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Parañaque

Parañaque is a city in southern Metro Manila. It contains the Entertainment City (E-City), the Little Las Vegas of Manila containing four huge casinos, and Baclaran, a residential and commercial neighborhood containing bustling flea markets, the Baclaran Church, backpacker inns and some nightclubs.

Understand
Parañaque lies to the southwest part of Metro Manila, surrounded by Pasay to the north, Manila Bay to the west, Las Piñas and Muntinlupa to the south, and Taguig to the east. It is largely a residential community just south of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport, full of large subdivisions, notably the affluent BF Homes, also a barangay in its own right. BF Homes also includes areas in Las Piñas and part of Muntinlupa.

The Entertainment City area, administratively part of barangay Tambo and Baclaran, houses the large casino complexes in the city, in sharp contrast to the chaotic scenes to the east. The area, developed by the national gambling corporation and regulator, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) from 2002, lies on reclaimed areas on Manila Bay created during the Marcos administration through the 1970s and 1980s. The area is flourishing with the ongoing casino construction, which also causes a rise in land prices.

Baclaran, once a peaceful fishing village, has been a bargain hunters' paradise and a congested working-class ghetto south of Manila. It is home to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help (Baclaran Church or Redemptorist Church), a shrine dedicated to the Our Lady of Perpetual Help, and flea markets (tiangges) selling cheap goods at bargain prices. First time visitors, especially those from the airport, are easily overwhelmed by street scenes and the people, with peddlers, beggars, street performers, and vagrants sharing space with slow-moving cars and crowds of shoppers, residents and students, but behind the chaos are a laid-back nightlife scene and some backpacker accommodations.

The Kabihasnan area is the city's historic district, but is largely a congested residential area, with scattered slum areas.

The rest of Parañaque is characterized by large subdivisions, many being barangays on their own, and interspersed slums and family-owned compounds. Sucat Road (Dr. A. Santos Avenue), a tree-lined six-lane avenue, is the area's major thoroughfare. Shopping malls and most food destinations, including those in the subdivisions, lie on this part of the city.

The city has some visible foreign populations, mostly Chinese and some Westerners. White residents, often spouse of locals, often live behind the security of the large, self-contained subdivisions. Chinese migrants, generally workers, gambling operators and land developers, on the other hand, are mostly concentrated near Entertainment City and Baclaran, though their influx is not without negative effects to local businesses and land prices.

Get in
By plane, one arrives here at Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which straddles the city limits into nearby Pasay. Provincial buses, from southern Luzon come at the new multi-story airport-style bus station near the Entertainment City.

From outside Metro Manila

Provincial trips arrive at the second floor, and departing trips are at the ground floor. Tickets for outbound trips, regardless of distance, from PITX are prepurchased from the ticket booths. Buses depart from any of the 59 bays on the terminal's 10 gates. Watch for overhead screens for the gate and bay where you must board the bus.

Point-to-point (P2P) express buses by DNS Transport (from Makati CBD and Ortigas Center) and Pangasinan Solid North Transit (from Baguio) terminate at PITX. Saulog also has a P2P bus from Cavite City's Sangley Point Airport. RRCG also has a P2P service from Batangas City.

The bus station provides more-than-average amenities, with air-conditioned waiting rooms, an interfaith prayer room, and elevators. Shops are slowly springing up at the terminal. There is also a food court full of vendors in kiosks.

Within the metro
Since June 2020, Parañaque is served by these following numbered bus routes, all converging at PITX:

 * Route E EDSA Carousel: A bus rapid transit (BRT) service plying EDSA, from Monumento in Caloocan. Unlike the other routes, it is exclusively served by accessible low-floor buses. Cash is not honored as payment and a smart card (e.g. Beep) is required.
 * Route 2 Monumento-PITX: Runs from Monumento in Caloocan via C-3, Navotas, Radial Road 10 and Roxas Boulevard.
 * Route 18 PITX-NAIA loop: Services to and from the four Ninoy Aquino International Airport on a clockwise loop via EDSA and Andrews Avenue. It replaced the Airport Loop buses used to run the same service, except they no longer stop at Baclaran.
 * Route 24 Alabang-PITX: Runs from the South Station bus terminal in Alabang, Muntinlupa via Las Piñas.

By jeepney
There are many jeepneys in and out of Parañaque, most terminating at Baclaran

From Manila, there is the Baclaran-Divisoria route, which plies Taft Avenue, but is suspended due to a problem with the drivers ending trips midway along the route.

From Muntinlupa, the Alabang-Zapote-Baclaran route has frequent services, but they take over an hour as they make many stops.

There are services from Cavite as well, most commonly ending at Dasmariñas. They ply the expressway on the final leg to Baclaran, but are not considered express services (there is no route from Cavite that completely uses surface roads).

Express service
There are a few express jeepney services to Parañaque; most use a surface road for most of the route, and taking the expressway for the remaining part of the trip.

 * Alabang-Baclaran via Coastal Road — Leaves South Station in Alabang, Muntinlupa, plies Alabang-Zapote Road and Quirino Avenue/Diego Cera Avenue and enters Manila-Cavite Expressway ("Coastal Road") at Kabihasnan, and makes a loop at Baclaran for the return trip, where they enter the expressway from Roxas Boulevard and exit at Bacoor. Service frequency is every 15 minutes, but often they are rush-hour service only.
 * Pacita-Sucat via South Superhighway — They leave San Pedro every 30 minutes and head for Sucat Exit. They really do not enter Parañaque, but there is a transfer to a jeepney headed for Baclaran from there.

By car
The NAIA Expressway (NAIAx), an elevated toll expressway opened in 2016, terminates at Paranaque, making this easily reachable by car from Ninoy Aquino International Airport. The older Manila—Cavite Expressway (CAVITEx, or its older name, Coastal Road), terminating at NAIA Road, is the major road access from the south. The South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and Skyway also serves Parañaque, with exits at Sucat and Bicutan, but the Skyway exits are only accessible southbound.

From Manila, you might take Roxas Boulevard which terminates at the city, then continues as CAVITEx. A toll-free alternative from the south is Route 62 (Quirino Avenue), which includes Diego Cera Avenue in Las Piñas, but it is a narrow four-lane highway through the coastal barangays of San Dionisio, La Huerta, Don Galo, and Tambo, which forms the "Kabihasnan" area.

Get around
Parañaque has a bad reputation for sprawl, with chronic traffic jams worsened by the dozens of gated communities feeding into them, nevertheless, public transportation is plentiful on the city's main roads. There is one bus route radiating from PITX, the Route 23 PITX-Sucat which plies Ninoy Aquino and Dr. A. Santos avenues, and elsewhere, you get on a jeepney. The crowded shopping district of Baclaran is easily navigable on foot, so do the city proper at Kabihasnan. Shuttle buses connects the casinos in Entertainment City with PITX.

See
Despite having good transport conditions, Parañaque is not much a city with a good collection of sights, due to its sprawling and squalid nature. All that said, there are some few scattered sights around.

Gamble
Parañaque is a growing destination for gambling, and can be called a "Little Las Vegas of Metro Manila" for being home to enormous resorts and casinos that became integral to the city's economy. Integrated resorts and casinos are being built in the Entertainment City development on reclaimed portion of Manila Bay.

Flea market
Perhaps one major destination in Parañaque is its major shopping center, Baclaran, home to its numerous tiangges (flea markets) flocked beside the streets. From the surroundings of Baclaran Church to the main streets of that area (Redemptorist Road, Taft Avenue Extension, and Quirino Avenue), you can find vast numbers of vendors selling almost anything, which you can purchase through haggling and bargaining for the best price. Indoor malls around the LRT Baclaran station also hosts numbers of tiangge vendors. Not also to forget are the ukay-ukay (used clothes) stores where you may find high-end brands at the least cost.

Stay safe
Be cautious when venturing in Baclaran, as petty crimes are common, and better avoid entering unfamiliar areas that are home to criminals, street thugs, delinquent youth, and unsanitary and unsafe conditions.

Go next

 * Las Piñas - residential suburb, home to the Bamboo Organ church.
 * Muntinlupa - another residential suburb with a growing central business district and mid to high-class communities.

title: Parañaque


text:
Paraćin

Paraćin (Параћин) is a town and municipality in Central Serbia, approx 150 km south east of Belgrade. It is a city in the central Serbian province of Pomoravle. It is a transportation hub that connects the capital Belgrade to the north, Nishi to the south, Zayechar to the east, and Krallevo to the west. Petrus, on the eastern outskirts of the city, was a Roman city. The villages of Cissevatz and Gonyamutnitsa near here are famous for tourist attractions.

Understand
Paraćin is a city in the central Serbian province of Pomoravle. Paraćin is a transportation hub that extends to the capital Belgrade to the north, Zayechar to the east, Krallevo to the west, and Nishi to the south. The Moraba River flows far to the west and the Tsurnicha River, a tributary of the Moraba River, meanders through the middle of the city.

On the eastern outskirts of Paraćin, there was the Roman city of Petrus, but today there are few traces left. The Conical Petrus Hotel stands next to the Tsurnitsa River in the middle of the city, and there is an antique Holy Trinity Church nearby. There is a large bottle factory in the city, and the villages of Cisibatz and Gonyamutnitsa are considered tourist attractions on the eastern outskirts.

History
There is a neolithic site in the town of drenovatz, about 15 km south of downtown Paraćin. An eighth - century B.C. Basarabi bowl was discovered with a painting of a chicken. The medieval village of petrus on the eastern outskirts of Paraćin was given by Emperor Dushan to the local ' abacus', bucoslav. Petrus was the center of the region of petrusy, one of the spiritual centers of medieval Serbia.

Petrus has 14 monasteries and churches, all built in the 14th century, along the ternicha and graza rivers. As of 2017, many monasteries are being restored. There are also plans to restore the city of Petrus and to establish a tourist complex that encompasses the city and the monastery.

