This is a list of the 5 best things to do in Asuncion, Paraguay.
People talk about places like Rio, Buenos Aires and Cuzco when they mention South America. They don't often mention Paraguay. Which is why it's an excellent option to go off the beaten track and visit Asuncion. It's an inspirational city and contains a lot of charm. Get over to Asuncion and check it out.
1. Visit South America's First Ever Train Station
Asuncion housed South America's first ever train station and instead of destroying it when it wasn't needed, they have turned it into a museum. This is a great place to head to and reminisce and relax! Plus you're one of very few tourists so you will have the whole place to yourself!
2. Slums and Argentina
There's nothing like a bit of simultaneous country viewing and Paraguay sits directly opposite Argentina. So much so than at various points you can stare over at Argentina. You'll need to be in and around the slums to get a decent vantage point. And while this isn't recommended at night, I must admit I loved it by day. Asuncion's port is so untouristy, you'll be mistaken for a native before you open your mouth. Although you can see Argentina from Asuncion, I mut mention that I came into Paraguay from the other side. I got a bus from Ciudad del Este.
3. Reminisce about Jose Luis Chilavert
Personally my Panini Sticker albums as a child influenced and inspired my football dreams. I remember seeing Paraguay in the 1986 World Cup and wondering "who the fuck they were". Just over a decade later and their goalkeeper Jose Luis Chilavert had become one of the world's best keepers and a final point in their international team which qualified for 4 consecutive World Cup Finals. I visited the national stadium, sneaked through the gates to stand on the pitch and "do a Chilavert". A local mused "this boys a nutcase" as I flew my well travelled Northern Ireland flag at the centre circle. "I am mate, but not as nuts as Jose" I replied, while reminiscing the time the Paraguayan struck the crossbar with a free kick in the World Cup. Not bad for a charismatic goalkeeper.
4. Heroes Square (Plaza de Los Heroes) and Asuncion's Buildings
Paraguay, like most countries has a history of war and this is remembered by the monuments and plaques in Heroes Square. It's worth a visit and Paraguay also has a lot of army around them.
After checking out the Heroes Square and monuments don't forget that Asuncion has lots of other cool old buildings to check out including Churches, a Palace, a Cathedral and old style skyscrapers.
5. Heading out at night
If you're in Asuncion it would seem ridiculous not to visit some bars and you'll be pleased to know it has some great pubs, a relaxed attitude and a good nightlife. Some bars serve good food, have special shots, their own beer and even live music. This is an unusual capital city to party in.
People talk about places like Rio, Buenos Aires and Cuzco when they mention South America. They don't often mention Paraguay. Which is why it's an excellent option to go off the beaten track and visit Asuncion. It's an inspirational city and contains a lot of charm. Get over to Asuncion and check it out.
1. Visit South America's First Ever Train Station
Asuncion housed South America's first ever train station and instead of destroying it when it wasn't needed, they have turned it into a museum. This is a great place to head to and reminisce and relax! Plus you're one of very few tourists so you will have the whole place to yourself!
2. Slums and Argentina
There's nothing like a bit of simultaneous country viewing and Paraguay sits directly opposite Argentina. So much so than at various points you can stare over at Argentina. You'll need to be in and around the slums to get a decent vantage point. And while this isn't recommended at night, I must admit I loved it by day. Asuncion's port is so untouristy, you'll be mistaken for a native before you open your mouth. Although you can see Argentina from Asuncion, I mut mention that I came into Paraguay from the other side. I got a bus from Ciudad del Este.
3. Reminisce about Jose Luis Chilavert
Personally my Panini Sticker albums as a child influenced and inspired my football dreams. I remember seeing Paraguay in the 1986 World Cup and wondering "who the fuck they were". Just over a decade later and their goalkeeper Jose Luis Chilavert had become one of the world's best keepers and a final point in their international team which qualified for 4 consecutive World Cup Finals. I visited the national stadium, sneaked through the gates to stand on the pitch and "do a Chilavert". A local mused "this boys a nutcase" as I flew my well travelled Northern Ireland flag at the centre circle. "I am mate, but not as nuts as Jose" I replied, while reminiscing the time the Paraguayan struck the crossbar with a free kick in the World Cup. Not bad for a charismatic goalkeeper.
4. Heroes Square (Plaza de Los Heroes) and Asuncion's Buildings
Paraguay, like most countries has a history of war and this is remembered by the monuments and plaques in Heroes Square. It's worth a visit and Paraguay also has a lot of army around them.
After checking out the Heroes Square and monuments don't forget that Asuncion has lots of other cool old buildings to check out including Churches, a Palace, a Cathedral and old style skyscrapers.
5. Heading out at night
If you're in Asuncion it would seem ridiculous not to visit some bars and you'll be pleased to know it has some great pubs, a relaxed attitude and a good nightlife. Some bars serve good food, have special shots, their own beer and even live music. This is an unusual capital city to party in.
About the Author:
For further totally amazing stories like Best things to do in Asuncion visit Jonny Blair's nomadic travel website which is one of the Best travel blogs on the internet!
EmoticonEmoticon