As a foreigner in Buenos Aires, how do you find someone with whom to tango? If you understand the process of identifying a dance partner in one of the city’s milongas, flying solo is the way to meet local milngueros, or people who frequent tango venues. However, if you haven’t a clue about the ritual, you can hire a partner through a tango taxi company, which “rents” dancers to foreigners looking to experience the dance without the difficulty of finding a partner on their own.

Confitería Ideal, a famous milonga in Buenos Aires (click to enlarge)

According to The Argentina Independent, the service originated in the 1920s and allows amateurs to “bypass the intimidating process of asking or being asked to dance, known as the cabeceo, or ‘head nod’. This gendered ritual dictates that a woman first stare at a man with whom she would like to dance, and if the man reciprocates the interest he will stare back and nod. The woman must nod back to confirm, and then the man approaches the woman’s table and waves. The woman stands up, approaches the man on the dance floor, and then they dance.”

How often do you look for a deep, cultural experience, but can’t seem to make the kind of connection a tango taxi company presumes to offer? I wonder how this service is interpreted by locals, and if the dancers facilitate a sense of culture, or if they silently dance with their clients. The business is very enterprising, nonetheless, which is indicative of the versatile, resourceful nature of Porteño culture. What stories can you share about life in Argentina? Could you imagine this type of service in other countries?

Sean

RW3 CultureWizard

+ Culturally and emotionally, Argentines often appear more European than Latin American. Most Argentines are of European descent, unlike other Latin American countries where European and indigenous cultures are more mixed.

+ While Argentines are more group-oriented than North Americans, they are less so than their South American neighbors. In fact, one of Argentina’s favorite symbols is the gaucho — the legendary plainsman who is an independent, brave, loyal and generous warrior.

+ Argentines believe in being open and direct, yet pride themselves on being tactful and diplomatic. Their communication may also be indirect, elaborate, and complimentary. Argentines are warm and effusive and do not hide their passion or sentimentality.

+ Argentines prefer not to disagree in public, so do not misinterpret situations where no one challenges your statements or opinions. Decisions are often based upon the personal preference of the decision maker, which is why spending time to develop trust and personal relationships is crucial.

+ Avoid high-pressure sales tactics, which are seen as confrontational.

+ Business attire is conservative, yet stylish. Argentines may judge people on their appearance, especially their shoes. Leather goods are extremely important among Argentines.

- from RW3′s CultureWizard® Country Profiles

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