The 'forgotten country' of Paraguay sits landlocked between South America's tourist favorites of Brazil, Argentina and Bolivia, and is generally overlooked by all except the most intrepid travelers and eco-tourists.

Those who take the trouble to fly into the capital, Asuncion, will find a large, relaxed city full of Latin American atmosphere and historical interest. The city's rich 450-year history is reflected in the downtown architecture, including the Cathedral, as well as some modern marvels like the beautiful Lirico Theater, dozens of night spots, vast shopping malls and some excellent hotels and restaurants.

Rivers are the lifeblood of this country, which has no railways, and a popular trip for tourists is to take a scenic cruise from Asuncion to Concepcion, a town about 130 miles (210km) north of the capital, and back, along the wide, lazy River Paraguay.

The more adventurous make expeditions to the western Chaco region, where some fascinating German Mennonite communities and indigenous Guarani people still live as they have for centuries, and hundreds of species of flora and fauna can be discovered among the marshes.

Paraguay is a travel book still to be written, and a country full of treasures yet to be showcased, but those who enjoy exploring unspoilt wilderness without much in the way of modern amenities or tourist infrastructure will find a holiday in Paraguay a truly memorable experience.

From the Word Travels destination guide to Paraguay copyright Globe Media 2011