Paraćin was first mentioned in 1375. That year, King Lazar of Serbia issued a charter granting the villages of Petrus to monasteries in the Petrus region. The name of the city seems to have been named after Parachin, a man who ferried people over the Tsurna River. The name of the city changed from Parachin to Parachin over the years.

With the construction and branching of the railway in the 19th century, and the passage of the most important road, the Chariglad Road, Paraćin became the main transport hub. Transportation was followed by various industries, so Paraćin became one of the largest industrial centers of the 19th and 20th centuries, and the most densely populated city at the end of the 19th century. From 1929 to 1941, Paraćin belonged to the Morababanovina of the Yugoslav kingdom.

By bus

 * Almost daily, there is a direct bus connection from Germany to Paraćin (www.touring.de).
 * Daily night bus to Herceg Novi.

By train

 * Daily direct connections to Bar (Montenegro), Sofia (Bulgaria) and Belgrade.

Do
Visit Unesco world heritage site of Studenica-monastery, located approx. 50 km south-west of Paraćin.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Paraćin


text:
Paracas

Paracas is a small town next door to a popular nature reserve that includes the Ballestas Islands on the Southern Coast of Peru.

Understand
Also called 'El Chaco', Paracas is also a very popular beach resort destination. Although the local beach leaves a lot to be desired, it is a few miles from a coastal reserve with miles of sandy shores.

Get in
You can drive to Paracas from Lima which will take around 4 hours. The other way to get there is by flying. The route is Lima-Pisco with the Airline LC Bucre.

Buses from Cruz del Sur and Oltursa have a bus station near Paracas and connections to Lima and Arequipa (and towns in between). Also there are minibuses to Ica, which are a bit cheaper and provide hotel-to-hotel service.

Cheaper bus companies only go to Pisco, from where you can get a taxi to Paracas, but you will have to compare prices, and after you choose one, you will have to find the company's terminal since there is no central bus terminal.

Peru Hop buses operate 7 days a week to Paracas from Lima. They have a daily connection from Huacachina and their buses also travel north from Arequipa via Nazca. Besides, they offer comfortable and safe trip, with free pickups and drop-offs being included for free. There are also free additional stops and tours on the way to Paracas.

Get around
The town itself is small enough to easily walk, although there's not much to see. To see the reserve, rent a car, take a tour, or rent a bike from any local business. It's about 5 km away but the road is not worth walking.

See
The town is very small, geared toward Peruvian and Latin American tourists with lots of restaurants/bars on the malecón. The beach is not so nice, the town is still recovering from an earthquake (a lot of new hotels and big resorts are being built).

The area, including the town but especially on the Ballestas Islands and Paracas reserve, is full of seabirds which are quite interesting to watch.

Do
Explore the Península de Paracas with a tour or on your own, for example on rented bike (which will cost around S/.30 per day). Or take a 2-hr boat tour to the Ballestas Islands for around S/.35. Peru Hop passengers can enjoy free Paracas National Reserve tour.

Go on a 2-day (or 1-day) tour with Casa Hogar Illary Ica, a project offering help to children and families affected by the earthquake in 2007, which they finance through tourism and volunteers. In a 2-day tour you get to see the Islas Ballestas, the Paracas national reserve, a laguna where you spend the night in tents along with a bonfire, get to do sand-surfing, taste pisco and wine grown by a local, organic farmer and spend some time at the project with the kids. It would be advisable to speak some Spanish.

Eat
Restaurants along the waterfront offer a 'menu del dia' for S./25 (Mar 2018) of soup, two small dishes (e.g. ceviche, causa, fried rice) and a lemonade. Their à-la-carte menus are much important expensive. Many offer 2-for-1 drinks.

Not much choice, mainly fish dishes. However, the fish is extremely fresh, usually caught that morning, and the Ceviche plates are excellent.

There are two small grocery stores in the center next to each other. Prices, quality, and selection are exceptionally poor by Peruvian standards; if you intend to cook for yourself you may wish to bring food from Lima or Arequipa.

Drink
Restaurants also serve drinks, but must charge a lot. Some have 'happy-hours' for mixed drinks, but the prices are very high.

You can get cheaper drinks in the two minimarkets near the plaza.

Sleep
Most options are really expensive, especially when you book them online. Better is to just show up and try to get a discounted price, which shouldn't be much of a problem in the low-season. Expect to pay around US$25-30 for a double in a two-star hotel close to the beach. Some places shut down in the low season.

Camping
A few areas in the Paracas reserve permit overnight camping. There are no facilities of any kind and the area is among the driest in the world, so be careful.

Stay safe
There isn't much to worry about in Paracas because there is not really a town like Mancora. There is no slum population, there is only beach houses and beach resorts.

title: Paracas


text:
Paracel Islands

The Paracel Islands (Chinese: 西沙群岛, Xīshā Qúndǎo; Vietnamese: Quần đảo Hoàng Sa) are an archipelago in the South China Sea, administered by China as part of Hainan Province, but also claimed by Taiwan and Vietnam. They are a minor destination for patriotic Chinese citizens, not yet open to visitors from other countries.

Understand

The Paracels now have a small population of Chinese residents, mainly fishermen, who are encouraged to move here in order to bolster the Chinese government's territorial claims. (Each resident receives a daily subsidy from the government.) The islands are visited by cruises from mainland China; they're seen as a patriotic destination for Chinese tourists eager to help defend their country's territory.

China has announced plans to open the islands to resort-style tourism. In the meantime, a greenification project is turning them into "green jewels deep in the South China Sea" with coconut trees and many other plants, and the Chinese government is rapidly building infrastructure.

The islands are organized as Sansha City (三沙市 Sānshā Shì) of Hainan Province, with the main settlement and administrative center on Yongxing Island (永兴岛 Yǒngxīng Dǎo, aka Woody Island). Sansha is China's smallest city by land area, but the largest by maritime territory.

This tropical archipelago, about one-third of the way from central Vietnam to the northern Philippines, is composed of 130 small coral islands and reefs divided into the northeast Amphitrite Group and the western Crescent Group. It is surrounded by productive fishing grounds and by potential oil and gas reserves.

It was occupied by the French in 1884, though the occuption was protested by the Chinese government. In 1932, French Indochina annexed the islands and set up a weather station on Pattle Island; maintenance was continued by its successor, South Vietnam. China has occupied the Paracel Islands since 1974, when its troops seized a South Vietnamese garrison occupying the western islands. Following the fall of Saigon in 1975, the South Vietnamese claim has been maintained by the unified Vietnam.

The weather is hot and humid.

Get in
Due to the sensitive security situation, China only allows Chinese nationals to visit the islands. Access is denied to foreign visitors and to residents of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.

If you're dying to set eyes on these islands, at best you might be able to get a glimpse of them from the air. Flights between the Pearl River Delta (Hong Kong, Guangzhou, and Shenzhen) and Kuala Lumpur or Singapore sometimes fly over them.

By boat
There are cruises to the Paracels from Sanya, but they're only open to mainland Chinese citizens. Most of the cruises last four or five days, and include visits to Yagong Island (鸭公岛), Quanfu Island (全富岛), and Yinyu Island (银屿).

Some clubs will also take a boat to get there, which is also the most free way to travel in Xisha.

Some supply ships can go to Yongxing Island, but you need the approval of relevant departments to enter the ship.

By plane
Mainland Chinese citizens can fly to Yongxing Island if they are invited by the military.

See
On Quanfu island and Yinyu Island, you can see sunny beaches and fishermen's houses. Yongxing island has many facilities, including marine museum and general forest.

Do
Tourists mainly fish, camp and dive on the island.

Eat
Yagong Island has a seafood restaurant.

Buy
Handicrafts (bracelets and necklaces) and seafood are sold by the fishermen on Yagong Island.

More standard shopping (convenience stores, etc.) can be found on Beijing Road, the main street in town on Yongxing Island.

Sleep
There is only one hotel on Yongxing island. Most of the passengers sleep on the ship.

Go next
三沙

title: Paracel Islands


text:
Paracho de Verduzco

Paracho de Verduzco (always referred to as simply Paracho) is a city of 21,000 people (2020) in central Michoacan.

Understand
It is an indigenous community of the Purépecha plateau rich in traditions, among them the artisan production of guitars and other stringed musical instruments. It also has a wide and varied gastronomy.

The town center has a kiosk and a market where toys and food are sold. In addition, Paracho has a House of Culture, which was a boarding school for indigenous youth from 1937 to 1972; it now hosts different exhibitions, workshops and all kinds of cultural events. During the International Guitar Fair, the Paracho House of Culture becomes the main venue for the different exhibitions and stalls selling artisan products, not only from Paracho itself, but also from towns in the surrounding region.

Get in
Drive north from Uruapan or take one of the frequent buses.

Get around
The core downtown area is easy to walk around by foot, and that's where most of the interesting luthiers can be found, but you'll want a taxi to visit outlying areas.

See
Thursday is market day, when people come in from nearby villages to buy and sell.

Do
Each August a 9-day guitar festival, the "Feria de La Guitarra", attracts world-class musicians and interested luthiers.

Buy
Paracho is known for guitar-making and is full of shops selling handmade guitars and other string instruments.

Eat
Some restaurants and the internal mercado serves lots of good food across from the plaza.

Sleep
There is a nice clean hotel on main street 2 blocks from plaza.

title: Paracho de Verduzco


text:
Paracuru

Paracuru is a beach town in the northeastern Brazilian state of Ceará.

Get in
90 km from Fortaleza by fairly good roads; a handful of daily buses by Pegasus take about 2,5 hours.

Get around
The town is small and walkable.

See

 * Freshwater lagoons
 * Dunes
 * Costa do Sol Poente
 * Restingas
 * Beaches

Do
Beaches are the main attraction. Careful with the rocks! Follow the locals into the water.
 * Kitesurfing is picking up as elsewhere along the coast of Ceará.
 * Surfing is popular, and there is a school and board rental on the beach.

Buy
Be aware that most shops close for lunch.

Drink
Paracuru has grown into a sort of regional nightlife hub on weekends, but occasionally some neighbouring town throws a party that dries out the local market. The square around the church has a string of pavement bars that keep going until after midnight.

