· Given the uncertainty in Argentine economy it would be wise to take US dollars with you. Regardless of the current economic crisis in Argentina, withdrawing money from banks is a rather long-winded, bureaucratic process. Our advice would be to take mainly US dollars cash, and a credit card. If you can keep your purchases down to a minimum (buying food and souvenirs) and by paying for any travel arrangements, tours and flights in the UK then you will have fewer currency problems. Call LATA (0208 715 2913, www.lata.org) for a list of members which arrange tours to Argentina.
Edward Paine
Chairman of the Latin American Travel Association

· The 'corralito' which restricts how much money one can take outeach week only applies to accounts based in Argentina, so people with foreign accounts can withdraw up to their usual limit - that is, if there is enough cash in themachine, and if it is working. It's always a good idea to take dollars anyway, sterling can also be changed in the capital. Argentina has suddenly become very affordable - on a par, or cheaper than, other South American countries, and the desperate situation many now face means increased tourism would be very welcome there indeed. The price of flights has also dropped by nearly a third.
Fionn Petch

· You should take American dollars and American dollar travellers cheques, sufficient for your whole trip if possible. You won't be able to get any pesos in this country. Once there, you can change dollars into pesos at the Exchange at the airport, or in hotels (not the best rate but still OK). There are Exchanges in the city, but don't use the Cambio men who hang around street corners. We were advised not to use cash machines in case of losing the card. I never tried a bank because the queues were very off-putting, and of course the banks have been a focus for civil unrest. Large shops and restaurants will take a credit card, and ask for your passport as ID, and will always take dollars.

However you do need pesos for taxis and smaller shops. Keep an eye open for forged peso notes, and be aware that there are other notes being used as legal tender (such as patacones) which some shops will take but are best avoided as they are not interchangeable with pesos. I imagine that things are more difficult in the country areas, but Buenos Aires is manageable.

And you will get some amazing bargains: when I was there for the first time three weeks ago, it was 5 pesos to the pound and by now the peso may have slipped even further. So the biggest and best fillet steak you have ever tasted costs £1; a box for a concert at one of the world's great theatres, the Teatro Colon, costs £3; a leather jacket of the finest quality only £50.

More importantly, you will experience a fascinating country full of warm hearted, interesting people, now sadly going through extremely difficult times. Enjoy yourself: I can't wait to return there some day.
Elizabeth Whittome