Russian How I Paid 60% Less for My Hotel Stay in Argentina
Over the past year, I’ve driven more than 40,000 kilometers across Argentina and Latin America - staying in everything from tiny rooms in remote mountain villages to luxury boutique hotels. Prices in Argentina can be wildly inconsistent. On one trip, I paid 60% less than the first price I was quoted. Here’s how to do the same.
Hack #1 - Compare All Booking Channels
Prices vary between Booking.com, the hotel’s official site, WhatsApp, and the front desk. Often, WhatsApp gives the best deal — but not always. Check them all.
Hack #2 - Ask About Cash Discounts or Local Bank Transfers
Always ask if there’s a discount for paying cash. Tiene discuento para effectivo? Pro tip: immediately follow up by asking if you can pay by bank transfer. In most cases, they’ll give you the cash discount but let you save your precious bills - which are hard to withdraw in rural areas.
Hack #3 - Use Your Foreigner Status to Avoid the 20% IVA Tax
Juggle your passports. Argentine citizens pay a 20% IVA tax. Foreigners using foreign cards can often skip it - but hotels don’t always ask or clarify. Always ask: is this price with or without tax?
Hack #4 - Locals Sometimes Get Better Rates - Use That Too
In some places, locals pay less than foreigners just because… they do. Again - ask.
All You Need Is Five Minutes of Friendly Spanish
That’s it - just a few minutes of polite Spanish conversation and you’re saving big.
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