Study in Argentina: Language & Culture

The official language of Argentina is Spanish. However, there are multiple minority languages, including, interestingly, Welsh. This reflects the diversity of Argentina, with first nation tribes and peoples living happily alongside the descendants of European settlers. 

English is becoming increasingly widely spoken across the country, particularly in Buenos Aires. As is the case across much of South America, younger people are more likely to speak English than older people. 

As Argentina was a Spanish colony until 1853, Spanish and Mediterranean cultures have had a huge impact on Argentine society. If you have been to Spain, you will already be familiar with later dinner times, magnificent wines and colorful national costumes. This was well and truly carried over to Argentina. Over time, it changed and molded to become something uniquely Argentine. It can be quite difficult to pin down exactly. The best way to come to understand Argentine culture is to experience it for yourself. 

As exotic and enticing as Argentina might be, there are some things to bear in mind. 

Firstly, the Argentinian economy can be unstable. The country is prone to defaulting on its debts - and this massively impacts the Peso. It can mean that, overnight, the cost of basic goods skyrockets. Even when this happens, the cost of living in Argentina is still significantly lower than in major US and many European cities. 

Unlike other Latin American countries, like Brazil or Venezuela, Argentina does not have to grapple with a high crime rate. But, as is the case the world over, there is still petty crime, like pickpocketing. As you would in London, Chicago or New York, keep an eye on your surroundings and your valuables close to you. If you do this, then Buenos Aires is perfectly safe.