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Buenos Aires, like any big city, oscillates in terms of security between one extreme and the other. It is the authority of the government and the bodies that uphold the security of its citizens and their belonging to assure, plan, control and protect against offenses.
This authority, assumed by the national and city governments, is managed through official organizations under the scope of prevention of crime, accidents and any threats to the general peace of the citizens.
In the same way, this authority extends to the tourist sector providing tourists visiting our country with identical assistance as that offered for medical assistance. (*)
Nonetheless, the tourist must know which level of responsibility he/she must personally assume. The problems that arise from widespread delinquency, which are committed using methods that are more and more sophisticated and are constantly being reinvented, might still be addressed by means that used to be effective but have since become obsolete and haven’t yet been replaced.
It is advisable that one stay within well-lit areas, use secure methods of transportation, respect the norms of the general public, and keep one’s belongings in a safe place (do not leave purses or cell phones on the table at restaurants or bars). In sum, take basic cautionary actions that are also valid in you countries of origin.
(*) Where to Turn to for Help
In the instance that you’ve been mistreated, abused or discriminated against, contact the Tourist Defense, at the telephone number 4302 7816.
If you’d like to make the claim in person, go to Av. Pedro de Mendoza 1835 (Museo de Bellas Artes "Benito Quinquela Martín") in the La Boca neighborhood, Monday through Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM.
Email: turista@defensoria.org.ar
In the instance that you been victim of a crime, harassment or are having difficulties locating a missing person, as well as if you need assistance dealing with these matters at your embassy or consul, go to the Tourist Police Station situated at Av. Corrientes 436, Telephone: 0800 999 5000 / 4346 5748, email: turista@policiafederal.gov.ar (Interpreters of English, Italian, French, Portuguese, Ukrainian and Japanese.)
The Free Tourist Help Line also attends to claims (on top of those afore mentioned) of commercial abuse and breaching of a service contract. In such cases, they work in conjunction with the Tourist Police, Tourist Defense, and the Consumer Defense.
The help line is free and can be reached everyday from 9 AM to 8 PM. Assistance is available in Spanish, English, Portuguese, Italian and French.
Source: 365 Info Buenos Aires
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