Paraguay

Country Information: 

The subtropical Paraguay was founded in 1811 and nicknamed Corazón de América, meaning “the Heart of America” for its central location on the continent. The population is around 7 million and the capital is Asunción.

Christianity is the main religion and the Roman Catholic Church is especially popular. The official languages are Spanish and Paraguayan Guaraní, with Guaraní being is one of the most-widely spoken indigenous languages of the Americas. 

Jim’s Perspectives: 

(2014) The people of Paraguay are known for producing some of the world’s most exquisite lacework. They are famous for Nanduti (meaning “spiderweb”), which is beautiful lace created in circular designs in various vibrant colors. When you visit Paraguay you will see lace everywhere! Another unique fact is that Paraguay is the only country in the world whose national flag has different emblems on each side, with the Coat of Arms on the front and the Treasury Seal on the back.

An amazing sight in Paraguay is the Itaipu Dam, a huge hydroelectric dam on the Paraná River between Brazil and Paraguay. It’s known for its nighttime light shows and great views.

South Africa

I have been to South Africa twice, once in the 1996 (pic above) and again in 2016 (pics below). When visiting, travelers cannot miss out on a safari at Kruger National Park, a park about the same size as Israel! If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see the Big 5:...

Hungary

Went to Hungary with my father in 1997, as part of a 12 day GATE 1 tour through Poland, Czech Republic, Austria, and Hungary, and also visited this lovely city in 2009 with my MBA classmates from the University of Tennessee. Dad and me in 1997 from high up on...

Solomon Islands

Country Information:  The tropical Solomon Islands temperatures are wet and warm year-round. The name comes from King Solomon de Mendana, the nephew of a former Peruvian governor. About 700,000 people live here. The islands gained independence in 1978 from Britain and...