July 06, 2022

Overlooked Asuncion

By Philippe Jolicoeur
Presidencial palace of Paraguay

After much deliberation, we finally settled on Asuncion, Paraguay as our next travel destination! We were drawn to the city's distinctive architecture and rich culture. Plus, it's one of the cheapest destinations in South America perfect for our budget! I never thought I would say this, but I am really missing Asuncion. It's not that I loved the city or anything (the pollution was pretty bad), but it was a great place to take a break from my normal routine. And, as much as I hate to admit it, the city has a certain charm that is hard to find elsewhere. Plus, the food was pretty good (especially the empanadas). If only there were a way to combine all of these things into one package...hmmm. Guess I'll just have to go back!

We almost never venture outside of a country's capital city when we're on the road somewhere new. There are usually charming atmospheres, beautiful buildings, and an interesting mix of old and new history written on the walls of the city where important decisions affecting the economy and politics of the country are being made in the cities that have been chosen to be the showcase for centuries.

You can often find two completely different worlds on one street in the capital cities of South American countries. When indigenous people in their traditional clothing try to sell the produce they grew in their gardens, important-looking men in business suits and cell phones in hand pass by them. To us, the contrasts between the capitals of more developed and less developed countries are fascinating, and that's why we're so fond of them.

Here are some places to see : Paraguayan National Congress (Palacio Legislativo), One of the city's most eye-catching new structures. The Republic of China (Taiwan) government donated $20 million to the construction of the facility in 2002, which opened in 2003. Only one country in South America, Paraguay, recognises Taiwan as a separate country from China's mainland (the People's Republic of China). This building's most striking feature is its mirrored facade, which reflects the riverbank slums below. You may be able to get a tour in English if you ask for it. Arrive before 13:00 to visit the small museum inside.

2 Cathedrals of the Metropolis (Catedral Metropolitana). Cathedral of the nation. In the vicinity of the lovely and spacious plaza Independencia.

3, Panteón Nacional de los Heroe hosts the National Heroes Pantheon. The national heroes of Paraguay are buried here, as well as those who fought in the Triple Alliance and the Chaco War, commemorated by plaques. Every two days, a new guard is put in place.

4 Centro Cultural El Cabildo .An old colonial building, which was used as the Congress Palace until 2003, houses one of the few museums open on weekends. There are a number of exhibition spaces nearby the riverside costanera. The indigenous art of Paraguay and Latin America can be seen in the Sala Museo del Barro, one of the museum's sections.

5.La Casa de la Independica is a well preserved Historic house built in 1772 where the independence of Paraguay was secretly planned in 1811

You will take your best pictures during a stroll at dusk. To get some amazing photos in Asunción's historic centre visit between 15 and 17 p.m., go along the city's main thoroughfares.

Asuncion is known for its food and drink. Locals will tell you that the city has some of the best restaurants in Paraguay. Whether you're looking for a date night spot or a place to get your grub on, Asuncion has something for everyone. And of course, no visit would be complete without trying one of the city's famous terere drinks!

The purpose of this trip was to learn more about the country and its culture, with a focus on the food. I accomplished that and more. I not only tasted some amazing food, but also experienced the culture and learned about the people. I would highly recommend a visit to Asuncion Paraguay for anyone looking for an off-the-beaten path destination with rich history and delicious food.

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