We had the pleasure of spending a week at Palermo Viejo B & B. It was a fantastic spot. For us it proved to be the perfect base to explore BA from and Ariel (the owner) the perfect host.

Palermo Viejo B & B is located in the heart of the Palermo district and there are literally hundreds of bars, cafes and restaurants within easy walking distance. These range from the ultra trendy to superbly local. If it is shopping you are after - you will also not be disappointed - there is everything from designer clothing or homeware store to local markets in easy walking distance.

Our room was very nice. It was very modern and tastefully decorated. It was well appointed with modern air con and satellite TV. There were nice small touches, like special scrubs and toiletries on arrival. Despite its central location, the rooms are quiet and private. There is a shared courtyard garden, where you can enjoy a glass of wine (and if you are lucky some fresh bread or local cheese courtesy of your host!). In addition there is a lounge which is left open - where you can use the internet or relax on the couch while listening to a CD.

The breakfasts were very nice - a mix of fresh fruit, croissants, coffee, fresh homemade bread, cheese, ham and other spreads. To top this off is the sublime freshly squeezed OJ! We miss it!

Last - but definitely not least was Ariel. He is a well travelled Argentinean who speaks a number of languages, including fluent English. His expert local knowledge meant that we felt we got the most out of our week in BA. He took an interest in making sure we enjoyed our time and experienced the true BA.

With Ariel's help we could easily plan each day - from recommendations for out of the way local restaurants to ensure we experienced the real La Boca, to which local bus to take to get to well known tourist spots. If its tango you want, he could help you with anything from booking a glitzy tourist tango show to giving you directions to a small local bar 2 minutes walk away where locals go and tango in traditional style. You could not ask for more in a host than Ariel (and his assistant Patricia) offered.

Our stay here was a highlight of our 3 & 1/2 months in South America - and we would have no hesitation in recommending it as a great place to stay in BA. We'll be back!