Sleep
Several small inns and also some vacation houses for rent.

title: Paracuru


text:
Paradip

Paradip or Paradeep is a city in Jagatsinghpur District of Odisha (formerly known as Orissa). It is a major port town and industries are up and coming.

Understand
Located at a distance of from the capital city of Bhubaneshwar, the seaport of Paradeep is the oldest existing port of the state of Odisha.

The importance of Paradeep and its beach is manifold. Besides being an attractive tourist spot, the Paradeep beach in Odisha is also one of the most important commercial sea port of the country. Paradeep which is actually an estuary of the Mahanadi River, is one of the most popular beaches of Odisha. Covered by green forests and adorned with natural creeks and island, the Paradeep beach is a paradise for all marine lovers.

Paradeep attracts a number of tourists from all over the world and its shimmering golden beaches and aqua blue waters explain its popularity. The tropical sun and the long stretches of sandy beaches are the perfect place to soak oneself in the organic values of nature.

Get in
Paradeep is 125 km by road from Bhubaneswar Airport ; 94 km by road from Cuttack Railway Station. Paradip is connected by rail but most people prefer to travel via Bhubaneswar or Cuttack. Hired cars or taxis are easily available at both the places. Those who are not heading for a long stay can even come back to Bhubaneswar or Cuttack the same day. Alternatively, there are good hotels in Paradip for those who are planning a longer stay.

The important pilgrim centre Kendrapara is 65 km from Cuttack. Known as Tulasi Kshetra, it is famous for the temple of Lord Baladeva. A grand car festival is held here annually which draws a mammoth crowd. Also 60 km from Cuttack, Jhankad, houses the shrine of Goddess Sarala and the place is also associated with poet Sarala Das, the first epic poet of Odisha.

Get around
How to get there : All three have regular bus services from Cuttack.

On the confluence of the river Mahanadi and the Bay of Bengal, Paradeep is a beautiful beach. The beach is famous for its clear blue water, green forest, stones alongside the beach, a good marine drive and the biggest port. Visitor can spend some hours frolicking in the lovely indigo water. The scenic location of the beach gives an ideal destination for tour.

Touring Seasons:

November to March

Beach Accessibility

Airlines: The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar just 125km away from Paradeep; from there you can easily fetch a vehicle or a bus. Rail Lines: The nearest rail station is Cuttack, 94 km away from Paradeep. From here you can pick a bus to Paradeep. Bus Lines: NH-5A links Paradeep, so any one can easily come to Paradeep from major cities of Odisha, it also connect 3 major tourist towns of Udayagiri, Lalitgiri and Ratnagiri, all within a 100km.

Fascinating Places near the Paradeep Beach :

Temple of Baladeva

Kendrapara, known as 'Tulasi Kshetra', is famous for the temple of Lord Baladeva.

Jhankad

Situated 60km from Cuttack, Jhankad popular for the temple of Goddess Sarala and the place is associated with poet Sarala Das, the first epic poet of Odisha. A grand car festival is held here annually which attracts a vast crowd.

Bhitarkanika National Park

The seashore area has been a crocodile sanctuary since 1975.Bhitarkanika National Park, sprawled over 367 km2, is home to variety of animals. The exciting forest is covered by mangrove s criss-crossed by rivers and creeks.

Gahirmatha

Known for sea turtles and water monitor lizards, Gahirmatha beach has rare white crocodiles. It is also a Park for deer and migratory birds. The place is now the nesting place of the olive Ridley sea turtles.

See

 * Hanuman Temple
 * Jagganath Temple
 * Light House (You can visit in the Evening Only).
 * Marine Aquarium
 * Neheru Bunglow, Sea Beach (12 km from Paradip).
 * Paradeep Port
 * Sea Beach
 * Smurti Udyan

Do
Oceanic Activities

You can enjoy here by sunbathing and strolling.

The attractions in Paradeep are not restricted to its beaches alone. There are a number of places that one can visit around Paradeep, these include:

 * Temple of Baladeva
 * Gahirmatha beach
 * Jhankad
 * Bhitarkanika National Park

Cuttack and Bhubaneshwar are respectively the nearest railhead and Airport of Paradeep. Reaching Paradeep from any part of Odisha is not a problem as it is well connected by road. The National Highway number 5A passes through Paradeep and links the sea side resort to 3 important tourist spots of the state, Udayagiri, Lalitgiri and Ratnagiri. The roads along the coast line is simply fascinating which makes the experience of traveling to Paradeep as ecstatic as the destination itself.

Buy
Fish & Prawn.

Eat
Seafood such as fish, crab and prawns are a common part of the local cuisine. Rasagula is a popular sweet in Paradip.

Drink
Do not forget to drink Paradip lassi (with coconut as one of the ingredient) from Badapadia, famously known as Gaveskar Lassi

Sleep
In Paradeep you can accommodate yourself in budget hotels or in lodges; otherwise you can stay in Bhubaneswar or Cuttack and take a trip to here.
 * Hotel Aristocrat (Tel. 22091-94)
 * Hotel Aristocrat, Paradip, Telephone +91 6722 222091/ 222092/ 223721, Fax +91 6722 222426, Tariff ₹550 – ₹1,200.
 * Hotel Golden Anchor, Madhuban (Tel. 22647, 22648)
 * Hotel Golden Anchor, Telephone +91 6722 222647/222648 /221028, Fax +91 6722 222645, E-Mail:golden23@sify.com, Tariff ₹800-₹1,450.
 * Hotel Golden Palace Kendrapara
 * Hotel Paradeep International (22547, 22951).
 * Hotel Paradeep International, Telephone +91 6722 222986/222985, Fax +91 6722 222454/222547, E-Mail: pdpinternational@sify.com, Tariff ₹150-₹1,200.
 * Panthanivas, Odisha Tourism Development Corporation (OTDC), Telephone +91 6722 222275, Tariff ₹380-₹750.
 * Paradeep Port Trust's Nehru Bungalow and Madhuban Guest House. Contact the Port Trust Chairman for booking.
 * Rajshree Lodge (Tel: 23073) and Aram Lodge (Tel : 22319)
 * Shrikrishna Lodge (Tel. 22571)
 * Santosh Lodge
 * Tulasi Lodge (Tel: 22498)
 * Rajshree Lodge (Tel: 23073) and Aram Lodge (Tel : 22319)
 * Shrikrishna Lodge (Tel. 22571)
 * Santosh Lodge
 * Tulasi Lodge (Tel: 22498)

Go next
Exciting moments can also be had at the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary. Sprawled over 672 square kilometres, it has a variety of animals in its mangrove forests criss-crossed by rivers and creeks. Known for crocodiles, sea-turtles (on the Gahirmatha beach) and water monitor lizards, it has rare white crocodiles. It is also a sanctuary for deer and migratory birds. One can also see 10th-11th century temples, sculptures, and mud-forts and pottery.

Accommodation is available at the Forest Inspection Bungalow and Interpretation Centre at Dangmal and Forest Rest House at Ekakula on Gahirmatha beach. Contact Divisional Forest Officer, Rajnagar, Dist, Kendrapara.

You may go to Bhitarkanika via Chandbali and Rajnagar which are 160 km and 100 km respectively from Cuttack. Dangmal, the base is three hours from both Chandbali and Rajnagar by motor launch. For motor launch, contact the DFO, Rajnagar, or Assistant Director, Inland Water Transport, Chandbali.

Assistance : Tourist Office, Cuttack, Tel: 612225.

title: Paradip


text:
Paradise

There's more than one place called Paradise:

Antarctica

 * Paradise Bay - see Antarctica
 * Paradise Harbour - see Antarctic Peninsula

Australia

 * Surfers Paradise - on the Gold Coast of Queensland

Bahamas

 * Paradise Island - near Nassau

Canada

 * Little Paradise - in Newfoundland and Labrador
 * Paradise, a town in the St. John's Metropolitan Area of Newfoundland which borders St. John's, Mount Pearl, Portugal Cove and Conception Bay South.

Pakistan

 * Paradise Point - in Karachi/West

United States of America

 * Paradise (California) — a town in California; burned in the Camp Fire in November 2018
 * Paradise (Michigan) — a small lakeside town near Tahquamenon Falls in the Upper Peninsula
 * Paradise (Nevada) — an unincorporated town that is effectively part of Las Vegas
 * Paradise Valley — in Greater Phoenix, Arizona
 * Sportsman's Paradise — in Louisiana

title: Paradise


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Paradise and Whitefish Bay

Paradise is an unincorporated community on Whitefish Bay. This article covers a broad but sparsely-populated rural area at the eastern end of Lake Superior on Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Understand

Paradise is on the northeastern portion of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, on the western side of Whitefish Bay, Lake Superior. It is a tourism gateway to the Tahquamenon Falls and Whitefish Point.

All vessels entering or leaving Lake Superior must sail past Whitefish Point, also known as the "Graveyard of the Great Lakes", 11 miles outside of town, one of the easternmost points on the Lake Superior coastline. The numerous shipwrecks in the area include the very first ship known to sail on Superior, the 60-foot trading vessel Invincible, which was lost in 1816.

Crisp Point
Crisp Point Light Station, about 14 miles (23 km) west of Whitefish Point, was one of five U.S. Life-Saving Service Stations along the coast of Lake Superior between Munising and Whitefish Point. Visitors should be aware of weather, especially snow storms. The Crisp Point Historical Society advises "This is not really a trip, It is more like an adventure" and cautions not to rely on GPS.

title: Paradise and Whitefish Bay


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Paradise Island

Paradise Island is a small island just off of Nassau, Bahamas. It is dominated by the Las Vegas-style Atlantis resort, which is responsible for an amazing 11% of the Bahamas' GNP.

Get in
Paradise Island is connected to New Providence Island (Nassau) by two bridges (one incoming, one outgoing). There's an entrance fee of $2 per vehicle.

