your flight is to arrive after midnight;

•  Call/email our Argentina in-country Coordinator once you arrive in Argentina so that he can help with a pick-up accordingly.

How can I get to the hotel from the airport? If I did not see GC representative in the airport?

In case your arrival time is changed and thus you have to stay overnight in the hotel (or if you failed to meet GC staffs in airport), please call a taxi at the airport and do remember to ask for a receipt from the driver. Make sure that you call the in-country coordinator before boarding the taxi. Please call our Argentina in-country Coordinator the next day and let him know your whereabouts, if possible.

What do I need prior to departure from my home country?

•  Please make sure that you pack all your necessary documents (Passport, clothes, documents)

•  Prepare financially, in advance, to cover various expenses up to $ 50 USD/week for extra expenses and travel to your project each day.

•  Get your mind and spirit ready for the duration you have committed as the cultural shock might be so strong that you may even want to quit the next week after arrival.  

If I want to arrive earlier than when program begins , where do I stay and who will organize the accommodations?

In most cases, you will have to cover all expenses incurred by earlier arrival, but our Argentina in-country Coordinator can help with booking hotel rooms and even domestic traveling at a good price.

When should I depart from Argentina ?

We ask participants to depart from Argentina on the Sunday after their project is completed.

Which airport will I fly out of?

All volunteers will depart from Córdoba International Airport .

Who will drop me off at the airport?

GC does not drop volunteer in the airport. So, you will need to arrange a taxi or bus ride to the airport after your project is finished. This is an easy process and our in-country coordinator in Argentina or your host family will be more than happy to assist you with this. Please discuss this issue with our coordinator.

Can I store my luggage if I arrive earlier than my program starts?

Yes, and the fee charged by the airport storage sector is calculated by the hour. So, do not leave your luggage too long with them.

Food and board information

Who will arrange my accommodations and w hat are they?

Your accommodations will be arranged by our in-country NGO partner in Argentina . You will stay with a host family in Argentina . We attempt to place all of our volunteers with a host family by themselves, but in some cases, due to project location, you may have other volunteers at the same host family. If you want to travel with a friend, we can arrange for both of you to stay at the same host family if you like.

Host families in Argentina have electricity as well as hot and cold running water.

Are singles rooms available?

Yes, in most cases you will have your own room unless you request to stay with another volunteer. In some cases you will share a room with another volunteer.

If I arrive with my friend, or girlfriend/boyfriend, can we stay together?

Yes, but you need to inform our Argentina in-country Coordinator of this so that he can help prepare accommodations.

Will there be other foreign volunteers/interns at my placement?

This depends on the exact placement and your preference in this issue.

What are the bathroom facilities?

Most bathrooms will have a Western style toilet rather than a squat style. A shower with hot & cold water is usually installed in the bathroom. In most cases, volunteers share bathroom with host family.

What are the laundry arrangements?

Laundry will be done by your host family.

Can I use appliances if I bring them from my home country?

Yes. Please note that Argentina uses 220/230V

Electrical plug details

What are the local cuisines?

Argentina has an imported cuisine rather than an original one. Most Argentine cooking had origins elsewhere, with Spain and Italy being the most dominant influences. There are also a lot of South American food, which originated in the Andean Highlands of Bolivia , Peru and Paraguay

Argentina is famous for its steaks and other grilled meats. Its parrilla stems from the Incan barbacoa. The Incas roasted their meat on green branches placed above hot rocks or coals. Argentine beef is lower in fat and cholesterol and has a special flavor since its cattle walk around and feed naturally on the range .

While certain foods can be found in all corners of the country (barbecued meat; milanesas; empanadas; dulce de leche, yerba mate in addition to all sorts of Italian and Spanish dishes) there are some regional distinctions on culinary trends. Besides, there exist two other comparisons which are important in understanding Argentine cuisine: The first distinguishes a cuisine that is essentially urban and cosmopolitan (highly influenced by the "globalization" of fast food and eating patterns) from a more traditional, idiosyncratic rural cuisine. The second comparison is made on the basis of socioeconomic differences .

Can you supply special diets?

We can provide both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, but if you require a special diet, you are responsible for your meals. You must let us know upon applying if you require a vegetarian or special diet.

Is the running tap water safe for drink?

Tap water is safe to drink In all places in Córdoba (as well as in most places in Argentina )..

Are there hot and cold water facilities available?

Yes, all of host families with Global Crossroad provide basic facilities.

Will bottle water be provided?

No, if you want bottled water you are responsible for obtaining this yourself.

Health and safety

What are the principle health risks?

Basically, every country in the world has potential health concerns and Argentina is no exception. Even though in the areas where the projects take place there are no major health risks, it is common sense to be aware of some health concerns when you travel to Argentina . In the following, you will find some of the major health risks for your Argentina trip. Do be careful!

