Paraguay is one of many countries that has more than one national language. Paraguay recognizes and uses both Spanish and Guarani. Guarani was originally an indigenous language, but has been preserved and passed down through generations. 70% of Paraguayans are bilingual, as both Spanish and Guarani are spoken in most households, workplaces, and taught in all schools.
The currency in Paraguay is the Guarani. When I first arrive in Paraguay, one U.S. dollar was equivalent to 7,000 Guaranis. As both economies are changing, the U.S. dollar is now close to 8,000 Guaranis. There are 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, 50,000 and 100,000 dollar bills and 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 Guarani coins.
One bottle of water in Paraguay costs about 5,000 guaranies. This is the equivalent of about 60 cents in U.S. dollars.
It is currently mango season here! I have been eating mango with tajin with my breakfast and for snacks. I have also been making mango salsa and eating it with chicken and rice bowls, which is delicious!