There is also a ferry from Paradise Island to the main land. The schedule for the ferry is somewhat regular, but they try to wait until it is filled before departure.

If you're sailing your own yacht, you can dock at Hurricane Hole Marina, which has 90 slips for yachts that can be over 200 ft in length.

Get around
Most people get around the island by taxi, plenty of which can always be found hanging around outside the resort entrances. Since this island is small, many choose to walk. There are car companies available for those who have ether large parties, have trouble getting around, or like to make a grand entrance. There's Bahamas Experience and Majestic Tours Unlimited Hillside Manor.

See

Sights within Paradise Island are concentrated almost exclusively in the Atlantis resort, and are accessible only to resort guests or to those who rent a day room for $220 and up (usable by a maximum of 4 people). While it's not too hard to sneak in even without a pass, the guards keep an eye out for visitors without pass bracelets and the odds of getting busted are high.

 * The Dig, Atlantis. As you may know, Atlantis was rumored to be a lavish island that existed many, many years ago that happened to submerge underwater. While no one can actually prove that it ever existed or where, people like to believe that maybe it was located in The Bahamas where this resort now resides. The dig is an underwater tour of the supposed ruins. There are several logoons that house sharks and manta rays including The Predator Lagoon as well as The Mayan Temple Shark Lagoon.

Do

 * Watch a Junkanoo Rush on Friday and Saturday evenings at Marina Village.
 * Take a walk To the Versailles Gardens and French Cloister. About a 15 minute walk from the Atlantis resort. The beautifully manicured gardens are part of the One and Only Ocean Club of "Casino Royale" fame but they don't mind visitors. Its the perfect place to have a picnic or a photo shoot. If you have a few extra minutes walk north through the Ocean Club and find the beach access. Walking back to your hotel along the beach is a great way to spend an evening.

Buy

 * Marina Village, next to Atlantis. A shopping street built according to plans originally made for rebuilding Bay Street, the main shopping street in Nassau.  A confection of pretty pastel houses, it's very pretty indeed and well worth a stroll, but the shops within are exceedingly pricey — you can find most of what they sell in Nassau at much lower prices.

Eat

 * Dune, Ocean Club. Good food, good service, great views and an incredible price tag: a fruit platter costs $22 and a bottle of water $10.  But if you want to eat where James Bond did...  Open to non-guests, just tell the gate attendant that you're eating there.

Drink

 * Dune Bar, Ocean Club. If you want to check out the Ocean Club without paying through the nose for a room or dinner, this is your cheapest option.  Open through the day and great sea views onto the beach.  Drinks from $10, or go for the Royale Martini at $15.
 * Hurricane Hole, just east of the bridge (in the marina). Officially the Waterfront Bar and Grill, this is an un-touristy outdoor drinking joint frequented by a motley mix of locals and yachties from the marina.  Very generously poured rum-based drinks from $3.50.

Sleep

Stay safe

Signs around the Ocean Club warn of the danger of getting bonked on the head by an errant golf ball, which is indeed probably the main security risk on this heavily policed patch of prime property. By Bahamian law, all beaches are public property, but you can expect to get hassled if you go as much as one step on to private manicured lawns.

Go next

 * Nassau, just across the bridge
 * Exuma, accessible on day trips from the ferry terminal

title: Paradise Island


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Paraguay

Paraguay is a country of big rivers, green landscapes, folklore and a rich indigenous culture in central South America. It's relatively small compared to its neighbors, with an area of 406,752 km2: about the same size as Germany. Paraguay is lacking in world-famous attractions, and tourist-oriented establishments are few and far between. But those visitors who do come will be rewarded with a great experience of South America: colonial history, ruins of missions, vast wilderness, and a strong mix of European and indigenous cultures.

Cities

 * - the capital and largest city of Paraguay, situated right on the Argentina-Paraguay border. Almost 40% of the population call this city home and the city is brimming with colonial-era buildings, museums, botanical gardens, and religious sites.
 * - this busy border city is also Paraguay's gateway to the Iguazu Falls
 * and its Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarangue
 * - the departmental seat of Boquerón, founded as a Mennonite colony
 * and its Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarangue
 * - the departmental seat of Boquerón, founded as a Mennonite colony

Other destinations

 * (New London) – a late 19th century Australian socialist settlement in the southern part of the country. It was renamed to Nueva Londres in 1957. It is famous with tourists for its yearly Fiesta del Tujú on December 25th.
 * – the liveliest resort town of Paraguay, east of the capital.
 * – a small village near Encarnación famous for the Jesuit ruins Santísima of Trinidad de Paraná, the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Paraguay.

Understand
Paraguay is often overlooked as a travel destination, even though it has been experiencing a steady increase in tourist arrivals. The majority of tourists visiting Paraguay in 2022 came from neighbouring Argentina, accounting for 76% of all visitors. Brazilians often come over to Paraguayan border towns to shop for imported goods.

Although the country is one of South America's breadbaskets, Paraguay has historically not been a wealthy country; a quarter of the population lives below the poverty line and there's an incredibly wide gap between the rich and the poor. Decades of political instability, as well as a young and largely unskilled work force have stunted prospects of growth and development.

Most Paraguayans, save the upper class, may not have a lot of material wealth and possessions, but they strive to be happy and content with what they have. Tranquility (known as tranquilo pa) is one value Paraguayans cherish the most. Nature is the heart and soul of most Paraguayans; they find absolute solace and contentment in it.

A major producer of beef, so do not be surprised to find cattle eating grass just a few centimetres from the highways, especially in the Chaco region and Misiones Department. Paraguay is the world's fifth largest exporter of soya beans, so expect to see hundreds of square kilometres of soya plantations especially in the southeast, east and northeast regions.

History
The Guaraní were the most significant indigenous group inhabiting what is now Eastern Paraguay, living as semi-nomadic hunters who also practised subsistence agriculture. The Chaco region was home to other groups of indigenous tribes such as the Guaycurú and Payaguá, who survived by hunting, gathering and fishing.

In the 16th century Paraguay, formerly called "The Giant Province of the Indies", was born as a result of the encounter of Spanish conquerors with the native indigenous groups. The Spaniards started the colonization period which lasted for three centuries. Since the foundation of Asunción in 1537, Paraguay has managed to keep a lot of its indigenous character and identity. Nowadays, the mestizos (Spanish and Amerindian) account for more than 80% of the country's 6.6 million inhabitants and Guarani is, side by side with Spanish, the country's official language.

In the past, Franciscan and Jesuit missions mingled with the Guaranis' dream of Yvy maraë´y, a land without evil, and produced singular societies. The ruins of the Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Parana and Jesus de Tavarangue, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and several villages throughout the country, are witnesses to that peaceful past. On 15 May 1811, a revolution ended the Spanish colonial rule and this day is celebrated as Paraguay's Independence Day.

Shortly after independence came the paranoid dictatorship of Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia (1814–1840) who, convinced of plots to kill him, declared that the buildings in Asunción had to be low enough so that he could see who was on the roof while riding his horse and that at every street corner he should be able to see in all four directions so that would-be assassins would have nowhere to hide. The destruction of colonial buildings that didn't fit in with this scheme robbed Asunción of some architectural gems.

But Paraguay also has a history of wars, having fought with all its neighbours. It was one of the richest countries in the mid-19th century (the only one in America to have railways at that time) before the disastrous 1865-70 War of the Triple Alliance. Paraguay was invaded by the allied forces of Argentina, Brazil, and Uruguay and after 5 years of heavy fighting and utter destruction, the country surrendered. The result was the loss of two-thirds of all adult males and a great part of its territory.

A unique event was the scene of the first attempt at Communism when 700 people sailed from Sydney, Australia, in 1893 to found "New Australia." Two-thirds of the immigrants eventually returned to Australia but around 2,000 Paraguayans can trace their heritage to Australia.

To complete the fighting with its neighbors, in the 1930s another war broke out, the Chaco War of 1932-35 engaged Paraguay with Bolivia over the possession of the Chaco region. When the war ended, large and economically important areas of the Chaco that belonged to Paraguay were given to Bolivia as part of the peace treaty of 1938.

After World War II, Paraguay received many immigrants. New colonies of Germans, Russians, Italians, Ukrainians, Japanese and Mennonites were established in different parts of the country.

The dictator Alfredo Stroessner was overthrown in 1989 after 35 years of autocracy, and democratically elected governments have ruled since then. Modern Paraguay is largely based upon political uncertainty and economic hardship. Moving to a more modern market economy has increased prosperity but also inequality. While Asuncion is filled with new economic prospects and construction, much of the country remains underdeveloped, with poor infrastructure.

Geography
With a total surface area of 406,752 km², Paraguay is divided by the Paraguay River into two well-differentiated natural regions: the Eastern or Oriental Region and the Western or Chaco Region, each one with their own fauna, flora, and particular characteristics.

Although Paraguay is landlocked, the country is watered by numerous rivers, streams, and lakes, which are all part of the Rio de la Plata river basin. The two principal rivers are the river Paraguay, which divides the country in two, and the river Paraná, which forms the frontier with Paraná state in Brazil and with Corrientes and Misiones provinces in Argentina.

Overall Paraguay is a quite flat country; while its western neighbours Argentina and Bolivia include mountains higher than 6,000 m above sea level, the highest point in Paraguay is Cerro Tres Kandú with a height of 842 m.

Climate
The Paraguay climate is generally hot for most of the year. The fact is that the Tropic of Capricorn passes through the city of Belén in Northern Paraguay, dividing the country into a tropical area to the north and a temperate one to the south. The hottest time of year is from November to February when daytime temperatures can peak around and high atmospheric pressure makes just walking along the street a tough task.

Winter (June to September) is pleasantly warm during the day (around to ), generally sunny and dry but frequently cool at night with the occasional morning frost. January is the hottest month with an average maximum temperature of, and July is the coldest with a minimum average of.

Eastern Paraguay can be very humid, while western Paraguay (the Chaco) is dry. There is no real rainy season, but from September to November electric storms become more frequent and travelling off-road can be more difficult. The climate generally follows the prevailing winds, viento sur (southerly winds) bringing cooler temperatures from Patagonia and viento norte (northern winds) bringing hotter weather from the tropics.

