Yo amo el futbol!

One of only two land-locked countries in South America, Bolivia is a mountainous country. Here is an overview of the country

The official name of Bolivia is the Republic of Bolivia. Bolivia covers an area of 425,000 square miles, a surprisingly large country. The capital is La Paz, which has a population of just over 800,000 people. Santa Cruz is the largest city by population with over 1.4 million residents.

The terrain of Bolivia is one of high mountains and plains with some elevations so high as to result in altitude sickness. La Paz, in fact, is located at an elevation of nearly 12,000 feet above sea level. This makes the highest capital city in the world. The climate varies from arid in the high elevations to tropical in lower locations.

Historically, Bolivia was considered to be part of Peru during the reign of the colonial Spanish. When Spain was weekend through wars with the French, independence was sought by many of their colonies. In 1809, the country known today as Bolivia declared independence, naming itself after a general of the same name. It took another 16 years to actually gain autonomy from the Spanish.

Independence did not bring peace or stability to Bolivia. The country was rife with corruption and coups by various factions. This weakness led to disastrous results during the late 1800s when Chile annexed the entire area of coastline held by Bolivia on the Pacific Ocean. Bolivia has never recovered the land in question and has suffered economically for it.

The people of Bolivia are known as Bolivians. The total population for the country is 8.973 million as of the last census in 2004. Growth rate is a strong 2.7 percent per year, meaning an additional 230,000 people may have been added from 2004 to 2005.

The ethnic breakdown of Bolivians is 62 percent indigenous and 38 percent European and mixed race. The people primarily adhere to the Roman Catholic faith, but a small Protestant group of adherents is present. The official language is Spanish, with Quechua, Aymara and Guarani indigenous languages also used. The literacy rate is 85 percent. Life expectancy figures are currently unknown.

Bolivia is a country that seems to sway between chaos and moves towards stability. The future of the country is hard to predict as there appears to be no steadying influence in the region.

The country of Bolivia has been very busy nationalizing businesses and industry in their country. They have done this with water filtration plants, natural resource mines, as well as gas and oil industries. This includes; all of the infrastructure, such as pipelines. Just the other day the Bolivian government made a bold move to take natural gas pipelines and infrastructure from foreign businesses that had put up millions of dollars in investment.

Foreign investment especially in infrastructure is very important to third world and emerging economies. Hugo Chavez of Venezuela has also nationalized or stolen vast amounts of industrial infrastructure that was capitalized with foreign investment; once nationalized Venezuela’s governmental owned industrial businesses became very weak and inefficient. Bolivia has attempted to duplicate what Venezuela has done and unfortunately had the exact same results.

To make up for the inefficiencies, Bolivia has nationalized other industrial capacity in its nation and stolen from foreign investors. These acts have hurt Bolivia’s standing in the international community and that has hurt all emerging nations that are also looking for capitalization of infrastructure and foreign investment. Is Bolivia on the brink of collapse; unable to get loans, and unable to run important infrastructure industrial businesses at their full potential?

Is this seizing of Ashmore Natural Gas Company and Shell Oil’s pipelines a bad move for Bolivia? Many international economists believe it was and that this will make it very difficult in the future for Bolivia to survive with a strong economy. Such a bold move could send Bolivia back several decades.

In the heart of South America lies a place admired for its beauty and historico-cultural heritage. Fall in love with the beauty of its wilderness and of its people by traveling in this landlocked country. Here’s where you can go to maximize your stay in Paraguay.

1.) Iguassu Falls

Iguassu Falls lies in the border of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, churning some 553-m3 of water per second down its 269 feet. Situated in the heart of a pristine forest, it is very much recommended for nature lovers, travelers seeking solace and to photographers who wants to capture beauty on their film. Plan a day to enjoy Paraguayan flora and fauna in this area.

2.) Ciudad del Este

Admire the dynamics of a bustling flea market while shopping your heart out and looking for the best bargains in Ciudad del Este. Watch people and products travel the crowded streets like ants carrying supplies for the rainy days. Shop, walk, taste, and discover another side of Paragauayan’s life.

3.) Museum of the Guarani Land

Retrace ten thousand years of Gurani occupation, tradition and culture by going to the Museum of the Gurani Land located some 11.5 kilometers from Ciudad del Este. This free-access museum offers activities and exhibits to help teachers and students learn more about the Gurai culture. Learn more and appreciate Paraguayan culture better by finding your way to this place.

