South American Vacations

Paraguay is known as the Republic of Paraguay and has a population of 6,158,000.  It is a landlocked country and borders Argentina to the south, Brazil to the east and Bolivia to the northwest.  Its geographical location has given the country the nickname the Heart of America.  Paraguay has also been called the Forgotten Country of South America, as compared to many other countries, it is it eh least populated and visited.  However, there is much to see in Paraguay.

First understand that thought the land is rich in resources (water, hydroelectricity, beef and soy bean) many in the nation live in poverty.  In fact, Paraguay has often times been cited by some sources as one of the cheapest countries in the world.  Climate wise, the country is heavily influenced by the Tropic of Capricorn, which brings a very tropical atmosphere to the country.  However, northern parts of the country are more tropical, whereas southern parts could be considered subtropical.  The official languages of Paraguay are Spanish and Guarani.  That means that English is not widespread, except in maybe very touristy and commercial areas.  In some parts of the country Portuguese is spoken. 

In Paraguay, usually men shake hands when they meet.  However, when men and women interact it is typical for them to shake hands and to give a kiss on each cheek.  A common phrase you will hear in Paraguay is “todo bien?”  This means “Is everything all right?”  It is a customary saying of good affection.  (Just think of it as the Paraguay version of “You OK?”)  Remember to be polite and to answer these courteous residents.  Whenever someone offers you food it is respectful to accept it and love it.  (Think of the server as your mother)  Otherwise, refusing food may be considered a bit rude.

What will you taste in Paraguay?  Paraguay cuisine is characteristic of South American cuisine as a whole.  Popular courses include rice and beans as well as Brazilian specialties like fried bananas.  You can also expect to find fried meat and pastry dishes such as empanadas and milanesas.  Since this is traditional South American food, most of what you will be eating won’t be too spicy.  

Major Cities In Paraguay

Asuncion: This is the capital of Paraguay.  It doesn’t offer much in the way of traditional tourist amenities but has a unique charm as well as some museums worth noting. 

Ciudad del Este: This is the premier city for shopping in the country. 

Encarnacion: Offers a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarangue.

Nueva Australia: This is not a city per say, but a town that still boasts descendants from a 19th century communist Australian colony.  Since it was founded in 1893 that would have the colony the first communist faction anywhere on earth.

Is Paraguay Safe?

Paraguay is not as rosy-colored as some other tourist countries in South America.  One problem could be that there are not many large cities in the area.  Therefore, try to use common sense to avert danger.  Try not to have any dealings with the police or with anyone you don’t trust.  This is not to suggest that Paraguay is dangerous; in fact, some say the small country is not even as risky as big cities like Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires.  However, exercising caution will keep you safe.  One note of caution: Paraguay is currently suffering its worst yellow fever epidemic in nearly a century.  It is strongly recommended that you get vaccinated for this disease ten days in advance of arriving.

Paraguay vacations are fun and enlightening—and best of all are probably the cheapest vacations you will find in South America or anywhere else.

Paraguay Trivia: Paraguay is home to the world largest drinking water reservoir in the world!