People
Paraguay, like its neighbours, is a 'melting pot' of cultures. The indigenous presence here is prominent; most of the population is of mestizo origin, and Guaraní is an official language along with Spanish. Major European ancestries include Spanish and Italian.

Paraguay has a sizeable German population, and the Chaco is known for its well established Mennonite communities. Alfredo Stroessner, one of Paraguay's presidents, had German roots.

Tourism
Most travellers "of" the beaten track will not enjoy Paraguay nor recommend it to others. It can certainly not keep track with sights like Torres del Paine, Salar de Uyuni, El Calafate or Machu Picchu in South America. However, for people disgusted with the commercialisation of travelling and in the search of the journey to themselves and the authentic side of South America, Paraguay offers many gems, a laid-back and inexpensive journey, and a way to the warm heart of South American people.

Visitor information

 * Tourism website

Visa-free entry
Citizens of Mercosur member states ― Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru ― enjoy freedom of movement in Paraguay. They can just enter with their National ID card.

All adult visitors from South American countries, except the Guyanas, may enter Paraguay with their National ID card. All other visitors travelling to Paraguay are required to carry a valid passport. Visa-free access for visitors from the European Union, Latin American countries, as well as South Korea (30 days), Japan, Israel, South Africa and Taiwan. All tourists are granted a tourist visa for 90 days.

In case you leave the country via one of the many land borders, an exit stamp is not necessarily required if you travel visa-free and receive a proper entry stamp in the following country. On (re-)entry into Paraguay, no one will check your existing stamps for completeness. Also, in case you visit Ciudad del Este, you might travel forth and back between the border for various reasons, hence just having entry stamps of both countries (Brazil and Paraguay) is convenient. Entering/leaving through one of the many land borders can be a good way of leaving the country in case you accidentally overstayed.

Visa entry
Visas are no longer required for citizens of Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Canada. This change is valid until October of 2024, as part of a plan to reactivate tourism. Travellers of all other nationalities should check the visa requirements for their country with the nearest Paraguayan Embassy before travelling to Paraguay.

Except for the countries named above, visas must be obtained in advance through the Paraguayan Embassy or Consulate, as they are not available upon entry to the country.

Land borders
Paraguay has many land border crossings and allows for easy entry from Bolivia, Brazil and Argentina if you have a valid visa or can enter visa-free. Border formalities are sometimes not carried out at the border but at the next bigger city/town, like in Concepción coming from Bolivia or Brazil, or in Mariscal Estigarribia coming from Bolivia or Argentina. Otherwise Formosa to Asunción, Ciudad del Este and Encarnación are straight forward.

By plane
Although it is in the centre of South America, there isn't an abundance of flights. The only intercontinental flight is the four-times a week Air Europa's offer from Madrid Barajas to Asuncion, so most overseas travellers must change planes either in São Paulo (for those coming from North America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia), Buenos Aires or Santiago (for those coming from Australia and the Pacific), and Lima or Panama City (for those coming from Central America and the Caribbean). The main international airport is Silvio Pettirosi  10 km outside the capital, Asunción.

The following airlines offer direct flights to Paraguay:

By train
There is a train shuttle between Encarnación, Paraguay and Posadas, Argentina. The service connects both sides of the international border in 10 minutes crossing the Paraná River through the San Roque González de Santa Cruz International Bridge.

By bus
Bus service is available to and from a wide range of South American cities. You can take a bus from Santiago, Chile; São Paulo, Brazil; Buenos Aires, Argentina; Cordoba, Argentina; Santa Cruz, Bolivia; Montevideo, Uruguay; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Buses are very modern and some buses have seats that fully recline into beds. In Spanish they are called coche-cama. Semi-cama recline most of the way.

The bus to and from Bolivia crosses the Chaco. Only one bus company does the trip, from Santa Cruz to Asunción, with possible stops at Villamontes (Bolivia) or a few kilometers of Filadelfia (Paraguay) but typically for the same price. Beware that tourists should bargain, with minimum prices of US$45 (payable in local currency or in USD). The trip takes at least a full day, and easily more. The bus coming from Santa Cruz passes Villamontes at about 02:00.

The bus from Ciudad Del Este (Paraguay) at the border with Brazil is typically cheaper for going to Rio or São Paulo than the bus going from Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil). To go to Puerto Iguazú (Argentina) many city buses cross Brazil (without Brazilian border control) into Argentina for only AR$10 or ₲10,000. Best visit the border in advance to get an exit stamp for Paraguay because not all buses make a stop, otherwise ask before jumping on a bus.

By boat
Two boats travel regularly from Concepción up the Paraguay River to Bahía Negra (near the Bolivian border) or Fuerte Olimpo (mostly for Brazil) once a week and back stopping at all Paraguayan ports allowing for entry from/to Brazil and Bolivia. These boats were not designed to carry a great number of passengers, but have private cabins for up to 4 people. So, expect a sticky crowded experience, but you can buy just about anything on board, even cold beer.

From Bolivia you need to organise transport between Puerto Suárez and Puerto Busch at the southern end of RN4, and from there a boat to/from the Paraguayan side, most like using the Estación Biológica “Los Tres Gigantes” option, or directly to/from Bahía Negra. However, there seems to be a proper trail through the jungle to Bahía Negra (~10 km) from the most southern corner of Bolivia (in this region). Check out the maps (OpenStreetMap) and satellite pictures.

By bus
Buses, also called Colectivos in Paraguay, are the most common public transport. There are many companies running different lines.

When leaving from Asunción, the web page of the bus terminal has information about ticket prices for all destinations and bus companies as well as departure times. The site is in Spanish only and there's no information about travel times nor schedules for trips towards Asuncion.

Some intercity bus companies include:
 * Nuestra Señora de la Asunción
 * La Encarnacena

By taxi
Taxis are expensive compared to other prices in Paraguay, and in Asunción, the fares are determined by the meter. Tipping in taxis is not customary among locals (although drivers do appreciate it). Expect to pay a small surcharge on top of the fare if you are taking a taxi late in the evening, or on a Sunday.

Outside Asunción there are no meters so make sure you decide on a price before you get in. Bargaining on a price may be useful, as tourists have been asked for US$10 for a five-minute ride. To prevent any disputes, always ask your hotel concierge how much the real cost of the fare should be.

By car
There are highways connecting all the major regions of Paraguay, but most of them are one lane each way. You may hit toll booths along the way.

Police may pull you over for any reason and will expect bribes. Locals may say that the most common way to avoid giving too much money on the bribes requested by the 'polícia caminera' (road police) is by giving them a small guarani note while shaking their hands when they stop your car. Also, it is advised that, when they ask you, play dumb until they let you go with a warning and do not admit to travelling through Paraguay for the first time. Refrain from handing out bribes, known as coimas, since it is only harmful for the country. Tell them that you don't carry money and that you weren't aware that was not allowed. If you have committed something wrong, you should pay the fine and always ask for a receipt.

You will probably only face this kind of problem with the police on the country roads. These problems do not generally occur in any of the wealthier areas of the major cities where you can keep a somewhat 'nicer' relationship with the police.

By thumb
Contrary to expectations, tugged between Northern Argentina, Bolivia and Western Brazil, which are not very popular with hitch-hikers, travelling by thumb in Paraguay is possible and surprisingly easy for tourists, even though not generally common. Along the main roads with much traffic, you will always find the odd helper that takes you along the way, even couples and women. Often, you will not have to wait longer than 15 min, but barely an hour. Hitch-hiking can be considerably faster than taking the bus around Paraguay that stops every 5 km to pick up/off. Nevertheless, on rural roads traffic can be very light, and often people use motorbikes or cover only short distances, thus hesitant to pick you up. But you can always try and opt for the bus if the thumb does not work.

Do not expect big conversations with locals like in Southern Argentina: the attitude of people is more like in Chile. But Paraguay offers far better access to passing cars than Chile with its major and complicated highways in the center.

On foot and navigation
If you are travelling on foot, by thumb, by bicycle or by car, it is important to have a proper and reliable map with you. In addition, using GPS navigation adds an extra layer of safety, both in cities as well as the countryside. For reliable (offline) maps and comprehensive trails and map information, consult OpenStreetMap, which is also used by this travel guide, and by many mobile Apps like OsmAnd or Mapy.cz. Or just download the according GPX or KML files through Waymarked Trails for such trails on OpenStreetMap. (Note, you just need to change the OpenStreetMap relation ID to download the GPX or KML files through the same link.)

Talk
Both Spanish and Guaraní are official. Most people in Paraguay speak Spanish and use of English is very limited. Outside of Asunción and big cities, Guaraní is all you will hear. Due to the extensive use of Guaraní, even those who have managed to learn Spanish do not always speak it very well.

In Paraguay, Guaraní is almost always spoken as a mix of Guarani and Spanish, known as Jopara, meaning "mixed" in Guarani. The number system in Guaraní is rarely used, and is almost always replaced with the Spanish number system.

In Paraguay vos is used instead of tu. There is a slight change in conjugation but not big enough that you won't be understood using tu. This vos is not the same as vosotros. Stems do not change in verbs when using "vos", and the ending is always stressed. For example "tienes" changes to "tenés", "puedes" changes to "podés", "vienes" changes to "venís" etc.

In the northern and eastern parts of Paraguay, Portuguese is spoken widely. In some places, Nueva Esperanza (80% Portuguese speaking), Katuetè (60%) the majority speak Portuguese, almost always the result of Paraguayan-born, or first-generation Brazilian immigrants. There are many cases of Paraguayans, who were born during the era of Brazilian immigration and who speak only Portuguese at home, although also fluent in Guaraní and Spanish.

There are also a number of Mennonite communities throughout Paraguay where Low German and standard German are spoken.