4.) Refugio Biológico Tatí Yupí

Following the construction of Itaipú Dam in Paraguay is the development of natural forest and water system to protect animals that seek shelter near the dam. Go to this refuge and experience superb camping and wonderful camping facilities offered by the place. Biking and horseback-riding is also a must for people who are planning to stay here.

5.) Casa de la Independencia

After some three hundred years of colonization, Paraguayan s declared their independence in Casa de la Independencia in 1811. Relive those magic moments through the place’s collection of coins, furniture, speeches, and other memorabilia. Dictionary or knowledge of Spanish language is required because texts are written in Spanish.

6.) The Chaco

This 330-m2 reserve is six times than Yosemite National Park and covers parts of Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay. The Gran Chaco Americano is a place to enjoy biological diversity as it happens. Take a look in this Paraguayan site and marvel at the varying topographical conditions of the site, the biological diversity that are in existence in the flowing forest, and the people who are maintaining their own cultural identities.

7.) Asado

Asado is a selection of grilled meats roasted in open fire. This is extremely popular in Paraguay, thanks to the high concentration of cattle in the area. Roam around the country, and you will never run out of this delicacy.

8.) Asuncion

Built over the hills above Rio de Paraguay, Asuncion is Paraguay’s home for historical architecture and art. Enjoy its colorful festivals scattered all over the year and see Asuncion in full bloom. The celebration has its way of infecting people, so take a step out and dance your way into the crowd.

9.) Lago Ypacari

Take a dip into the famous lake in Paraguay and enjoy the sights, the spray and the fun that comes with it. This lake is also thought to have curative powers so enjoy some free healing while you’re at it. There’s no stopping you, however, from enjoying some time swimming and playing water sports here.

10.) Trinidad & Jesús

Trinidad & Jesús is a Jesuit settlement in Paraguay built for religious, educational and defensive measures. Admire the tranquility and solace this place offers by camping out near the ruins and hiring local guides to get your way around the place. No need to worry, these guides speak their English, German and Spanish.

Statue of Odin

Jaques Mahien, professor at the University of Buenas Aries, Argentina wrote several books about the Runic Inscriptions of Pre-Columbus Paraguay.

Runic Inscriptions that were written in the 13th Century.

In 1974, Mahiel wrote that he had extensive evidence to prove that a Nomadic Tribe of “White Indians,” in Paraguay, had Ancestors who were “White Aryans of the Nordic Race.” Near Cerio Plilla he found Runes and Giant statue of Odin.

At Guazu, Paraguay, he found 31 Runic messages at the site of a Viking temple. These Artifacts can be traced to the year 967.

Rune Mysteries Peru

Professor Helmut Zettc of Vienna, believes that the Inca royalty was largely Vikings.

Zettc has a lot of evidence to prove his theory. In the Chririmoto Village, Peru, half the population are blue eyed and blond. They ride Norse Fjord ponies. Their language, Quechua, has many words that can be traced to Old Norse.

There is a sharp contrast between the blond, blue eyed children of Norse descent and the darker complexion, black hair of the Peruvian Native.

It is on record that Pizarro asked who the white skinned, red heads were. The Inca’s replied that they were the last descendants of the Viracohas, a divine race of white men with beards.

There is an immense conspiracy to smother historical facts pertaining to Viking artifacts. One well known archaeologist, boasted that he had opened and torn apart more than three thousand Viking Stone graves. These men and women are firmly entrenched. The reason for this furious defense of the status quo is “self preservation.” There is no market for millions of outdated erroneous texts, or discredited professors.

Paraguay is a South American country with rich culture and history, also a favorite getaway for tourists from all over the world including South America itself. Gambling in Paraguay is only legal in the casinos, and they have a few to boast of in the major cities that are of interest as tourist destinations.

Tourists and locals crowd Paraguay casinos alike, as Paraguayans are passionate about the thrill of gambling. Three of the Paraguay casinos are situated in Asuncion, which is also the capital city, and others are in Ciudad del Este and San Bernardino. One of the most famous of these is the Hotel Resort Casino Yacht and Golf Club Paraguay, situated in Asuncion. It is a hotel, as the name suggests, with 125 rooms and suites, an 18-hole golf course, a tennis court, a spa and fitness center, swimming pool, a disco, five restaurants with international and local cuisine, and two bars.

