Sophisticated. Glamorous. A rival to New York and Paris. All these are frequent descriptors of South America's hottest hotspot: Buenos Aires. Drawing visitors from all over the world, the capital of Argentina boasts centuries old architecture, an amazing nightlife and a spirit of friends, family and fun that are a way of life.

This home of the tango is not only famous for a passionate dance that has spread the world over, but also for some intriguing scenery, culture and excitement. Let's explore!

Casa Rosada (The Pink House)

Unlike any government building in the world, this pink house really is pink. Why? As a display of solidarity, the colors from opposing parties (red and white) were blended. The result was pink. With an appearance more like a castle than a government building, the Casa Rosada was built in 1580. Still today, Granaderos wearing colorful uniforms, secure the building much like guards at Buckingham Palace in London.

Plaza de Mayo (May Park)

The oldest park in the city, Plaza de Mayo is where people meet. In the center is Pirámide de Mayo, the first monument the city ever had. Always flooded on national holidays, Plaza de Mayo is the gathering place for fun as well as protests and shows of support for the government. Multiple movies have been filmed with this park as their backdrop including "Evita" staring Madonna.

Tortoni Coffee House

Who could imagine an ancient coffee house? But it's true! Built in 1858, Tortoni is the oldest literary coffee house in Argentina. Still to this day, tango and jazz bands play every night.

Cultural Mecca

But bars and bands is not the only entertainment in Buenos Aires by far. Quite the cultural Mecca, frequent concerts, theater performances, art galleries, plays and more can be found.

Nightlife

With an overflowing spirit for life, Portenos (citizens of Buenos Aires) are passionate people who love to party. You can join in the fun! Tango shows, bars and clubs bring out citizens and tourists alike every night of the week.

Guided Tours

Day tours through all the beautiful architecture, flea markets and exceptional shopping venues, give you the opportunity to see (and buy!) all things Buenos Aires. For night owls, night tours are available that will show you all the best places to dance till dawn. More of a sports nut than a dancing queen? Guided soccer tours give you an up close and personal look at the nation's favorite pastime.

Weather

Because Buenos Aires is located in the southern hemisphere, their seasons are reverse from western countries. Winter is from June to August, summer from December to February, spring from September to November, and autumn during March, April and May.

Mild temps all year deliver highs of 86F in summer and 59F in winter meaning there's no need for heavy coats or other gear.

With an upcoming bicentennial in 2010, now is the perfect time to visit. Buildings and monuments are being revitalized and the city is in preparation for the soon-coming onslaught of visitors. You can beat the crowds to this ever-popular destination when you book a cruise to Buenos Aires now for your next vacation.

Roy Witman is Vice-President of Cruise Vacation Center at http://www.cruisevacationcenter.com offering the best deals including those on Norwegian Cruise Lines. © 2008, All Rights Reserved