I read that any number of pay as you go plans can be purchased upon arriving in Buenos Aires. Are some better for me. I want access to internet and emaail as well as a calling plan. Also, is it better to buy a SIM card before arriving or can they be picked up easily in the city. Thx!

Hello Margaret and Welcome to Slow Travel Talk.

We do have a few members who have traveled to Argentina and they may be able to answer your question. I did a little bit of researching on the web to see if I could find some information for you. I found a little bit.

Here are the three main carriers. I also found this thread discussing Argentina SIMs on Flyer Talk. We also have a page on our main website Slow Travel with general information on cell phones and some providers if you want to purchase in advance - Cell phones in Europe. The article is focused on using cellphones in Europe but it does include some general information.

Unfortunately, I couldn't find any information specific to receiving email and web access. Also, one potential advantage of having the card before arriving is there may be a delay activating your number if you purchase it in BA. The Flyer Talk thread mentioned that there were delays in the past but no one confirmed if there are still delays. The thread has been going on for a couple of years so some of the information is a little out of date.

I'm unable to shed any light on the question of cell phone coverage/availability, as we did not take a phone to South America with us this spring. However, I can offer an option - "locutorios" are ubiquitous throughout Buenos Aires; they provide inexpensive internet use, and also have phones that can be used for outgoing calls.

I am hoping others with experience with cell phone use will respond.

Judy