The casino in The Hotel Resort Casino Yacht and Golf Club Paraguay offers 18 table games with American roulette, baccarat, blackjack, Caribbean stud poker, French roulette, poker, and Punto Banco. Besides the table games, the casino also has 80 slot machines for the entertainment of the guests.

Due to the fact that most casinos are on a hotel’s premises, house rules may differ and with them the opening and closing hours, as well. All Paraguay casinos allow gambling only to those who are 18 years or age and more, and the same applies in the case of consumption of any alcoholic beverages. A valid identification will be required in order to enter a Paraguay casino and without one, you may be denied entry to the same.

If you are a beginner in the gambling world, Paraguay casinos’ friendly personnel conduct gambling lessons periodically for free in order to initiate newcomers to the thrill of the game. In Paraguay, the official language is Spanish; however, English is widely spoken throughout the country and in places that are tourist attractions such as casinos.

It is a pleasure to visit Paraguay whether it is by air, land, or a cruise in any season of the year; the people are friendly, the country charming, and the adventures are endless. Visit Paraguay today and experience for yourself the thrill of gambling in their casinos.

The formal name for the country Paraguay is Republic of Paraguay. In short the country is called Paraguay by the citizens Paraguayans. The capital of Paraguay is Asuncion and the major cities of Paraguay include Ciudad Del Este, San Lorenzo, Luque, Capiata and Lambare. The country Paraguay attained independence by securing freedom from Spain during the year May 18, 1811. The country Paraguay celebrates Independence Day on May 15.

Uruguay is situated near Paraguay and Paraguay has lot of tourist spots and places. The following points reveal the importance of holidaying in Paraguay. The border of Ciudad Del Este is an important tourist spot in Paraguay. Ciudad Del Este could be visited from Misiones by a thirty minute drive. Passports of visitors are stamped on arrival to this country. The border place reveals the history of Paraguay in the olden days and saved the country from the wars and innovations against the enemy countries during the olden times.

Another important place of interest is the 300 year old Jesuit settlement near the town Trinidad. This place is considered of historical importance because of the ancient buildings and it is considered as a monument in Paraguay. Paraguay is a place for cheap souvenirs and foods and there are good tourist buildings. Paraguay has a population of Canadian Mennonites and they are settled in the North of Paraguay.

The third important reason for holidaying in Paraguay is to visit the biggest dams in the world which were built in 1984. The construction of the dam project was shared between Paraguay and Brazil for production of power for both the countries. Paraguay produces 90% of electricity and this country is considered as the green way of deriving energy. The construction of the dam involved deforestation and thousands of people moved out of their houses. The dam is strengthened with the water of Iguazu falls.

The next important holiday spot is the Central Circuit. It is considered as the most popular tourist spot and is located 125 miles from the capital of Paraguay. The churches here were constructed during 1775 and are of historic importance. This place is also famous for the place of worship, the Virgin of Miracles. Surrounded by beaches and lake shores it has become a popular camping spot for tourists on their summer vacations.

The final place for holidaying in Paraguay is the Chaco. It is situated on the border with Argentina and Brazil. The famous Iguazu falls is considered as a famous tourist attraction.

Holidaying in Paraguay provides fun and enjoyment and this place has lots more to offer. The exploration of Paraguay is difficult, due to the lack of tourism traveling charges can be expensive.

Argentina food is that food which is ethnically associated with the people of Argentina. If you are looking for Argentina food, you are looking for food and recipes that were invented by the inhabitants of Argentina. If you are in that country, you should have no problem at all. If away, you can still find it. Beef holds sway in Argentina food. Argentines consume beef in large quantities, with some people eating it more than once every day. A preferred manner of eating beef is the asado or barbecue. The highly flavored European effect is still apparent as the cooking expressions criollo (creole) and Porteño entail. Grilled meat is a staple food, with steak and beef ribs readily available.

Breaded and fried meat are eaten as snacks or in sandwiches. They are also consumed when hot with mashed potatoes. Pastries of meat, cheese, sweet corn and a hundred other types are also favorite cuisine. Milanesas is a favorite meat dish made up of a thin slice of beef, chicken or veal. Each slice is covered with beaten eggs, spiced with salt, paprika and other ingredients. This is placed in breadcrumbs and lightly fired in oil.

