Escape the city to enter a different world only an hour or so from the city centre, as you arrive in the Tigre Delta, which feels like its caught in a bit of a time warp, its faded glamour still a tranquil oasis for many city dwellers. This was, from the 19th century, a weekend escape for aristocrats and the wealthy. Its gentle canals are lined with big rambling houses and weekend ‘casonas’ and elegant promenades. Arrive at El Descanso, a beautiful private island nestled in the intricate water canals of the Delta. Featuring lagoons, channels and designer gardens dotted with outdoor works of art, it is home to a myriad of bird species. The tour can be tailored to suit a particular interest from bird-watching to contemporary art or studying local flora and fauna and includes lunch.