Spanish is spoken in many different countries and differences in vocabulary and pronunciation exist. The Spanish spoken in Argentina is best characterized by its similarity in intonation to Italian.
Learning a new language is often difficult, but necessary if you want to get the most out of your stay. Try to start the learning process before you travel. Watch Spanish-language films and if possible, watch Argentine films (e.g. Hijo de la novia; Nueve Reinas; Valentin). Listen to Internet radio stations in Spanish and read as much as you can in the language you want to learn. If you live somewhere where there are native Spanish speakers, you might want to advertise for a language exchange partner – someone who wants to swap conversation practice.
After you arrive
Practice is the best way to learn the language. As soon as you arrive in the country, mingle with the locals. Talk to as many people as you can. Argentineans love to talk. Porteños, as the inhabitants of Buenos Aires are called, are notorious for talking a lot. Do not be surprised to find yourself remain seated in a taxi because the conversation with the cabdriver has not ended by the time you arrive at your destination. Do not worry about making mistakes when talking; it is from your mistakes that you learn. Listen to the pronunciation, the melody of the language. A lot of vocabulary can be learned through daily contact.
Do not make the mistake most language students worldwide make. It is very tempting to speak Spanish in classes and talk other languages with your fellow students after class. Of course you should hang out with your fellow students, but if you really want to learn the language, establish contact with the locals too. It might be hard at first sight due to the fact that you will have to make more effort to communicate, but that is the best way to learn.