AIDS: Exists in Argentina and every country in the world. The things to avoid are well known. The blood supply is not as safe as at home.

Malaria: Only in some rural areas in the northern provinces bordering Bolivia and Paraguay .

Dengue: (Chagas disease ): is carried by insects and also occur in some rural areas in the northern provinces . Protecting yourself against insect bites (see below) will help to prevent both Malaria and Dengue .

Numerous others exist, but not in abnormally high or epidemic proportions.

What health precautions should I be aware of and tend to?

Even though medical facilities are generally of a high standard in main Argentine cities and towns and no vaccinations are required to enter the country, we recommend to consult your doctor or a travel health specialist before your trip to Argentina . :

Do I need health insurance?

Global Crossroad takes out comprehensive medical insurance for its volunteers. W estern and traditional Argentinan medicines are widely available in most urban areas in Argentina . So, your health insurance is crucial. It is suggested that you pay up-front costs and then file an insurance claim to get reimbursed back home after medical expenses such as doctor's visits, medicines, etc. For some larger expenses, the insurance company may be able to arrange direct payment to the hospital or medical provider, but this is rare. 

Who do I contact in case of health emergency?

East or west, home is the best. There is no place better than home when you are ill. But if you do get ill, don't panic. You can obtain information on or contact medical assistance through a number of channels:

•  Our in-country Coordinator;

•  Your local family;

•  Your country's embassy in Argentina . It is always wise to have your embassy number in your purse or wallet, and contact details can be obtained above.

Is the food safe if I buy it from a street vendor?

No.

How safe is Argentina ?

Compared to many other countries, Argentina is a pretty safe country for personal security. But, petty crime has increased in recent years, especially in and around the major cities. However, serious crime against foreigners is relatively rare. Petty crimes, such as pick-pocketing and purse-snatching, occur somewhat frequently (especially in crowded areas such as stations, markets, shopping areas, sight-seeing destinations, etc.). Additionally, there are frequent instances of false taxicabs in which passengers have been robbed. So, it is wise to be cautious with your personal possessions in public places. Following are some precautions to avoid potential problems:

•  Do not show off your wallet or valuable goods in public

•  Keep enough money for your immediate needs in your pocket, and hide the rest on your body or leave your backup supply in a safety deposit box at your hotel

•  Always keep valuables in a safety deposit box at your hotel instead of leaving them in your room

•  Remove any jewelry that may draw a thief's attention before you go out for strolling

•  Never wear a bag or purse on your street-side shoulder in order to avoid becoming a target of the "snatch-and-ride"

•  Never carry your passport/visa, credit cards, traveler's schedules or other travel documents in your shoulder bag.

•  Ensure that you aware of the values of different local banknotes to avoid being deceived

•  Be particularly cautious about your possessions in crowded areas such as local festivals, markets, tourist sites, railways, bus stations, or on trains and buses.

•  Always let your hotel or guides know where you are on your free days during your tour.

•  Respect the customs of the local ethnic groups.

•  Do not quarrel with anyone during your trip.

•  Any disputes should be reported to your local guides for resolution.

•  Avoid traveling in any areas or sites that are not open to foreigners.

•  Do not voice publicly any opinions contrary to Argentina 's laws and code of ethics and morals.

What are the sanitary conditions in Argentina ?

•  Be prepared and n ever expect a clean public toilet 100% of the time. Carry some tissue in-case you need to use the public toilet.

•  Argentinan toilets generally do not do well when flushing large amounts of items or feminine hygiene products (i.e. tampons) so do not flush them. Rather, throw them away in the trash .

•  In some areas/restaurants, toilet systems are old and have very narrow plumbing and get blocked easily. In these cases a small basket is usually placed beside the toilet (for your used toilet paper).

•  Use hotel lobby toilets; these are everywhere and are always clean. Still, they may not always have toilet paper. It depends on the class of hotel that you are using.

What Vaccination do we need?

We suggest volunteers to follow DCD travel advise or consult travel doctor

http://www.cdc.gov/travel/temsam.htm

Money

Are ATMs easily available? If yes, which debit and credit card are accepted?

Credit cards such as Master, Visa, American Express and Diners Club are accepted almost everywhere in main cities. You also can withdraw cash from most international banks and credit cards from ATM machines, but $2-4 USD surcharges apply for each transaction.

What is the local currency and h ow do I know the exchange rate?

Name: Peso Argentino

Money exchanges by cash or traveler's checks can be made at various branches of the most banks of Argentina . Current exchange rates can be found using our currency converter.

Where do I exchange my money and how much?

You can cash your paper notes at the various branches of banks and exchange agencies , hotels and tourist stores , airport bank offices, etc. T raveler's checks can be cashed in exchange agencies.Therefore, we recommend the exchange of small bills at all times.

