Under $100: Asunción, Paraguay

The capital of Paraguay is a small city with just more than half a million, and it’s also very young. About 65 percent of its residents are under the age of 30, which has revived the city’s nightlife in recent years, making it an attractive destination for travelers on a budget.

There aren’t many tourists who visit Paraguay, but its capital is easy to get around on foot. Taxis are also relatively inexpensive ($5–10), just remember there’s a 30 percent surcharge after 10 p.m. Tipping is not required, but make sure the driver is using the meter. Busses are also cheap and plentiful, though be careful boarding and getting off since they only slow down instead of coming to a complete stop.

Since there aren’t a lot of tourist attractions, one of the best places to learn about Paraguayan culture is at Asunción’s annual trade fair which takes place every July. Vendors range from tractor suppliers to distilleries, with plenty of them offering free samples of food and drinks. If the fair isn’t going on, stop by for lunch at the local favorite Confiteria Bolsi. It’s not traditional food, but the menu has a lot of variety at reasonable prices ($5–15).

Before taking in the nightlife, check out Asunción’s historic center and many impressive buildings like the National Congress and Presidential Palace. The National Pantheon of Heroes is the country’s most iconic building, containing the remains of several former presidents and war heroes.

Stop by for dinner at Bar San Roque, which after one century is the oldest restaurant in the country. No visit to Asunción is complete without trying its menu of meat and fish dishes ($10-40), as well as its extensive wine list, will get you ready for a night out. The city has a thriving live music scene with plenty of venues to choose from. Local favorites include La Cachamba and Faces.