San Bernardino: The Lakeside Gem of Paraguay

• HelloHola
  [oh-la]
• GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/deh nah-dah]
• Thank youGracias
  [grah-see-ahs]
• Excuse me/SorryPerdón
  [pehr-dohn]
• How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
• I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tee-ehn-doh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseQuisiera ver el menú, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah behr ehl meh-noo, por fah-vor]
• I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
• Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseQuisiera pagar, por favor
  [kee-see-eh-rah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]

• Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
• Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!¡Llama a un doctor!
  [yah-mah ah oon dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
• I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]

• I'd like to buy...Quisiera comprar...
  [kee-see-eh-rah kohm-prahr]
• I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy meer-ahn-doh]
• How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
• That's too expensiveEsto es demasiado caro
  [ehs-toh ehs deh-mah-see-ah-doh kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-hahr ehl pree-syoh]

• What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
• It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
• Half past (10)Media (diez)
  [meh-dee-ah (dyehs)]
• MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
• EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
• YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
• TodayHoy
  [oy]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwa-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [sehs]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
• What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwahl ehs lah dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksy-moh (ah-oo-toh-boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un boleto (a ....)
  [oon boh-leh-toh (ah)]

San Bernardino, named after the German saint St. Bernardino of Siena, was founded in 1881 by German immigrants. The town's founding settlers were primarily composed of European immigrants, particularly from Germany, searching for new opportunities in South America. The settlers brought with them their cultural traditions, language, and customs, which significantly influenced the development of the town.

The German settlers played a crucial role in shaping San Bernardino’s identity. The town became a popular destination for German immigrants, and their influence is evident in the architecture, cuisine, and cultural events. Traditional German festivals such as Oktoberfest are celebrated annually, attracting visitors from all over Paraguay and beyond. The town's German School and various German clubs continue to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of the original settlers.

During the 1920s and 1930s, San Bernardino experienced a period of prosperity and growth. This era, often referred to as the 'Golden Era', saw the construction of many of the town's historic buildings and the development of infrastructure that supported a burgeoning tourism industry. The town became a favored holiday destination for Paraguay’s elite, who were drawn to its scenic beauty and the appealing climate of Lake Ypacaraí.

World War II brought significant changes to San Bernardino. The war disrupted the flow of immigrants, and the town experienced a period of economic hardship. However, the post-war period saw a resurgence in tourism and development. Many European refugees and displaced persons found a new home in San Bernardino, further enriching the town's cultural tapestry. The post-war era also saw the establishment of new hotels and resorts, revitalizing the local economy.

Today, San Bernardino is known as a vibrant tourist destination, renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and beautiful natural surroundings. The town has preserved much of its historical charm while embracing modern amenities to cater to visitors. Key attractions include the scenic Lake Ypacaraí, historic buildings, cultural festivals, and the bustling waterfront promenade. San Bernardino continues to be a testament to the enduring legacy of its founders and the diverse cultural influences that have shaped its development over the years.

San Bernardino, located in the Cordillera Department of Paraguay, is approximately 50 kilometers from the capital city, Asunción. The nearest international airport is Silvio Pettirossi International Airport in Asunción. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use shuttle services to reach San Bernardino. The drive typically takes about an hour. Bus services also operate between Asunción and San Bernardino, providing a more economical option.

San Bernardino is a relatively small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For getting around locally, taxis and rideshare services like MUV and Bolt are available. Public buses operate within the town and connect to nearby areas. Renting a bike is also a popular option, especially for exploring the scenic routes around Lake Ypacaraí. Car rentals are available for those looking to venture further afield.

The official currency in Paraguay is the Paraguayan Guaraní (PYG). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in San Bernardino, but it's wise to withdraw enough cash before heading to more remote areas. Exchange bureaus are also available in the town.

San Bernardino is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While San Bernardino is not known for high crime rates targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in San Bernardino. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The main hospital in the area is the Hospital de Clínicas, located in nearby San Lorenzo.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a friendly smile. A slight nod of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience San Bernardino like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Paraguayan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss the weekly feria (market fair) where you can find artisanal crafts and local cuisine. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on Lake Ypacaraí, offering picturesque views and a relaxing atmosphere.