See

 * The capital Asunción hosts a large part of the country's sights.
 * In Trinidad you can see Paraguay's only UNESCO World Heritage Site; the Jesuit Missions of La Santisima Trinidad de Paraná and Jesus de Tavarangue.
 * There is a well in the city of Santani (San Pedro) that does not go dry. The local museum also contains a large snakeskin.
 * The Itaipu dam near Ciudad del Este which is the largest hydroelectric dam in the world, measured by generated power. Contrary to the Brazilian side, all tours to the dam are free, just some require early registration.
 * Also in Ciudad del Este (actually in Presidente Franco just south), you can find the impressive Salto Del Monday waterfall, and while not as large as the nearby Iguazu Falls, but definitely worth a visit.
 * Encarnación is a laid-back city with the beautiful San Jose (river) Beach and a relaxing promenade where you can just hang around for a couple of days and enjoy the local bar culture.
 * The Catedral Virgen de Caacupé in Caacupé is a beautiful church with a tower viewpoint not far from Asunción.
 * The Iglesia San Buenaventura de Yaguarón (or Templo de San Buenaventure) in Yaguarón inhibits impressive baroque wood carvings inside a rather unconventional, although typical for this region, church (closed Mondays).

Do

 * Asunción Paraguay.jpg
 * Contrary to Argentina and Bolivia, national parks and historical sites run by the government are generally free or cheap: the three Jesuit sites near Trinidad, for instance, are just €4. On the other hand, some parks are run privately and demand steep entrance and accommodation prices, like the Mbaracayú Forest Nature Reserve. However, they might cater more specifically for tourists with the intention to deliver "results" and could be worth it.
 * Contrary to Argentina and Bolivia, national parks and historical sites run by the government are generally free or cheap: the three Jesuit sites near Trinidad, for instance, are just €4. On the other hand, some parks are run privately and demand steep entrance and accommodation prices, like the Mbaracayú Forest Nature Reserve. However, they might cater more specifically for tourists with the intention to deliver "results" and could be worth it.
 * Contrary to Argentina and Bolivia, national parks and historical sites run by the government are generally free or cheap: the three Jesuit sites near Trinidad, for instance, are just €4. On the other hand, some parks are run privately and demand steep entrance and accommodation prices, like the Mbaracayú Forest Nature Reserve. However, they might cater more specifically for tourists with the intention to deliver "results" and could be worth it.
 * Contrary to Argentina and Bolivia, national parks and historical sites run by the government are generally free or cheap: the three Jesuit sites near Trinidad, for instance, are just €4. On the other hand, some parks are run privately and demand steep entrance and accommodation prices, like the Mbaracayú Forest Nature Reserve. However, they might cater more specifically for tourists with the intention to deliver "results" and could be worth it.
 * Contrary to Argentina and Bolivia, national parks and historical sites run by the government are generally free or cheap: the three Jesuit sites near Trinidad, for instance, are just €4. On the other hand, some parks are run privately and demand steep entrance and accommodation prices, like the Mbaracayú Forest Nature Reserve. However, they might cater more specifically for tourists with the intention to deliver "results" and could be worth it.
 * Contrary to Argentina and Bolivia, national parks and historical sites run by the government are generally free or cheap: the three Jesuit sites near Trinidad, for instance, are just €4. On the other hand, some parks are run privately and demand steep entrance and accommodation prices, like the Mbaracayú Forest Nature Reserve. However, they might cater more specifically for tourists with the intention to deliver "results" and could be worth it.
 * Contrary to Argentina and Bolivia, national parks and historical sites run by the government are generally free or cheap: the three Jesuit sites near Trinidad, for instance, are just €4. On the other hand, some parks are run privately and demand steep entrance and accommodation prices, like the Mbaracayú Forest Nature Reserve. However, they might cater more specifically for tourists with the intention to deliver "results" and could be worth it.

Events

 * Areté Guazú (Big Festival) - a three-day indigenous celebration held between February/March in many locations, including Filadelfia and Mariscal Estigarribia.
 * Expo Rodeo Trébol - the largest expo and rodeo event of the Chaco, held mid-August in Loma Plata.
 * Transchaco rally - major sports event that affects the Central Chaco Region during late September.

Money
The currency is the guaraní (ISO 4217 code: PYG), denoted by the symbol ₲. The abbreviation "GS." is generally used locally, and it is used in Wikivoyage articles as well.

Banknotes are issued in denominations of ₲2,000, ₲5,000, ₲10,000, ₲20,000, ₲50,000 and ₲100,000. Coins are issued in denominations of ₲50, ₲100, ₲500 and ₲1,000.

Always check the exchange rate quotations on the internet or several major newspapers before exchanging money. However, since summer 2015 exchange rates to the US dollar have been quite stable.

ATMs
ATMs are widespread, even in places like Vallemí. Most banks (Banco Continental, BBVA/B24, Regional, Vision Banco, Itaú, Banco Familiar, Banco Interfisa, etc.) however belong to the same network (Red Infonet) and charge GS.25,000 for each withdrawal with a credit card, but allow amounts up to GS.1,500,000. BNF uses a different network but is not reliably working with Visa. You might be lucky with an international bank, but they are hard to find or just do not exist.

Money exchange
Never exchange money with the vendors on the street. They usually have very bad rates and cannot be trusted.

In Asunción, there are many regular cambios, which offer quite competitive rates for US dollars and other foreign currencies, with the exchange rate being barely 1% off the interbank exchange rate. This way, exchanging money instead of using credit cards and ATMs is preferable. However, carrying too much (foreign) money is not a good idea. However, if you are coming from Uruguay, it might be a good idea to use the ability of their ATMs to withdraw US dollars for this purpose. Otherwise, in Paraguay, you will always have to withdraw larger amounts of cash with ATMs to keep the fees low.

Prices
Paraguay has been ranked by several research studies as the cheapest country in the world, measured through Purchasing Power Parity. Prices in Paraguay are very low and a budget traveller will be able to get by on as little as US$7-14 a day and even less if camping. A clean, single hotel room out of Asunción should not cost more than US$10.

However, when travelling on budget level, this cheapness is not regularly achievable. Sometimes there are no hostels around and one has to settle with a little more expensive hospedaje room (€5-10) in remote regions. Also, bus travel is generally more expensive than in Bolivia due to the fewer competing bus companies. This can increase travel costs and make Paraguay a more expensive destinations than Bolivia or Peru. Nevertheless, if you prefer hitch-hiking and have a tent, it is another story and travelling in Paraguay can be very cheap—such options are less feasible in Bolivia or Peru.

Tipping
Service charges are included with the bill, and tipping is uncommon.

Shopping
Paraguay has a very rich and diverse craftmanship, everything from silver filigree (Luque) to cotton fine lace in the form of Ñanduti (Itaugua) is available. Also leather goods with local “repujado” embellishments (Atyra) and ao poi, encaje yu embroidery. Ceramic (Ita) and weavery is also very popular, cheap and beautiful. Leather football balls are sold, and hand made in the town of Quiindy.

Bargaining
Bargaining is not generally common or even necessary. For example, buying a bus ticket, most will state the same price. When boarding a bus outside of terminals though, e.g. along the highway, you can ask for a lower price. Even though, no one generally does that, they will most likely still take you along for the 10 or 20,000 guaranis less, if you ask. Also, with hostels you might ask for a lower price passing on the breakfast. Often, instead of demanding a lower price, just saying that you only got this or that amount left, does work as well. Or if Chipa is GS.2,000, asking 3 for GS.5,000 can work. However, at the market you generally need big amounts to get a discount: no one will bargain for 12 eggs.

Eat

Paraguayan food is one of the most diverse in South America. Paraguayans usually enjoy typical food several times a week all year round. You'll find much of the standard South American cuisine here with some Brazilian influence as well. Paraguayan food isn't particularly spicy, so those who can't tolerate spices won't have problems here.

Paraguay has a tradition for beef which is normally good quality and cheap. Grilled meat (asado) is the thing to eat. Pasta is also popular as are the street stalls selling panchos (hot-dogs), hamburgers, empanadas and similar fast-food. Vegetables, salad and other types of meat are not that common but available. In restaurants you normally get manioc as a side dish for free (similar to bread in other countries).

Local specialties
You must try the Paraguayan traditional food, which includes dishes like the following:

 * Chipa-a bread baked in an outdoor oven or "tatacua", usually made out of mandioca (manioc) flour. Mandioca is often substituted for potatoes. Mandioca, or Mandi´o in Guarani is similar to a potato, and is normally eaten boiled but can be fried. It is eaten almost everyday by Paraguayans, and many have it growing on their land.
 * Mbeju is a mandioca starch and Paraguayan cheese based flatbread.
 * Pastel madi'o is a manioc pastry stuffed with "So'o ku'í" or minced meat.
 * Sopa Paraguaya is a form of corn bread are two of the most well known. Sopa means soup, so it is an unusual experience to be actually eating a solid soup, probably the only one in the world.
 * Tortillas in Paraguay are different than in other places in Latin America. It is more like a fried dough (made with Paraguayan cheese).
 * Payagua mascada (Guarani for chewing gum for dogs but has nothing to do with that) is a tortilla also made with manioc and beef (high in proteins and calories).
 * Try Sopa So'o if you get the chance, which is Paraguayan cornbread with bits of pieces of meat often marinated with garlic and lime.
 * Pira caldo is a soup consisting of catfish, tomatoes, fat and spices
 * Asado (BBQ) is great, and prices are quite reasonable - ₲20,000 will get you an all-you-can-eat buffet at many nice places. ₲5,000 is enough to pay for a hamburger.
 * Also highly popular are empanadas (meat/egg stuffed in a pastry and baked) and milanesa (breaded and fried chicken/beef/fish): these are considered fast food, and are also found in other countries in the region. If you order a hamburger at a restaurant, expect it to come topped with a fried egg.

Mate and Tereré
The most common drink in Paraguay is Mate made of Yerba Mate (Mate herbs) which is similar in style to tea but the preparation is distinct. To add sugar is not common in Paraguay. The infusion is prepared by pouring dry yerba into the cup, then adding water: the hot water version is known as mate (preferred in Argentina and Uruguay) while the cold water version is known as tereré and is a local favourite. When it is hot outside, it is more common to drink it as tereré, served in guampas, which can be made out of wood or of hallow bull horns, and is drunk through a metal straw called a bombilla.

