Paraguay

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.

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. 

Micronesia

This is an up-and-coming country, with endless possibilities. Flying into Pohnpei you pass by the light blue outer reefs and then by Sokehs Rock, a much smaller version of Cape Town’s Table Mountain. FSM’s economy is based on farming and fishing and its government...

Afghanistan

Jim & Some Locals in Mazar Sharif, in Northern Afghanistan Country Information: The capital of Afghanistan is Kabul, surrounded by beautiful mountains. About 35 million people live here. Afghanistan’s official languages are Pashto and Dari, though a small portion...

Mongolia

The capital of Mongolia is Ulaanbaatar and the official language is Mongolian. About 3.5 million people live here. Mongolia used to be more heavily dominated by folk religions such as Shamanism, but today, most of the population follows Tibetan Buddhism. The time zone...