Asunción
Slow-paced Asunción sometimes seems trapped in time. The city’s offerings for business executives are rather limited, but they have begun expanding.
Sleeping
Granados Park. Relax after a day’s work at this colonial-style hotel with its open-air hydro massage, pool and gym. They’ll iron your clothes at no charge upon arrival. Internet service is also free. Rates begin at $90. www.granadospark.com.py
Villa Mora Suites. This small all-suites hotel opened three years ago and immediately grabbed favor with business travelers. Rates from $100. www.villamorrasuites.com.py
Relaxing
Resort/Casino Yacht and Golf Club. Just 15 minutes from downtown, this complex features all the necessary business services but with plenty of opportunities for play, especially on the golf course. Water sports, fishing and tennis lead the long list of activities here on the shores of the Paraguay River. Rooms from $120 to $295. www.hotelyacht.com.py
Eating
La Paraguayita. Enjoy barbecued beef, pork and pasta dishes to the accompaniment of bolero music at this restaurant on Avenida Brasilia; phone 595-21-204-497.
Stenger’s. Peter Stenger established his reputation with this eatery. This is straight-up German fare. Avenida Perón and Primero de Marzo: phone: 595-21-334-771.
La Cascada. Dine by a waterfall on French and Italian fare. Paraguay’s favorite fish, surubí, also is on the menu. At Chile 980; phone: 595-21-495-632.
Shopping
If there’s time for a short trip out of town, visit Itagua, where the famous spiderweb lacework, ñandutí is made.