8 Best Places to Shop in Asunción, Paraguay

One of the best shops for ñandutí (Paraguayan lace) is Ao P'oí Raity.

For the best leather goods try Casa Vera.

For department-store items, try the three-story Excelsior Mall.

Folklore sells carved wood items.

Across from the Panteón Nacional de los Héroes is the doyenne of Asunción diners, the Lido Bar. The counter loops around the room, painted tan with highlights of brown. Just pull up a stool and enjoy luscious ice cream and coffee served by pillbox hat-clad waitresses. The icy air-conditioning feels so good that you'll hate to return to the sweltering heat outdoors. Order another slice of pie instead.

Mariscal López Shopping has stores selling clothing, books, and records, and computer terminals with free Internet access.

You can find lots of handicrafts west of Plaza de los Héroes between Palma and Estrella. For quality goods, stick to the specialty stores. Hundreds of small shops here sell imported watches, electronics, cameras, and athletic shoes. Watch out for street vendors selling knock-offs such as "Rolec" watches.

Shopping del Sol has specialty shops, a cinema, and a children's play area.