How much money should I bring with me?

Argentina in general is very convenient for foreigners due to the favorable currency exchange rate. Córdoba, with a lower cost of living as compared to Buenos Aires , is exceptionally attractive for youths with narrow purses, since they can accomplish longer stays. Following are some sample prices in US$, so that you can appreciate the cost of living in Córdoba.

1 ltr gasoline: US$ 0,70,
1 ltr mineral water 0.45 ,
1 liter of milk 0,56.
1 kilo of bread: 0,97,
1 small coffee in a Café: 0,87,
1 Pizza in a Pizzeria 2,43,
1 liter of beer in bar: 1,57,
Ticket to a Cinema 2,09,
Public Bus trip in the city (suburban): 0,33,
Taxi travel approx. 4 km: 1,74,
Bus 700 km (e.g. Córdoba - Buenos Aires ) return trip US$ 40

It is suggested that you bring US$100 and cash it into Pesos after arrival at the Argentinan airport. The money will be sufficient to cover the first 2-3 weeks for petty expenses and travel to your project.

Is it safe to carry cash with me?

Carrying cash is not safe, therefore, don't carry a large surplus of cash with you.

Important Reminder: Retain your receipts whenever you exchange any currency or traveler's checks to Pesos. You may be asked to show proof of the exchange.

Communication

How do I make contact with Global Crossroad's local coordinator?

Our Argentina in-country NGO partner in Fundacion Ideas and our Coordinator is Mr. Hugo Almirón, who is the executive director or Fundacion Ideas. He lives in Córdoba. We will provide you with his detailed information upon your placement details as well as your pre-departure informational packet. Fundación Ideas, will provide volunteers a day orientation - training session prior to your going to the project. Also, it will provide all the necessary assistance, coordination and supervision.

How do I contact my family after I arrive in to Argentina ?

International Direct Dialing within Argentina is available in most cities. Phone cards are widely available and calls can be made from the many “telecentros” found in urban areas, hotels and phone booths on the streets. In hotels, local calls are generally charged at a nominal fee. The Argentinan mobile phone networks are very advanced so if your cell phone does not work in Argentina , you can adapt it for local use by changing its chip for around US$ 5. Internet cafes are available in most towns. You can use any type of communication to call back home.

Are internet services easily available?

Yes, in most urban areas. Internet cafes are available in Córdoba, although the cafes can be very noisy as they are a popular venue for the youth to play online games and for students to do work.

How can my family members contact me?

Once you settle down at the host family you will want to use your calling card to contact your family if you have not already done so when you arrived in Argentina at the airport.

Can I bring my telephone from my home country ?

Yes, but it if it does work in Argentina , your local communications will be very expensive. For this reason, we recommend that at your arrival you change your cell phone chip and number to a local one (for around US$ 5) or directly buy a new one for around US$ 35 (which includes US$ 15 for local calls and messages). Our local NGO partner staff will help you.

Culture and religion

Is there a special dress code that I should follow while staying in Argentina ?

Volunteers should dress conservatively when at their projects. Jeans and a t-shirt are acceptable. No high shorts and tank tops please.

Should I care about any religious conduct?

Argentina respects different cultural backgrounds, religious beliefs, and moral concepts. You may practice on your own accord.

How do I respect Argentinan people?

Be more inclusive and show respect of other cultures. Argentinan culture is rich in customs and traditions. The Argentinan people enjoy sharing their customs and traditions with foreigners so feel free to take part with them. You may even be asked to join your host family at their local church for services, this is up to you and you do not have to attend the services if you do not wish.

Additional Information

Climate

What is weather like in Córdoba, Argentina ?

Average Rainfall

Average Daily Temperature

Official Argentinean Holidays

Jan 1 2006: New Year's Day.
Mar/Apr*: Good Friday / Holy week.
Apr 2*: Veterans Day
May 1: Labour Day.
May 25: Revolution Day (First Patriot Government).
Jun 20*: National flag day.
Jul 9: Independence Day.
Aug 17*: San Martin' Day.
Oct 12*: America´s discovery day.
Dec 8: Virgin's day
Dec 25: Christmas Day.
(*) Mobile days (to closer Monday)

What about tipping in Argentina ?

Although tipping is not obligatory, a 10% tip is expected at restaurants and bars. Taxi drivers very rarely get tipped and never expect to be.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ) are generic information please do not use FAQ as a sole travel guide (as it may not be correct). Travel information and situations abroad change constantly so please consult global crossroad or travel advisors to verify this information.

Materials to Bring?

• Camera
•  Sleeping bag
•  Some books of Argentina
•  Map of Argentina
•  Toiletries
•  Electricity adapter/converter
•  Sunglasses
•  Walking shoes (for work and travel)
•  Towel