Mate is usually enjoyed in the early mornings and late evenings, especially during cold days in winter. Terere is enjoyed year-round, though not during lunchtime and past sunset, as many recommend. Still, you can see every type of Paraguayan (from construction workers to business executives) carry their tereré set at all times. It is a social activity so the cup is passed around: with in between a refill for each person. If you are offered either you should accept at least one cup. If you can get used to the taste and participate, locals will be appreciative. Often, herbs are added to the tereré water (locally called 'remedios' or 'yuyos', which cure different ailments). For example, adding coconut to one's mate is supposed to help with headaches. The taste is best described as earthy, like a bitter green tea, and it will take getting used to before you can enjoy it. Drinking mate or tereré is most definitely one of the social customs of Paraguay. Shops will close around noon for a siesta and for a round of mate/tereré with friends.

Another variation of preparation is to boil the yerba on the stove with sugar and then strain it before serving it with milk. It tastes a bit like smoked tea. In this form, it is called Cocido, which simply means "cooked".

Other non-alcoholic beverages

 * Coffee is mostly of an Italian variety.
 * Gaseosa means fizzy drinks of any description. All the usual brands are available. Try the local Guarana.
 * Pulp is a very popular Paraguayan soft drink. You can buy it a supermarkets or order it in various restaurantes and bars. The original is Pulp Naranja, made with real orange juice.
 * Mosto helado is extracted from the sugar cane and very sweet, sometimes mixed with lime juice to make an 'aloja'. You can find street carts selling mosto near the centro area and in the countryside.
 * In Paraguay, orange juice and other fruit juices, unless squeezed fresh, are almost always reconstituted from dehydrated concentrate. This applies to all unrefrigerated Tetra-Pak juices. The dehydration process destroys vitamin C, and unlike in the West, ascorbic acid may not be added back after reconstitution, thus these fruit juices may not contain any appreciable amount of vitamin C. Either check the packaging, buy fresh juice (freshly squeezed from a street vendor, or Purifru brand in the refrigerator cabinet), or enjoy the wide variety of fresh fruit available on many street corners.

Alcoholic beverages

 * Beer is widely available, as are many liquors. The national beer brand is Pilsen. However, Brazil's Brahma is very popular.
 * Paraguayan hard liquor is similar to rum and is known locally as caña. It is made from sugar cane.

Sleep
Good accommodation will certainly not be hard to find in major towns, and will seem reasonably cheap if the parameter is the dollar or the euro. Prices for cheap and decent accommodation range from GS.40,000 (in/near Asunción and Conceptión) to GS.60,000 (in Encarnación).

The exception, however, is Ciudad del Este. In Ciuded del Este the cheapest accommodation is near the bus station with doubles for less than €10, in an area that is also pleasant in the evening. Cheaper accommodation is easy to find, but if you're after something of higher quality, then you'll have better chances in Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil), just a short bus ride (R$5.50 or GS.8,000) across the bridge, or in Puerto Iguazu (Argentina). However, Brazil is easier regarding immigration, not requiring people to have a stamp if just visiting for a day and thus not checking the buses that enter or leave Brazil. This option is not available with Argentina, and this crossing is also considerably more time-consuming.

Camping
Camping in Paraguay is possible and easy, especially in remote regions like the Chaco. Many opportunities exist, just along the highways often you need to search a little more, because the roads are often spotted with poor indigenous populations. Camping near the border region with Brazil is probably not recommended. For remote camping sites consult OpenStreetMap, which is also used by this travel guide, and by many mobile Apps like OsmAnd or Mapy.cz. It is community-based and listed (remote) camping sites are often verified by real people.

Learn
Although there are few Spanish language learning schools, there are however quite a few snake skin peeling courses available in most small towns. For a moderate to high price (depending on the expertise), you train with the snake skinners for one day at their personal ranch while learning the ins and outs of the reptiles local to the area. Most are non-venomous just be on the lookout for two headed ones that might get you while you have your hand around another. Most lessons go into the evening where the skinner or hunter will prepare a dinner featuring the snake meat, while preserving the skin of course. Most commonly cooked on the grill, snake is a common delicacy in Paraguay.

The other official language is Guaraní. It is an indigenous language spoken widely outside of Asunción. Most Paraguayans can speak both Spanish and Guaraní. When Guaraní is spoken, Spanish words are interspersed with Guaraní, especially for words and phrases that are more complicated to say in Guaraní. Classes to learn Guaraní are unheard of for foreigners (though in the big cities, students who speak Spanish as their first language can opt to learn Guaraní as a second language). There are books available in stores, though the best way to learn would be to speak to the locals.

You can learn local artisanry such as ñanduti embroidery and ao poi at the Instituto Paraguayode Artesanía.

Work
Although Paraguay has some of the lowest living costs in the world and welcomes foreign investment, it is not a hugely popular destination for expatriates. The Paraguayan economy is remarkably small and economic opportunities, particularly for highly skilled professionals, are limited.

Like most countries in South America, the Paraguayan government has a very welcoming approach to immigration. For example, you can obtain permanent residency by simply depositing US$5000 or equivalent in a Paraguayan bank account.

Most people who live in the rural areas of Paraguay are subsistence farmers. They eat what they farm and they sell or barter the rest.

Volunteering (and learning Spanish at the same time) is big in South America and thus also in Paraguay: see the general information on the South America article.

Cope
Facebook has a Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay Backpacker / Traveler group where you can find other travellers and up-to-date information on the country. In general, also see South America.

Stay safe
Generally speaking, Paraguay is a safe country.

There are not many large cities and if you use some common sense and street smarts, you are unlikely to run into any trouble. The police are known to be corrupt, and if you are pulled over for any reason, you will almost certainly be expected to pay a bribe. In Asunción most cops are not corrupt. In the cities crime is common, though not as rampant as in other cities such as Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo and Buenos Aires.

Ciudad del Este is a hotspot for illicit activities, such as money laundering and counterfeiting, but that should not affect your travels. That said, you will want to keep an eye on your bags and wallet here, as you would do in any other large city. Generally, as long as you aren't involved in drug smuggling (inadvertently or otherwise), and are alert to pickpockets, you should be safe most of the time.

Southern regions of Paraguay is part of the South America Tornado Corridor, the second most tornado-prone area in the world (behind the United States Tornado Alley). Monitor local media notices and if you see that the sky is dark, the light take on a greenish-yellow cast or a loud sound that sounds like a freight train, this could be an indication of a tornado. Find shelter immediately. Refer to the tornado safety article for analysis of the issues here.

Corruption
Transparency International routinely ranks Paraguay as one of the most corrupt countries in the world. Although Paraguay has a legal framework that penalises corruption, enforcement of it is horribly weak.

The police force is one of the most corrupt institutions in the country. Numerous reports have documented that many members of the police force engage in illegal activities such as money laundering, embezzlement, extortion, and bribery to supplement their very low salaries. In 2015, the commander of the Paraguayan police force, his son, and six others were arrested for stealing US$230,000 from the police force's gasoline fund to purchase luxury cars and houses, a rare indictment in a country where corrupt officials enjoy impunity. Therefore, it is clear that you should not trust the police.

Road safety
Driving in Paraguay is wild and the country has one of the highest road fatality rates in the world. Paraguayan drivers, in general, are known for their careless and reckless driving habits; they often ignore stop signs, do not observe speed limits, do not drive without insurance coverage, and have no regard for safety. Traffic rules are weakly enforced by the police and widely disregarded.

Paraguay's road network, overall, is underdeveloped, poorly maintained, and suffers from chronic underinvestment. During the rainy season (November-April), many roads end up getting flooded, making most road journeys difficult.

Police checks are common in Asuncion and its neighbouring cities. If you've been stopped by a police officer for whatever reason, comply.

The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.00%. In other words, do not drive under the influence.

Stay healthy

 * Hospitals in Paraguay range from decent to unsanitary and unequipped. If you get desperately ill, try to get to the best hospital even if it takes a bit longer: you may not find surgical gloves in the worst of them.
 * There are many stray dogs running the streets - avoid them. They usually won't bother you.

Diseases
As usual with diseases – prevention is better than cure. Maintaining good hygiene can help prevent illness. Be sure to cover up your feet when treading on unclean floors, soil and sand by using sturdy shoes as you may pick up a foot flea known locally as pique. These pests will usually collect around your toes and lay their eggs under the skin, usually around the toes which if not taken care of can lead to tungiasis.

If you have picked up a pique, you may notice itching or tenderness in your feet. It's recommended to seek medical attention, though oil-based products which you can acquire yourself without a prescription seem to be best at suffocating these:

 * NYDA® – the World Health Organization (WHO) states that NYDA® which is used to kill head lice is the most effective as it kills adults and eggs.
 * Vaseline – you could also use Vaseline to suffocate the adults, but the eggs would remain and you would need to apply it consistently so buy several tins.
 * Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) – another albeit more dangerous option is to use a piercing needle, pour hydrogen peroxide at a concentration of one to 5 liters (169 fl oz.) of clean water over them and then dig the bugs out.

Tungiasis can lead to serious bacterial infections if left untreated including gangrene, so make sure to get this early!

Paraguay is also in the risk zone for the two most common tropical fevers carried by mosquitoes: dengue and yellow fever.

Tap water
Tap water in Asunción, and possibly Ciudad del Este, is potable. Tap water in the rest of Paraguay should be treated to make it safe for drinking. There have been efforts by PLAN International to bring safe, potable water to communities in rural areas (if there is such water available, it is safe to drink). Ask before drinking water in rural areas: many Paraguayans will claim their water is safe to drink even if it's not purified.

Respect
In general, Paraguayans are friendly, polite, and soft-spoken people. Since Paraguay is one of the least visited countries in South America, you're likely to attract attention from very curious people.

