Language:  

Spanish and Guarani are both official languages.

Cost of Living:  

In a 2005 survey, Asuncion, Paraguay was named the cheapest city in the world. The rest of Paraguay is equally inexpensive.

Visas and Work Permits:

A visa is required for U.S. citizens to enter Paraguay. For more information visit: http://www.embaparusa.gov.py/visas_english.html.

Job Searching:

Volunteering will be you best option for gaining experience in Paraguay. Habitat for Humanity and World Wildlife Fund both have volunteer programs in Paraguay. Some helpful links include: http://www.volunteerabroad.com/Paraguay.cfm and http://www.serveyourworld.com/articles/158/1/Volunteer-in-Paraguay.

Cultural Differences:  

Due to a lack of a distinct aristocracy, Paraguay has relatively mobile social classes. There are still varying degrees of wealth, but not as extreme as in some other Latin American countries. Paraguayans are very loyal to their families. The culture is often very traditional and conservative. For more information on etiquette in Paraguay please visit: http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_py.htm.

Money and Banking:

Paraguay suffered from a banking collapse in the 1990s. It has since recovered, but due to banking crises in neighboring Argentina, the Paraguayan banking system still remains weak.

Security and Safety:  

The area where Paraguay, Argentina, and Brazil meet is considered to be a prime locale for crime. For complete information on safety and security: http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_997.html