Argentineans also eat lots of vegetables, salads and Italian food like pizza. Vegetables and salads are favorites for Argentines as much as beef,

The usual drink of Argentina is a drink similar to tea and is called “mate.” Dried leaves and twigs are put in a small cup, generally made from a gourd, but also bone or horn. It is used with a liberal quantity of sugar and hot water.

By the last year’s results, tourism took the third place according to the importance for the economy of Argentina. In 2007 tourism enriched the economy of the country more than for 4 billion dollars, announced the Minister of Tourism in Argentina, Enrique Mayer.

Tourism surpassed even the main branches of industry and agriculture of Argentina.

As the results showed, the amount of foreign tourists in Argentina increased by 11% in comparison with 2006, and thanks to that Argentina took the second place in the region after Chile – 12% and even surpassed the USA (10%), told Mayer.

According to the official information, last year 4 542 996 foreign tourists visited Argentina and everyone of them spent there on average 918 dollars. The majority of tourists come from Chile, Brazil, the USA and Spain. European tourists spend here more money – on average 1 647 dollars. Mayer told that the authorities of the country hope to keep and even to exceed the level achieved in 2007.

Argentina has practically everything for exacting travelers, including the large beaches stretching for several kilometers, some of the highest mountains in the world, boundless steppes and wonderful waterfalls, skiing resorts and a lot of monuments of colonial architecture, dense forests and enormous megapolises and picturesque villages of cattle-breeders.

Unlike its neighbors, Argentina is very Europeanized, but the miraculous and fascinating nature, and a great variety of cultures, make this country very attractive for tourists.

Argentina is not the first country that pays now a lot of attention to the tourism as the most important part of the national income. For example Mozambique has been declared to be one of the most attractive place for tourists, though 15 years ago this country suffered from a brutal civil war. Now they have a developed touristic infrastructure and have earned this rating position.

The Argentina soccer team is considered as one of the giants in the world of professional soccer in the whole world. The team has been rivals with Brazil’s team for the past decades and had continued over the years. The national team of Argentina had consistently remained on top for many years and earned the respect of other national teams in the world.

The 1930 World Cup which was held in Uruguay is a historical event of Argentina’s team when they were able to defeat France with a score of 1-0 and successively the team of the United States with a score of 6-1. This has made a tremendous impact on the popularity of the Argentina team.

Another major leap of Argentina is when it was given the honor to host the World Cup of 1978. With the privilege, it had made the whole nation more interested with the sport and had given the national team a moral boosting which have burned their desire to achieve victory. They national team didn’t fail when they won their first World Cup.

The following years have been a failure for the Argentina soccer team when it didn’t manage bring back the gold for the country.

However, the much awaited 2010 World Cup brings hope for the new breed of players of Argentina to take home the crown to their motherland. There are major preparations of the national team for the coming event. They are working hard in order to regain their title and bring glory to their countrymen and let history repeats itself.

Argentina is a republic in southern South America, and the second largest country in South America. Argentina was a region where the people from all over the world came to live in, so it came to be known as the nation of immigrants. The existing culture of Argentines is an amalgam of African and European cultures.

The mixed culture is reflected in several facets of modern Argentina, mainly in the literature, lifestyle, architecture and music. One of the chief cultural markers of Argentina the tango dance that originated around 100 years ago. This beautiful, romantic dance appears very complex, and it has been highlighted in many movies attaining high recognition all over the world. The music played in the clubs is also a mix of European and local Argentine melodies and strong African beats.

Like the folk music, sport is also an important cultural symbol for the Argentines. In Argentina, soccer is treated more as a national obsession than a game. Buenos Aires, the capital and largest city of Argentina, mostly reflects European culture. The city has many art museums and galleries and houses a vigorous theater community. Nowadays, Argentine cinema has reached international status.

Argentina is home to many nomadic groups, including the Diaguita of the northwest and the Guarani of the south and east. The main cultivation of these two groups is maize. The official religion is Argentine Roman Catholic. Spiritualism has a deep impact among the Argentines.

Argentina is home to a number of international writers, including Jorge Luis Borges, Manuel Puig, Julio Cortazar and Osvaldo Soriano. Spanish is the official language, and some immigrant communities retain their mother tongue as a symbol of identity. In addition, Italian and 17 other native languages are spoken in many parts of Argentina. The restaurants and hotels serve mixed foods including almost all international cuisines.