Argentina

Language: Spanish is the official language. English, Italian and French are also spoken depending on the geographical location and social status.
 
Government: Republican, representative and federal , organized in three branches: Legislative, Judicial and Executive.  Argentina is organized in 23 provinces and a federal district: the city of Buenos Aires.

Population: 36,2 millions of inhabitants according to the 2001 Census. 95% are of white race, mainly Spanish and Italian descendants. The rest are: 4.5% mestizosa, the result of the union between white Europeans and native aborigines, and 0,5% pure indigenous population.

Money: Peso Argentino. There are Notes of 2, 5, 10, 50 and 100 pesos, and coins of 1 peso, 5, 10, 25 and 50 cents. ATM's are widely available in the cities. Visa and Mastercard are the most accepted credit cards, but not all vendors provide credit card facilities. Cash is an ideal option and it is recommended to carry in smaller demoninations and change large notes at the bank.  US dollars is the preferred foreing currency for  money changing.

Time Zone: Argentina is GMT 3 hours behind.

Weather: Due to the vast extension of the country, the climate conditions vary from minus 0ºC during winter in Southern Patagonia to over 30ºC in the Pampas and Northern Regions in summer. Argentina can be enjoyed year round depending as the weather is mild through all four seasons.

Visa: Australian and New Zealand Passport holders do not require a visa for leisure travel to Argentina up to 90 days.

Health: It is recommended you keep all standard vaccinations up to date and seek your own medical advice as soon as you know you are travelling in order to allow enough time for any necessary vaccinations.

Religion: Catholic, although there is freedom for all cults and religions such as Judaism, Protestantism and Islamism, among others.