Mar
del Plata - A destination for everyone by Mike Greaves
White sandy beaches with sea
lions lazily sunning their backs as the Atlantic frantically washes ashore…
that's the image many travelers carry home with them after visiting Mar
del Plata.
Not surprisingly, tourism
remains the mainstay of this seventh largest Argentinean city. Other industries
of widespread interest are fishing, textile manufacturing and packaging.
And, lest we forget: sports.
Known for its nomadic history,
the place resisted European infiltration right up to the late 19th century.
The city was founded by an entrepreneur by the name of Patricio Peralta
Ramos in February 1874.
 There
are several ways in which you can get to Mar del Plata. Flying in from
Buenos Aires takes barely 90 minutes with several planes flying in during
the day. The journey via road could be more interesting, though, with the
long stretches of the pampas' flatland and greenery providing an eye balm.
Once inside the city it is not too difficult to get around; you can take
a walk about or get by on cabs which are pretty affordable. Luxury resorts
abound in this gem-like city, although a clutch of them come recommended
over the others.
Good accommodation is available
in all genres but if you want to live it up in style we suggest you try
the one and only five star hotel in all of South America, the Hotel Costa
Galana with its awesome architecture and sophisticated European décor
and furnishings. The luxury hotel has a jaw-dropping view of the Atlantic
Ocean and houses two prominent restaurants.
You can of course, eat in
at any one of them but for breakfast we strongly recommend one of the restaurants
by the sea, restaurants like La Martini which has a deck. Munching spaghetti
balls or gnocchi dipped in cheese or white sauce with fresh orange juice
while feeling the breeze rush through your hair is an experience you will
never forget.
 There's
plenty to do in the city. You can go shopping, for instance, at the Diagonal
Puerrydon for exotic Argentinean handcraft including tango figurines, trinkets,
and candle-holders. For day-to-day or electronics' shopping you could visit
the shopping mall at Los Gallegos.
We might as well mention
that the city is also famous for its sophisticated range of electronics'
goods among other things. But if you find the shopping activity too mundane
why not go down to the sea and try some recreational angling? For those
who might be unaware, Argentina offers some of the world's best fishing
spots.
And if you are a keen golfer
you should check into any one the five vast and scenic golf courses that
will allow you to indulge in your favorite sport if you are willing pay,
that is.
As evening approaches you
might want to throw caution to the winds in this big bold city and while
away your time - and money - at yet another of its attractions- Casino
Central Mar del Plata with its close 140 game tables and 565 slots. The
maddening swirl of the city with its epicenter of calm can leave you quite
breathless!
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