I love the La Boca neighborhood. It is the oldest area in the city and is where the Tango is said to have made its debut. Despite the fact that it's a tourist trap, the colorful buildings and shops are just beautiful. The area has so much character. There is always tango music playing, a Tango demonstration in progress, and at least one Maradona (famous futbol player/coach) impersonator willing you to pay for a picture with him. I'm sure, based on many news reports, there are more than a few pickpockets as well.
This barrio is also the location of Argentina's famous futbol team, Boca Juniors, and murals of their star player, Messi, can be found throughout the city. They are very serious about their futbol here. An Argentine told me recently to never discuss two things with Argentines: your preference in futbol teams and The Malvinas (Falkland Islands). Both conversations can bring on fights and even rioting!
If you mention La Boca to a local, they always like to point out that President Bush's twins had lunch in La Boca while in Buenos Aires, and one of their purses was stolen...the Secret Service agents couldn't stop an Argentine pickpocket.
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