Will people be annoyed if I don't speak Spanish?

Not at all. Porteños are generally very friendly and accustomed to tourists. As long as you are polite and use basic Spanish greetings, they will be happy to help.

Is it safe to use a translator app in public?

Yes, but be mindful of your surroundings. Do not stand still on a busy sidewalk holding your expensive phone out; duck into a café or shop doorway to check your translation.

Navigating Buenos Aires Without Speaking Spanish

You can easily get by in Buenos Aires with English in tourist hubs like Palermo and Recoleta, but you should download the Google Translate offline pack and learn basic pleasantries. Use the Cabify app for rides to avoid language barriers with taxi drivers and handle all payments via credit card or digital wallets.

Download Offline Language Packs. Open the Google Translate app before you leave Wi-Fi, select Spanish, and tap the download icon. This ensures you can translate menus or signs even when your roaming data is spotty.
Master the 'Digital' Currency. Avoid cash confusion by using your credit card (Visa/Mastercard) for everything. Since the 'MEP' exchange rate was introduced, your foreign card will automatically get a rate close to the blue market rate, saving you the headache of counting pesos.
Stick to Ride-Sharing Apps. Download Cabify before arrival. You input your destination in the app, the price is fixed, and the driver follows the GPS. This eliminates the need to explain directions or negotiate fares in Spanish.
Learn the Polite Basics. Memorize these four phrases: 'Hola' (Hello), 'Gracias' (Thank you), 'La cuenta, por favor' (The bill, please), and '¿Hablas inglés?' (Do you speak English?). Using these will make locals much more willing to help you.

Will people be annoyed if I don't speak Spanish?: Not at all. Porteños are generally very friendly and accustomed to tourists. As long as you are polite and use basic Spanish greetings, they will be happy to help.
Is it safe to use a translator app in public?: Yes, but be mindful of your surroundings. Do not stand still on a busy sidewalk holding your expensive phone out; duck into a café or shop doorway to check your translation.