Make sure that passport is valid for at least six months after your last planned date abroad. U.S. passport holders can enter Argentina and Uruguay as tourists without a visa for the Puentes programs. If you are entering Argentina or Uruguay on a passport from a country other than the U.S., please review the possible visa requirements for Argentina or for Uruguay. The Puentes team is available to support you with visa process inquiries, but it is ultimately your responsibility to secure a visa for the program if you are required to do so.

Put your passport in your carry on bag - not in your checked bag.

Bring a debit card, a credit card, and U.S. dollars in US$100 bills (smaller denominations are often not accepted in change houses). Do not exchange to pesos before you travel abroad, as you will likely receive an unfavorable rate. There is a big cash culture, especially in Argentina, and you will get more bang for your buck by exchanging USD to pesos in-country.

Also notify your credit and debit card banks about the dates during which you will be out of the country so that you will not be flagged for fraudulent activities. Also ask your bank to waive the ATM withdrawal fee as an exception during the time that you are abroad; some banks will do this and others will not, but it is always worth it to ask. 

If you plan to use Western Union to transfer yourself funds to pick up from a Western Union location abroad in pesos, create the Western Union account while physically located in the U.S. before you travel abroad.

Pack plenty of warm layers, rain gear, and a winter coat. May to July is winter in Argentina and Uruguay. Temperatures will range between 42 and 65 °F in the city. Buildings typically rely on radiators and space heaters, so bring sweaters for indoor wear too.

Typically professional attire is more informal here, but check with your internship supervisors about attire expectations for your specific internship workplace.

It is a requirement to have a functioning cell phone (with both a calling plan and data plan) for the entire duration of your program. Set up one of the following two cell phone options for your local communication:

(1) Set up an international cell phone plan with your cell provider. Contact your cell phone provider to check cell service rates for your destination abroad, and then change your current cell phone plan to one that allows for temporary international service.

(2) Unlock your cell phone and use a local SIM card that you can purchase in-country at most "kioscos." Contact your cell phone provider before your departure and request that your phone be unlocked.

If you have an extra cell phone already on hand, you may want to bring it with you in case something happens to your phone while in country so that you have a ready, easy replacement.

You must bring your own laptop to your internship. Also of note is that electronics are very expensive here, so it’s best to bring any cords, plugs, and accessories that you need for electronics.

Argentine and Uruguay electricity is 220 V, 50 Hz, which is different than the 110V in many countries. When using a computer, generally there is a voltage converter on the plug that protects your computer, but with bigger electronics like hairdryers and hair straighteners, you might need a 220 to 110 volt transformer.

Argentina and Uruguay use a mix of European and Australian plugs: either a plug with two circular prongs or one with two flat blades in a V shape with or without a third blade below. The most common plug in Argentina is two flat blades in a V shape. The most common plug in Uruguay is the plug with three points. You can either bring adaptors or buy them upon arrival in any ferretería (hardware store).

Do not bring open-top tote bags to transport your laptop, but instead opt for a zippered bag or backpack for daily outings. You’ll find most people carry their belongings in a fanny pack or crossbody purse, rather than their pockets, when out in public.

Bring more than enough of any prescription mediation for your entire stay abroad. Medicine cannot be sent via postal mail from your home country, and you cannot use an international prescription at a pharmacy abroad; if you need prescription medication filled while abroad, you must see a local doctor.

If you prefer certain types or brands of toiletries, pack them in your suitcase. If you use tampons with applicators, those are hard to find here, since the applicator-free model is the one widely used.

If you plan to join a gym, you will need an “apto físico.” This can be a simple, signed note (in English or Spanish) from a doctor stating that you are in good health and able to undertake physical exercise in a gym.

While not expected or mandatory, host families often appreciate small gifts. Something from your hometown, an item related to a hobby you like, or something meaningful to you. Sentimental consideration is more important than economic value.

No need to pack towels or sheets; your Puentes housing provides them.

We also recommend that you do not bring any expensive or irreplaceable jewelry or personal items so that you do not have to fret about them while adventuring.