Paraguay

Paraguay is a unique landlocked South American country where indigenous Guaraní culture thrives alongside Spanish heritage! Unlike most Latin American countries where indigenous languages declined, Paraguay celebrates being officially bilingual - most Paraguayans speak both Spanish and Guaraní, the indigenous language. This makes Paraguay special in preserving indigenous identity while building a modern nation.

The country is divided by the Paraguay River: the eastern region has lush forests, farms, and most of the population, while the sparsely populated Gran Chaco in the west features vast plains and unique wildlife. Paraguay is known for its traditional harp music (the Paraguayan harp has a distinctive sound), ñandutí lace (intricate spider-web patterned lacework), and yerba mate tea culture. Asunción, the capital, sits on the river with colonial architecture and modern developments. Paraguay has overcome a difficult history to become a proud nation celebrating both indigenous and Spanish heritage. From the Jesuit Missions (UNESCO sites where indigenous and European cultures blended) to contemporary folk music, Paraguay teaches us about bilingual identity and cultural fusion!