The city's facades reflect other European aspirations as well. El Ateneo Grand Splendid (Avenida Santa Fe 1860, Barrio Recoleta) - often ranked among the world's most beautiful bookstores - was originally a theatre built in an eclectic European style. The landmark is a book lover's dream and its stage, which once hosted tango dancers, is now a red-curtained cafe.
I also have a glimpse of the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral (Calle Rivadavia s/n, 1004 CABA) - another piece of Europe in South America - where Pope Francis led mass when he was archbishop of the city from 1998 to 2013.
I love the 3rd Of February Park (between Libertador and Figueroa Alcorte Avenues), with its rose gardens and exotic South American plant kingdom. The park is a serene spot to encounter locals jogging or relaxing.
For a feel of Argentina's history of political uncertainty - after decades of military rule, it returned to democracy in 1983 - I stop at the Plaza de Mayo (Avenue Hipolito Yrigoyen s/n, 1087 CABA). The square commemorates the May Revolution of 1810, which led to independence from Spain in 1816.
It has been a nexus of Argentina's turbulent political life. Poignantly, wearing white headscarves, the mothers whose children disappeared during the years of military dictatorship under three strongmen (1976-1983) marched for their cause here.
ESTANCIA
After Antarctica, I have two summery nights at the Candelaria del Monte (candelariadelmonte.com.ar) estancia or ranch, on the pampas outside Buenos Aires. On this secluded property, at the end of a 2km driveway, artist-farmer Sebastian Goni keeps Angus and Hereford cattle, horses and bees. He has four pet llamas, which are gifts from a Russian partner.
His parents built the estancia for weekends and holidays 37 years ago. Filled with books and family heirlooms, the house is still a place to linger in. Its five retro rooms host guests from October to April, then the ranch is rented to hunters.
During my day-plus here, I ride, chat about all things Argentina with Mr Goni and enjoy the farm's produce. I play with a Jack Russell mix that follows me around.
On my horse ride, I spy the busy reddish-brown hornero, the national bird. The llamas and I wilt in the heat, but there is cool respite under the plane and ginkgo trees.
I relish the platters placed before me throughout my stay - empanada with sundown drinks; cannelloni for dinner; an artistic breakfast set of mini toasts with eight spreads including dulce de leche, chunky marmalade and honey from the ranch. Lunch, with an Argentinian family from the United States, features beef simply grilled with salt.
The estancia and Buenos Aires are countryside and city experiences that capture two faces of Argentina - and a pleasurable transition between wildest Antarctica and Singapore.
Five faraway escapes
1 SIBERIA, RUSSIA