IX.  Business Travel

Business customs

There are no specific local business customs going beyond the bounds of
normal courtesy.  Introduction between persons are rather formal and
the first name is seldom used in business circles.  Paraguayans are
somewhat informal in observing prescribed appointment times.  For
social events, it is customary to arrive up to 30 minutes late.  Persons are
normally addressed by their academic or professional title, e.g. doctor,
engineer, or licenciado in the case of university graduates.

Travel Advisory and Visas

A passport is required.  U.S. citizens do not need visas for a
three-month stay.  A temporary residence visa can be obtained once in
Paraguay.  The temporary residence document is valid for one year and
is renewable.  The Paraguayan identity document can be obtained based
on the temporary residence.  Travelers can contact the Paraguayan
Embassy at 2400 Massachusetts Ave. N.W. Washington, D.C. 20008, phone:
(202) 483-6960 or Consulates in Los Angeles, Miami or New York.

Holidays

The following are national holidays in a calendar year:

     January 1           New year
     February 3          San Blas
     March 1             Heroes' day
     March/April         Holy Thursday and Good Friday
     May 1               Labor day
     May 15              Independence day
     June 12             Chaco Armistice
     August 15           Founding of Asuncion
     December 8          Virgin of Caacupe Day
     December 25         Christmas

Business infrastructure

Asuncion has plenty of taxis.  A bus system does exist, but it is generally
inadequate for business purposes.  Telecommunications for national and
international services are adequate, with a direct dial system available,
fax and personal telecel are also available.  Hotels are comfortably
furnished and prices are reasonable.  Most types of foods are available
at low prices by international standards.  Paraguay has no particular
health risks and no special precautions need be taken.  Tap water may be
used for drinking purposes in the Asuncion area only.  Sanitary
conditions are generally adequate.  There are competent doctors,
dentists and specialists in Asuncion.