Asunción, Paraguay

• Asunción is Paraguay's capital and much smaller and quieter than most South American cities. There aren't many tourists here, which means less English but also fewer tourist traps. The upscale neighborhoods like Villa Morra and Carmelitas have decent cafes where you can sit with a laptop or book without anyone bothering you. These areas have good lighting and security after dark.
• Almost nobody speaks English outside of tourist police and upscale hotels, so you'll need at least basic Spanish. The city has very distinct safe and unsafe zones - Villa Morra, Carmelitas, Recoleta, and Las Mercedes are where expats and middle-class locals live. The historic downtown isn't safe after dark and should be avoided.
• Paraguay ranks among the more peaceful countries in South America on the Global Peace Index, but pickpocketing on buses is still common and motorcycle robberies happen in less secure areas. Keep your phone completely hidden on public transport. Take Uber at night instead of walking anywhere outside the main safe neighborhoods.
• Villa Morra has the most restaurant options and generally feels the safest. Carmelitas is where the nightlife is, centered around Paseo Carmelitas. Both areas stay busy until late with decent security and lighting.

Spanish and Guaraní are the main languages. Almost no English outside upscale hotels and tourist police. Emergency service (911) has some English-speaking operators. Tourist police (441-111) can help with translation. Learn basic Spanish.

• Dress conservatively. Low-cut tops, crop tops, and revealing clothing will get you catcalled. Cover shoulders and knees in churches. Locals dress modestly, especially outside tourist areas.
• Almost no English outside upscale hotels. Learn basic Spanish: 'hola' (hello), 'gracias' (thank you), 'por favor' (please), 'disculpe' (excuse me). Keep Google Translate handy.
• Paraguay is traditional and conservative. Greetings are handshakes or cheek kisses. Tip 10% at restaurants. Always carry ID - keep a copy of your passport photo page and entry stamp with you.
• Cafes in Villa Morra and Carmelitas are fine for eating alone or working on a laptop. You'll see other people doing the same.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Emergency Services: 911. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• Buses cost 2,300-3,400 guaraníes ($0.30-$0.45 USD) and use rechargeable electronic cards like 'Jaha' or 'Más' that you buy at kiosks. The Jaha GPS app shows routes. Pickpocketing happens on crowded buses, so keep everything hidden.
• Uber and Bolt both work here with upfront pricing and cashless payment. Use them at night or when you have luggage. Don't hail random taxis on the street.
• You can walk during the day in Villa Morra, Carmelitas, and Recoleta. After dark, stick to well-lit main streets in these areas or just take Uber. Don't walk in the historic downtown after sunset.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Asunción with local guides and curated experiences.