how
To Get There
Silvio Petirossi Airport is nine miles east of Asunción and the cab ride should cost about $15. Visitors need a visa for stays over 90 days and must pay a $18 departure tax.
To Get Around
Asunción follows a grid plan centered around the Plaza de los Héroes. East-west streets change names at Independencia Nacional. Government and financial offices are concentrated near the Plaza de los Héroes and the Plaza Constitución. Taxis are plentiful.
where
To Stay
Hotel Excelsior (Chile and Manduvira, Tel: 595-21 495-632, www.excelsior.com.py) with traditional European-style décor, is located a five-minute walk from downtown Asunción. Sabe Center Hotel (25 de Mayo esquina Mexico, Tel: 595 21 450 093, www.sabecenterhotel.com.py) is a good alternative.
The Hotel Resort and Casino Yacht y Golf Club Paraguayo (Av. Del Yacht # 11, Lambare,Tel: 2190-6121, www.hotelyacht.com.py) is a five-star resort for business or leisure right outside the city.
To Eat
The French food at La Pérgola Jardín (Perú 240 y Jose Berges Tel: 214-014) makes this restaurant one of Asunción’s most sophisticated dining spots. Reservations are essential. Peter Stenger (Avda Perón c/ 1ro de Marzo and Félix Bogado, Tel: 334-771) is known for its exceedingly fresh food.
Mburicao (Prof. Antonio Riobó 737, Tel: 660-048) is a contemporary Mediterranean restaurant that has become a local favorite.
To Drink
Lobby Bar at the Excelsior Hotel is good place to talk and have a drink.
To Unwind
Museo Etnográfico Andrés Barbero (Avda España 217, Tel: 595-21-441-696) houses archeological and ethnographic collections. Museo del Barro showcases indigenous and urban art.
what
To Buy
Ñanduti laces made by Paraguay’s Guarani Indians, musical instruments such as harps and guitars made out of native woods and cuero repujado, carved leather for home décor such as ottomans or wall covers.