Parque General San Martín
Built back in 1896, this pretty, 420-hectare park is named after the General that led the Argentine War of Independence. Stroll through the striking entry gates, past the fascinating sculptures that line the park’s pathways, before exploring the wonderfully fragrant Rose Garden, or stopping for a refreshment overlooking the shimmering lake. More than just green space in the city, the park is also home to tennis courts, a World Cup stadium, an equestrian centre, a golf course, numerous kids’ playgrounds, a striking amphitheatre, and even a university campus.
Argentinian Wine
Nestled in the eastern foothills of the Andes mountains, the Mendoza province of Argentina contributes to a staggering two-thirds of the country’s wine production, meaning that a glass of the good stuff is never far away! The famed Malbec grape grows here, producing an intense and utterly delicious red, whilst the area also produces Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Torrontes and Sauvignon Blanc. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the rolling, sun-dappled vineyards, tour the fascinating wineries, before tasting this glorious produce alongside some traditional Argentinian cuisine.
Basílica de San Francisco
Boasting a pretty pink and cream stucco design, the intriguing Basilica de San Francisco dates back to 1861, making it new-Mendoza’s oldest church. Home to a number of artefacts from Argentina’s history, included is the sacred image of the Virgin of Cuyo, patroness of the Army of the Andes, that miraculously survived the city’s devastating 1968 earthquake. Alongside this, the church houses General San Martin’s iconic baton of command, as well as the remains of his daughter, Mercedes Tomasa, and his granddaughter, María Mercedes.
Museums
With a rich and fascinating history, it may be unsurprising that Mendoza is bursting at the seams with some wonderful museums. Dedicated to the famed General San Martín, the leader of the liberation of Argentina, the aptly named Museo Histórico General San Martín honours the man held so dear to Mendoza, housing his uniforms, weapons and household items. Alternatively, the Museo Fundacional protects excavations from the city’s colonial town council, destroyed by an earthquake back in 1861. Alongside these remains, the museum showcases a series of dioramas of Mendoza as it has evolved, offering a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.
Nightlife
Oozing Argentinian flair and fire, Mendoza really comes to life when the sun sets. Whether you choose an evening of local wine and delicious tapas, exotic cocktails, live jazz, or hip-shaking until the early hours, Mendoza’s bustling plazas are lined with an array of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. For a true taste of Argentina, catch a breathtaking ‘Milonga’ performance, showcasing the country’s traditional tango, before feeling the rhythm yourself as you dance the night away.
Travelling With Children or Without an Adult
Children travelling without both parents should be aware that some countries require documentary evidence of parental responsibility before allowing lone parents to enter the country or, in some cases, before permitting the children to leave the country. Please contact the relevant Embassy for the county you are travelling to for further information.
Visa and Advance Passenger Information
All passengers must ensure they have a valid, acceptable passport, any required visa and any other documentation for both the final destination and any stop-off points en route. Please make sure that Advance Passenger Information is submitted in advance to travel for all destinations. Failure to hold correct documentation or submitting incorrect details with Advance Passenger Information or Visa applications may result in refusal of carriage or entry into a country. Please check with the relevant Embassy regarding visa requirements well in advance of your travel date. Charges may apply for some visas.
Passengers not travelling on a British Passport are advised to contact their relevant Foreign & Commonwealth office for individual Visa requirements.
For up-to-date resort information, visit www.fco.gov.uk
Health facilities, hygiene and disease risks vary worldwide and you should take health advice about your specific needs from your general practitioner or a specialist clinic as early as possible before travel. Those planning to become pregnant should discuss their travel plans with their healthcare provider to assess their risk of infection with Zika. For information about Zika, other mosquito-borne diseases (such as Dengue fever and Chikungunya), Lyme Disease (caused by tick bites), and to receive advice on mosquito bite avoidance measures, please visit Insect and tick bite avoidance.
In addition, we highly recommend that you seek specialist advice from your doctor and, where recommended, obtain vaccinations or tablets for protection against, for example: Malaria, Hepatitis A, Polio and Typhoid. In some cases, treatments for Malaria should begin well in advance of travel. Travellers may also be required to show Yellow Fever Certificates on arrival in certain destinations ie, some African countries. Please note that you are strongly advised against scuba-diving for 24 hours before travelling by air. We would also like to draw your attention to the risk of DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) and recommend that you consult with your doctor before travelling.
Visit the FCDO website and select your destination country for the very latest travel advice: Foreign Travel Advice. Additional sources of information include: Public Health England, The National Travel Health And Network Centre, Foreign And Commonwealth Office and your General Practitioner or a specialised clinic.