She's French, and she fell so deeply in love with Argentina that she tattoed the country (Malvinas included) in her arm

Alexandra Limplaire didn’t know anything about the country when she first arrived by chance in 2017. Amazed by the landscapes, culture, and people’s warmth, she has become a product manager in an agency that organises tours to Argentina.

After living in Argentina for eight months and travelling all over the country in 2017, Alexandra wanted something more than just carrying Argentina in her heart and memory. She wanted a tangible souvenir, something material that she could proudly show. She wanted an indelible mark in her left arm, something with which she could explain her love for the country. Every time she was asked, “Why did you get an Argentina tattoo?” she had the chance to say, “Because I love it.”

Alexandra was born in Brittany. She studied tourism in France and Switzerland and worked in hospitality. Today, she’s a product manager in Tierra Latina, an agency specialised in community-based tourism that would send 700 French tourists to Argentina before the pandemic. She’s planning on moving to Argentina for good in November. “I’ve been meaning to come back for more than a year and a half. And now I can work remotely.

When did you first arrive in Argentina?

Four years ago. I went there with a Work&Holiday Visa, and I fell in love with the country. I worked as a waitress for eight months in Hyatt. Then, I travelled around Patagonia, Salta, Iguazú, and Ushuaia. As soon as I got back to France, I decided I wanted to sell Argentina to French people. I found Tierra Latina, and I started working with them.

Did you know anything about Argentina before coming? 

Nothing at all. I first saw a picture of Mendoza. I thought it was amazing and wanted to go. I talked with a friend who went to Switzerland on an exchange, and we decided to travel and work at the same time. It was then when I found a great visa to travel to Argentina.

What captivated you the most about Argentina?

I find it hard living in big cities. Yet, I thought Buenos Aires was unique because it has neighbourhoods very different from each other. I loved Palermo since it’s richly varied. I visited many places in Argentina. I also love its gastronomy and the wine.

What’s your favourite place?

Apart from Brittany, my hometown, my favourite place is Ushuaia. I think the brightness there is amazing. Nature, fauna, and its people as well. The first time I prepared an asado in Argentina was in Ushuaia, and it was snowing heavily.

If you had to describe Argentinians in a few words… 

They are very friendly. It’s easy to talk to people in the street. They love French, so it becomes effortless talking with people and having a bottle of wine with someone you don’t know.

Do you have a favourite place in Buenos Aires?

Feria de Mataderos because it’s not tourist-packed. Not many people get there. I love walking around Palermo Soho streets and eating in Don Julio. Even if I have to wait three weeks to book a table, that’s my favourite restaurant. I love the atmosphere, and the meat is amazing.

What would you recommend to French people for their first trip to Argentina?

I’d advise them to stay longer in Buenos Aires. To capture the country’s vibes, you need at least three or four days. It’s a city that deserves enough time. Then, I’d suggest going to Ushuaia, of course. Navigate along the Beagle Channel, walk around the National Park Tierra del Fuego, and eat spider crab in Puerto Almanza. I’d then go to Calafate and watch the Perito Moreno glacier. I’d stay at a gaucho ranch. Last but not least, I’d go to the north of the country. There are amazing landscapes there, completely different from what we see in Europe. Get to know the indigenous communities. It’s so exciting to meet these people and learn about their world views, and share opinions. Oh! I almost forgot. I’d definitely go to the Iguazú Falls.

Tell us about your tattoo.

When I was about to leave Argentina, I wanted to take something with and on me. So, I decided to get a tattoo. I forgot the Malvinas the first time, so when I got back a year later, I contacted the tattoo artist and asked him to add them. He told me they were very small and difficult, but he did them anyway. I remember I was once travelling by bus, and a woman told me, “Malvinas are missing!” Now, I dream of going to the Islands.