"How did it strike you on arrival? When people say that Buenos Aires is the Paris of South America, surely the hotel that comes to mind is the Alvear. Old-school luxury takes on new meaning since the refurbishing and renovations that took place here in 2016. New to the hotel are modern suites in the top two floors, and on the rooftop, a generous spa, a pool, and a bar with jaw-dropping views of the neighborhood. Nice. What’s the crowd like? This iconic hotel has hosted presidents, Hollywood celebs, emperors, and rock stars since it first opened in 1932. The good stuff: Tell us about your room. Decorated in shades of ecru and latte, the carpeted rooms are light-filled and soothing, with beds wrapped in crisp linens, and surrounded in Louis XV period furniture. Hermes products, plush robes, and fluffy towels await in the spacious bathrooms. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that find its way into your suitcase? Splurge for one of the recently renovated rooms on the 10th and 11th floor, which are just as elegant but decidedly more modern. They also grant access to an exclusive lounge. The food: Worth it? Non-traditional cuts of steaks are the order of the day at Alvear Grill, while L'Orangerie y el Jardin d'Hiver serves a breakfast buffet that's a real treat, and afternoon tea with white-gloved waiters. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you. The breakfast buffet is perhaps the best in the city. And Afternoon Tea at L'Orangerie is everything you might imagine high tea to be: white-gloved service, delicate dishes and trays filled with scones, and perfect little sandwiches, tantalizing pastries, and tea served in gilded cups. Bottom line: worth it, and why? There's a price to pay if you want a hotel fit for a king or queen. The recent renovations definitely make it worth it." - Celeste Moure
