Asunción is Paraguay's capital, sitting on the Paraguay River's eastern bank. The city mixes old colonial buildings with newer developments. It feels laid-back with a warm climate and friendly people. It's a good base to explore Paraguay's culture and nature away from typical tourist spots.
Try local dishes like Sopa Paraguaya, Chipa, and asado. International options include Italian and Asian cuisines mainly in upscale areas. Vegetarian and vegan food is growing but still limited. Some street food and restaurants serve late at night, especially weekends.
Nightlife centers in Villa Morra and Carmelitas with pubs and clubs ranging from casual to energetic dance venues.
Developing specialty coffee scene with third-wave cafes and local roasters. Not large but improving.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Restaurants may include a 10% service charge; if not, a 5-10% tip is common.
SIM cards are sold at the airport and official mobile stores. Main providers are Tigo, Personal, and Claro. Registration needs a passport. eSIMs are rare.
Main tourist spots and avenues are fairly clean, but some outer areas are less so. Waste pickup is regular and recycling is developing.
Few places operate 24/7. Some pharmacies and minimarts have late hours. Night clinics are rare. Late-night food options exist mostly on weekends.
International products available in large supermarkets like Superseis, Stock, and Salemma. Mercado 4 offers fresh local produce and meat with common bargaining. Supermarkets open from early morning to late evening; smaller shops may close for siesta.
Card use is growing in big stores and restaurants. Cash is still common and preferred for markets and transport.
ATMs are easy to find in banks, shopping malls, and gas stations. Common banks include Banco Familiar, Banco Continental, and BBVA. Fees for international cards range from $3 to $5 USD per withdrawal.
International schools like American School of Asunción and Pan American International School teach in English. Local schools use Spanish and Guarani. School year runs February to December; spots in international schools may fill quickly.
A small but growing digital nomad community. Meetups are occasional and networking is informal. Co-living spaces exist but are limited.
Good green spaces include Parque Ñu Guasu, Parque de la Salud, and Costanera. Parks are suitable for outdoor activities and running.
Popular running spots include Costanera de Asunción and Parque Ñu Guasu with good safety during daytime.
Multiple gyms operate across the city, offering modern facilities and classes.
Tennis courts are common at private clubs, with coaching and some equipment rental.
Padel courts are available, mostly at sports clubs with booking required.
Several yoga studios offer various styles. Drop-in classes are common, some with English-speaking instructors.
You can find Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing, Taekwondo, and Karate gyms. English-speaking instructors sometimes available.
No skiing due to warm climate and lack of mountains.
Kayaking and paddleboarding are possible on the Paraguay River, mainly along the Costanera. Sailing and windsurfing are rare but available through private clubs.
No surfing in Asunción; it is an inland city.
No diving spots; the city is inland on a river.
Private hospitals like Hospital La Costa and Sanatorio Migone have some English-speaking staff. Public healthcare varies. Pharmacies are common and may open late or 24/7.
Tap water is treated and mostly safe in city center, but many prefer bottled water.
Parks like Parque Ñu Guasu and Botanical Garden offer playgrounds and outdoor spaces. Kid-friendly cafés appear in malls. Baby supplies are widely available.
More accepting than rural areas, with some safe spaces and annual pride events. Legal protections are limited.
Becoming more pet-friendly with vet clinics, pet supply stores, and some pet-friendly cafes and accommodations.
Power is generally reliable but outages happen, especially in storms or hot summer days.
Hills and small mountain ranges are within an hour's drive, such as Cerro Ñemby and Cerro Lambaré. Mostly short hikes or scenic walks accessible by car.
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