General
Paraguayans are rather relaxed about time; you can expect your Paraguayan counterparts to be at least 10-20 minutes late for an appointment. This is completely normal and it does not, in any way, imply that Paraguayans are disrespectful. Flights and buses usually never leave on time.

Impatience is not appreciated. Do not shout, raise your voice, or lose your temper in public. Paraguayans conduct themselves in a patient, collected manner and you're expected to do the same.

Food is a huge part of Paraguayan culture. If you've been offered food by your host(s), eat and say good things about it. Not doing so may offend your host(s).

It is always considered courteous for men to shake hands whenever they meet. Between a man and a woman, or two women, it is common to shake hands and to give a kiss on each cheek. Also when meeting, people will ask not how you are, but if everything is all right, ("¿todo bien?"). The response to this is always, yes everything, and you, ("si estoy bien y vos?") Even if you are having a terrible day, when someone asks such as an acquaintance in the street, one always responds with yes, everything.

Ask questions about or demonstrate some interest in the country. As is the case anywhere, Paraguayans appreciate good comments about and interest in their country, customs, and culture.

Conversation
In Paraguay, due to the small number of tourists and foreigners, during a first encounter people might make jokes or start making fun of you. This is not meant in an impolite way, it is just the people acknowledging differences between you and them and should not be interpreted offensively. Paraguayans, just like Argentinians, especially in the cities and among the youth, tend to have a very acid sense of humour.

It is very difficult to find people who speak English in most of the country, but if you are very patient and try to communicate in Spanish or with signs, most Paraguayans will try to help you out. Those who can will often single you out and begin a conversation themselves, eager to try out their English. People are very kind and helpful, and they will be glad to meet a foreigner.

Sensitive issues
As is the case in any foreign country, foreign criticism and opinions of Paraguay's government and politicians are seldom appreciated; it could get Paraguayans to think you're insulting their country.

By internet
Wi-Fi access is possible at most cafés and restaurants in large cities and tourist towns. Just have a coffee and ask for the password. Public Wi-Fi is also possible in public places like plazas and shopping malls.

title: Paraguay


text:
Along the Paraguay River

The Paraguay River (Río Paraguay in Spanish, Rio Paraguai in Portuguese) is a major river in south central South America, running through Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay and Argentina. It flows approximately 2,549 km from its headwaters in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso to its confluence with the Parana River north of Corrientes. It divides Paraguay into two regions, the oriental and the occidental.

Understand
The Paraguay River was discovered by Alejo García in 1524. It has historically been of vital importance for transportation in South America, because it connects Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay, as well as other countries throughout the Cuenca del Río de la Plata (Plata River Basin). In absence of roads and routes, the Paraguay River was the fastest and most efficient means of transportation and communication, giving Paraguay, a land-locked country, access to the Atlantic Ocean.

Today, it is not the main transit artery for travel in the area, but is still used for various purposes, especially for the transportation of bulk cargo (crops, minerals, fuel, etc.) and riverside people. Low water level is from March to October; this limits transit to boats of medium or low draft.

Crossing Paraguay, it has numerous tributaries, such as the rivers: Tebicuary, Ypané, Manduviré, Aquidabán, Apa, Confuso, Verde and Montelindo.

Get in
Many of the villages, towns or cities along the river can be reached by bus. The most common ones for tourists might be Bahía Negra and Concepción, in between which the Aquidaban ferry runs.

You can also get in (and out) via Puerto Suárez, Bolivia or Corumbá, Brasil—see Paraguay.

Get around
As it's a river, boats are really the only option. You can rent a private boat, take a cruise, or ride a cargo boat.

By fishing boat
Fishermen and other locals are keen to offer their boats and canoes as water taxis for tourists. Just ask: even if he's busy, he'll know someone else who will be willing to take you.

By cargo boat
The main long-distance river transport. These general-purpose boats take passengers as well as cargo, though they're not designed for passengers so there are generally no berths; if you're travelling overnight, you'll have to find a level surface to sleep on.

 * Aquidabán Cargo Ferry – Goes between Concepción and Bahia Negra, 4 days upstream, 2.5 days downstream.

 * Fuerte Olimpo-Concepción Ferry – Goes between Concepción and Fuerte Olimpo.

 * Boat Cacique II – Goes between Asunción and Vallemi, 2 days.

See
North to south:

Cope
Not all boats (mostly only the ferries) are equipped with cabins. So, bring a hammock or camping mat with you.

Go next
Onward travel by boat leads to Brazil and Bolivia in the north, or Argentina in the south.

title: Along the Paraguay River


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Parakou

Parakou is a city in Northern Benin.

Understand
The name Parakou, is derived from the Dendi word meaning "The city of everyone". It is one of the ethnically diverse cities in Benin that includes Bariba, Dendi, Somba, Fon, Mina, Berba, Djerma, Ibo, Yoruba, Hausa, Kabrais, Warma, Fula and Tuareg people.

Get in
National highway RNIE 2, Benin's main highway, passes by here. It connects with Cotonou in the south, continuing towards the border with Niger.

Parakou is the northern rail terminus and although the tracks are in a pretty bad shape it is possible to travel from Cotonou here. Departures are at 08:30 from Cotonou on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. On its way up the country, the train also stops at Bohicon, just outside UNESCO world heritage site and royal city of Abomey, before arriving in Parakou at 19:00. Tickets start at CFA 5600 for first class.

If you are travelling in a group, a more leisurely way of reaching Parakou from Cotonou would be via the privately-run tourist Train d’Ebene, operated by Voyageur SARL  and composed of vintage railway cars from the 1920s. The trip includes dinner, a bar and hammocks for afternoon naps. The train operates on request and can accommodate up to 20 persons. Prices begin at CFA 400,000.

See

 * The Hotel les Routiers has its own zoo with alligators, turtles, warthogs, a small gazelle, and various birds.
 * The Hotel les Routiers has its own zoo with alligators, turtles, warthogs, a small gazelle, and various birds.

Do
A visit to Grand Marché Arzeke, one of the largest in Benin, is a must when visiting Parakou. With more than a thousand vendors you'll find anything from fine rugs to fake DVDs.

Buy

 * The Hotel les Routiers has works of art for sale including carved wooden masks, wall-hangings and jewelry.

title: Parakou


text:
Paralimni

The traditional town of Paralimni is the largest town in the free Famagusta district, located approximately 40 minutes drive from Larnaca airport. Its town square has many good shops (including Marks & Spencer), restaurants, cafes, bars and three churches, the oldest of which houses a museum. Just beyond the square are beautiful gardens and fountains with an open air theatre. Retaining much of its old charm with local crafts, souvenir shops and picturesque narrow streets, it is not unusual to come across fishermen quietly mending their nets in the shade of the vine-covered courtyards. A regular bus service runs along the coast from Paralimni to Protaras and then on to Ayia Napa.

Sleep
If you are looking to get away from it all and relax with your family in privacy, than a holiday villa would be the ideal choice for you. By renting a private villa you will have your own kitchen, living/dining room, bedroom and in many cases your own private swimming pool. Renting a villa provides you, not only, with more space and privacy but is also a more economical option rather than staying at a small hotel room. A villa can usually accommodate a minimum of 4 people, and the rental price is charged per week making it more cost-effective than staying at a hotel.

title: Paralimni


text:
Paramakatoi

Paramakatoi (sometimes spelled Paramakotoi) is a town in Potaro-siparuni in the Guyanese Highlands. This is an extremely remote area. Calling it a place to "get away" would be a great understatement — it is more like stepping back in time and witnessing subsistence living. Internet is reportedly available as of 2017. There are no restaurants and many people living here will have never seen an automobile. Walking is the main form of transportation, and residents think nothing of walking for two days through the rain forest to make it to a neighbouring location. People are friendly and everyone is expected to be greeted with a "good day, sir/miss".

Get in
The only practical way to get to Paramakatoi is to fly with Trans Guyana Airways. They leave from the Ogle (small city airport) in Georgetown. There are a few flights a week but the schedule varies according to the need. Be sure to carry a passport as it may be required before departure or upon return. During the dry season, there is a trail from Lethem that is sometimes usable. This trail is primarily used to bring in supplies. The distance may be short on a map, but the conditions of the trail make for about a two day drive without benefit of gas stations, hotels, or restaurants.

In October 2016, one traveller was told that the trail to Lethem is dangerous to drive, but safe to walk.

Get around
Walk, walk, walk. There are a couple of ATV's in the town, and they can be rented with a driver for short trips.

See
The surrounding rainforest is truly beautiful and unspoiled. Many buildings in town are built using traditional techniques of bark, mud and thatch construction.

Do
Walk on trails to some of the surrounding waterfalls. The local residents will be delighted to escort you for a few dollars. This is a wise thing to do as many of the trails cross over one another and can become quite confusing.

Buy
There are numerous shops which sell the basic necessities and even cheap Brazilian beer.

Eat
Pepper pot is a traditional meat dish, and cassava bread is a staple. Chicken and eggs can be purchased at anytime of the year but other fresh items will depend entirely on what is in season. At times during the year it is possible to get delicious items such as pineapple, mango, watermelon, paw-paw and banana. There are no restaurants, but it is possible to hire a cook.

Drink
Water is gotten from a spring or collected as rain water. This should be boiled before drinking. Bottled water is not readily available, so it would be wise to arrive with as much as possible. Alcohol is available (both rum and beer) along with several local fermented drinks such as parakari and cassiri (cassava beer).

Sleep
There is a guest house that has four bedrooms. It is impossible to contact the manager prior to arriving, but space is usually available. There is also a small bible college that may have space. Ask at the haberdashery, and space will be found.

Connect
For $15 (US) you can get wifi at Sherry Balkaran's store.

Go next
It is possible to walk to the neighbouring village of Kato. This is about a four hour walk. Hiring an ATV can cut the trip down to a little over an hour. Kato is located on a savannah and is a pleasant change from the rain forest of Paramakatoi. It is, however, small and just as remote as Paramakatoi.

title: Paramakatoi