Ciudad del Este, the second-largest city in Paraguay, is known as a commercial hub and one of the largest shopping destinations in South America. Founded in 1957 under the name Puerto Flor de Lis, the city was renamed Ciudad Presidente Stroessner in 1959 to honor Paraguay's then-dictator Alfredo Stroessner. After the fall of Stroessner's regime in 1989, the city was renamed Ciudad del Este, which means "City of the East" due to its location in eastern Paraguay. Ciudad del Este is situated on the banks of the Paraná River, which also serves as a natural border between Paraguay and Brazil. Its strategic location makes it a major gateway between Paraguay and its neighboring countries, Brazil and Argentina. The city has a subtropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it a comfortable destination to visit at any time. With a population of over 300,000, Ciudad del Este is home to a diverse community. The city is inhabited by various ethnic groups, including native Paraguayans, Brazilians, Argentinians, Arabs, and Chinese. This cultural diversity is reflected in the city's daily life and festivals. Ciudad del Este is famous for its bustling free market, making it a paradise for bargain hunters. The city is also known as a hub for electronics, clothing, and other imported goods. Despite its reputation for cheap shopping, the city also faces challenges such as smuggling and illegal trade, which are major concerns for the local government.
Ciudad del Este has an extensive and affordable bus network, making it a good transportation option for getting around the city. Ticket prices range from Gs. 4,000 - 5,000. Buses are also available for trips to neighboring cities such as Asunción and Foz do Iguaçu in Brazil.
Spanish and Guarani are the main languages used. English is fairly common among merchants.
The official currency of Paraguay is the Guarani (PYG/Gs.). US Dollars and Brazilian Reals are also widely accepted.
Ciudad del Este is renowned for its bustling free market. Be cautious of counterfeit goods. Many electronics and clothing items sold can be fake, so make sure to buy from reputable stores. Keep your valuables safe, as busy markets can be targets for pickpockets. Always be vigilant and secure your belongings. Lastly, be ready to negotiate prices, as they are often negotiable.
Ciudad del Este offers various attractions for tourists. Firstly, there is the Khuan Ying Monument, a giant Buddha statue symbolizing the city's religious and cultural diversity. Also, there is Salto del Monday, a spectacular waterfall perfect for nature lovers and photography. You can also visit the Itaipú Dam, one of the largest dams in the world, offering informative tours and stunning views. Then there's the Omar Ibn Al-Khattab Mosque, the largest mosque in Paraguay, reflecting the significant Arab community in Ciudad del Este. Finally, you can shop for duty-free goods at popular shopping centers like Nissei, Shopping Paris, Shopping China, Sax, and Mercado de Ciudad del Este.
There are several transportation options to visit Ciudad del Este. You can fly to Guarani International Airport (AGT), which serves domestic and international flights. There are direct flights from Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and other South American cities. For cities in Europe, North America, and Asia, transit flights are available. You can also take intercity buses. The bus journey from Asuncion, the capital of Paraguay, takes about 6-7 hours, while the trip from Foz do Iguacu in Brazil takes just 30 minutes. Renting a car for a more convenient trip is also an option. There is a toll road connecting the city with Asuncion and Foz do Iguacu.
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