My husband & I stayed at the Sofitel on Arroyo on vacation in early June '05. It was amazing from the moment the bellman opened the door to the wonderful art deco lobby on our first day, through the minute I walked out of the lobby on our last, embarrassed to look back at the staff who had been so wonderful because I had tears in my eyes to be leaving. Yes, it sounds very sappy. But the service was outstanding. None of the hotels we've stayed in here in the US or in Europe holds a candle. (And it's not just the expected difference in service between South America and the US--we also stayed at the much-touted Ritz in Santiago on the same trip, and were sorely disappointed.) After the Sofitel Buenos Aires, we've clearly been spoiled for life.

While you can find faultless service at other fine hotels, never have I seen the warmth and outgoing friendliness of the youthful Sofitel staff--from the bellman to the housekeepers to the concierge to the waiters. Not a hint of condescension from anyone--a welcome relief to us, as younger travelers who sometimes feel patronized or ignored at high end restaurants/ hotels. Yet at the same time, the staff was unceasingly professional, polite, and polished. Everyone who worked at the hotel also spoke flawless English. (As an aside- the concierge was dead-on with his recommendations. We should have listened to him more, and our guidebooks less!)

The location was perfect. The hotel is steps from Recoleta and a quick walk from great shopping and restaurants. Many other attractions are within walking distance, and everything else is an easy, inexpensive cab ride away. (Note to women...current fashion trends in Buenos Aires dictate wearing only flats- so leave your heels at home feel like a local, without the blisters!)

The room was beautiful and spotlessly clean, and it felt brand new. As in many big cities, it was on the small side, but very-well laid out. We didn't feel cramped at all. There were vases of fresh flowers in the bedroom and bathroom. In the afternoon, the bellman would bring a tray of nuts, along with fresh and dried fruit. In the evening, we would return to the room to find not a piece of chocolate with turn-down service, but an entire plate of decadent chocolates. There would also be a candle floating in a bowl of water and rose petals at the foot of the beautiful bath tub every night. Each morning, an English paper was waiting in the hall, and our rate included a wonderful continental breakfast of smoked salmon, assorted soft & hard cheeses, fresh fruit, and delicious pastries. All of this for about $160 a night... need I say more?

(ps- be careful, apparently there's a lesser hotel also run by the sofitel co. at puerto madeiro. Supposed to be nice, but not on the same level as the Arroyo location).