The place is so cheap that a travel journalist was once laughed out of a nightclub because he paid the equivalent of 55p for a local tasty pie, which should have been close to free
If you’re seeking maximum value for your holiday budget and fancy somewhere completely off the beaten track, then this destination fits the bill perfectly. Asunción, Paraguay’s capital, officially holds the title of the world’s cheapest city, yet tourists still aren’t flocking there in droves.
The place is so incredibly affordable that travel journalist Rob Crossan was once ridiculed in a nightclub after paying the equivalent of 55p for a local delicious pie, which should have cost virtually nothing.
Mr Crossan believed he’d secured a bargain with the ham and cheese empanada, roughly the size of a travel pillow, but locals in the nightclub were left in stitches, offering him their condolences for purchasing “the most expensive” one in Paraguay.
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That incident occurred back in 2007, yet the city has maintained its budget-friendly reputation whilst remaining largely untouched by mass tourism, reports the Express.
The city took its name from the Feast of the Assumption celebrated there on August 15, 1537. Its population expanded four years later when Buenos Aires was abandoned in 1541 following an assault by the Pampa Indians, with residents fleeing to Asunción.
It subsequently served as the centre of Spanish colonial operations in eastern South America for nearly half a century before Buenos Aires was re-established. Today it boasts numerous flowering trees and several expansive parks.
Alongside the river, suburban structures remain colonial in character, whilst the city centre is contemporary with towering buildings. The cathedral, presidential palace, and the Pantheon (tomb) of Heroes, a smaller replica of the Invalides in Paris, are all must-see attractions built in the 19th century.
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Things to do
In most cities across Paraguay, parades are held to celebrate the founding of Asuncion. These events offer a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s culture, music, and traditional dress.
Historical sites such as the Palacio de los López or the Church of La Encarnación are worth visiting to learn more about the founding of Asuncion and its significance in Paraguayan history.
Don’t miss out on trying traditional Paraguayan dishes like sopa paraguaya (a cheesy cornbread) or chipa (a type of bread). Food festivals or cooking demonstrations are also great ways to discover more about the local cuisine.
Firework displays are a common sight in many Paraguayan cities as they celebrate the founding of Asuncion with spectacular shows. For the adventurous tourists, joining a traditional dance group during the festivities is an option.