Asuncion

Latin Trade, Feb, 2004

BEST HOTEL

Granados Park. When you're a guest at the Granados Park, readers say, the staff has thought of everything--from the pressed clothes they leave in your room (at no charge) to the free use of computers and printers in the hotel's common areas. Executive guest rooms include work desks, laptop connections and unlimited Internet use at no cost. A generous buffet breakfast is included in the room rate and the hotel operates its own shuttle to and from the airport. The Granados Park has 57 suites and 14 luxury suites, a spa, rooftop swimming pool and a gym. It sits in the heart of the financial and business district, just steps from the Plaza de los Heroes, one of the city's main squares. During low season, rates begin at US$90 a night. Calle Estrella, corner of 15 de Agosto. Phone: [595] (21) 497-921. www.granadospark.com.py

BEST BUSINESS RESTAURANT

La Pergola Jardin. Traditional Paraguayan dishes are the backbone of the menu at this elegant eatery, which is especially adept at preparing freshwater fish. Recommended is the surubi, a local favorite, although the menu has at least nine other fish dishes. The combination of good food and outstanding service make this an ideal spot for business meals. Or, if you're on the run between meetings, you can always slop at the restaurant's side dour, where its cafe and bakery sells snacks and to-die-for pastries. Avenida Peru 240. Phone: [595] (21) 214-014.

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY

InterTours. Founded in 1986, InterTours is notable for the range of services it provides--and for its attention to detail. It organizes many major events and conferences in the country, including meetings hosted by multinational corporations and political events. InterTour is the local representative of a number of well-known travel companies, including Marriott hotels. Avenida Peru 436 at Calle Espana. Phone: [595] (21) 211-747. www.intertours.com.py

BEST DAY EXCURSION

Lake Ypacarai and Aregua. Just a few kilometers from Asuncion is the town of Aregua, which for generations has been a weekend resort famous for its individually crafted musical instruments, ceramics and jewelry. Aregua looks out over lovely Lake Ypacarai, an important attraction and resource in landlocked Paraguay; fishing, windsurfing and other watersports can be arranged. Phone: InterTours [595] (21) 211-747. www.intertours.com.py

BEST TOURIST TRIP

Itaipu Dam. One of the most impressive dams in the world is only a short trip away. If you spend a night in Ciudad del Este, you can sneak a peak at at Iguassu Falls across the Friendship Bridge. Inter]burs travel agency can help make arrangements. Phone: 15951 (21) 211-747. www.intertours.com.py

BEST LEISURE HOTEL

Hotel Casino Yacht y Golf Club Paraguayo. Set on 80 hectares of woods alongside the Paraguay River, the 128-room hotel has a fine offering of golf, tennis, squash and other sporting activities as well as one of the most, elegant casinos in South America. The spa offers full services, including massage, reiki and aromatherapy. The five-star hotel is located just 15 minutes from downtown Asuncion. Bates start at $168. Phone: [595] (21) 906-121. www.hotelyacht.com.py