Ciudad del Este, Paraguay

Capital City

This bustling commercial hub is not for the faint of heart. With a population of 350,000, Ciudad del Este accounts for 8% of Paraguay's GDP, making it the second-largest city in the country. However, the city's reputation as a smuggling hub and the presence of Hezbollah-linked money laundering activities cast a persistent shadow. Bureaucracy is a headache, with multiple government offices spread throughout the city. The subtropical climate can also be oppressive, with hot, humid summers and irregular winter temperatures. Overall, Ciudad del Este is best suited for savvy shoppers and traders willing to navigate its challenges.