History

• Soldiers from the Triple Alliance, a war that cost Paraguay dearly.
  
  Asuncion is among South America's oldest cities, having been founded in 1537 by Spanish conquistadors looking to build a fort there. The capital's nickname, "The Mother Of Cities," nods to those origins. In 1811, Paraguay broke away from Spanish colonial rule, ushering in an era of rapid economic growth for Asuncion. This lasted until 1870, when an ill-advised war against Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay cost 300,000 Paraguayan lives and plunged the country into decades of economic darkness. Asuncion, in particular, suffered greatly from pillaging and ransacking by the Brazilian Army, whose troops occupied the country until 1876.
  
  

Political Climate

• Alfredo Stroessner at the height of his power. He died a Brazilian exile in 2006.
  
  Paraguay responded to its defeat by opening up to outsiders. As a result, large numbers of Argentines, Brazilians, Chinese, Germans, South Koreans and Ukrainians--among other minorities--now call Paraguay home and play a big role in its economy. The country has worked hard to get out from under the shadow of dictator Alfredo Stroessner, whose regime was characterized by corruption, political murder and such abuses as the 1972 trashing of Asuncion University. In 1989, Stroessner was ousted after 34 years in power and the country began its transition to genuine democracy. In April 2008, voters decisively ended 61 years of conservative rule by electing Fernando Lugo, a leftist former bishop, as president. Similarly, many landmarks that bore Stroessner's imprint, such as Asuncion's airport, have since been renamed.
  
  

Climate And Culture

• An aerial view of Asuncion by night.
  
  Asuncion's climate ranges from subtropical to temperate. From May to October, the weather is mild, with few cold days, but the city is extremely hot and humid during the rest of the year. Many homes lack central heating, and accommodations are costlier and more difficult to find outside of the capital. Citizenship requirements are considered less stringent if the applicant can show proof of $5,000 or more in a bank account, as well as a professional title or other employment. Tourists may stay indefinitely in the country, but risk having to pay a fine if they do not leave every three months.
  
  

Features

• A low cost of living is among Asuncion's big selling points--it consistent ranks as the world's cheapest capital city. Property taxes are just $20 a year, while home and health insurance can be obtained for $30 and $21 per year, respectively. Rooms in topflight hotels go for as little as $35 to $50 per day, and discount rates by the week are available, too. Conversely, Paraguay's lack of infrastructure and smaller population--Asuncion claimed just 512,000 residents as of 2002--make its territory less susceptible to the pollution problems hurting its high-profile neighbors, such as Brazil. American movies and music are readily available, as are readily identifiable landmarks like Burger King and McDonald's, which can ease a new resident's sense of isolation.
  
  

Considerations

• Fernando Lugo's supporters celebrate his electoral victory.
  
  Paraguay's social culture is considered more relaxed than many First World nations, but may try the patience of those used to the faster-paced American lifestyle. Corruption and social inequality remain major problems, leading to higher crime rates against people and property. For those reasons, walking alone at night is not recommended, and care should be taken to avoid propositions like illegal residency permits. Employment is harder to find as well, although English teachers are always in demand. Shipping in heavy goods like cars and furniture is not recommended due to the cost and because you can get much of what you need in Paraguay.