People from every corner of the globe are drawn to Asunción, where Paraguay’s laid-back capital has quietly become a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and ambition. Each Tuesday evening from 18:00 to 21:00, digital nomads, expats, and friendly locals come together at the ever-popular English Networking event organised by The Asunción Times. Held in a different charming bar or restaurant across the city each week, these gatherings offer the perfect blend of Paraguayan warmth and international energy. In this “People of Asunción” series, we introduce you to the inspiring people who make this scene so uniquely alive. In #1: Simon Kerzel from Germany.
Meet Simon Kerzel
Simon Kerzel is a 20 year old entrepreneur from Germany, currently living in Paraguay where he works remotely in the field of AI and automation. As a self-employed innovator, he helps businesses streamline their operations through intelligent automation and digital solutions.
Where are you from, and how long have you been in Paraguay?
“I am from Rheine in Germany, a city in the district of Steinfurt in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. It is situated on the Ems River, and the largest city in its district. I think I arrived here in June 2025.”
What are you doing in Paraguay?
“I am currently living in Paraguay and working remotely. I run my own business called Insertly AI, where I help small and mid-sized companies automate their processes using artificial intelligence. In essence, I build and integrate AI automations into CRM and business systems to make operations more efficient. That includes automating repetitive tasks such as follow-ups, onboarding, reporting, and customer support, as well as creating AI agents for client communication across email and chat.”
What is your favourite place in Asunción, and why?
“That is a good question. I really enjoy The Costanera, as it is right by the water and has a lovely atmosphere. I also like the Shopping del Sol area, because it offers everything you might need nearby. It is a pleasant and safe neighbourhood, ideal for living, walking around, and going out. That is what I truly appreciate about it.”
“As for how I discovered the area, it was actually through a YouTube video made by a random expat who shared his screen on Google Maps and explained the different parts of the city. He mentioned that from the old centre to the right, there are two main roads that form a “V”, and within that “V” it is generally safer and a nicer place to live.”
What is your favourite place outside Asunción, and why?
“I have not been to the Chaco yet, but I saw some photos and I think I would really enjoy it there. I have not traveled much, but I would say the Chaco or the Paraguayan countryside. I also like San Bernardino. It is close to Asunción, easy to reach, and surrounded by nature.”
What do you love most about Paraguay?
“It is rather difficult to put into words, but it feels like genuine freedom. Here, you can go about your life with far fewer restrictions; things simply flow more freely.”
“I suppose this has to do with the freedom of movement, you can travel quite easily, and there are not as many regulations as there are elsewhere. Compared to Germany, there are fewer bureaucratic barriers.”
“For example, if you are self-employed, in Germany there are endless rules and requirements for businesses. Here it is easier to start something, the taxes are lower, and it is a more innovation-friendly environment. And there is a thriving digital nomad and expat community, with plenty of events and opportunities to connect with others.”
What do you miss from home?
“At the moment, nothing to be honest. I suppose my family, that would be the “diplomatic” answer. But in truth, I do not really miss much at all, and that is precisely why I am here.”
If you would move away tomorrow, what would you absolutely take with you from Paraguay?
Food. Yes, some kind of food, probably meat. But you cannot carry around meat for so long. So, maybe a chipa guazú. I have tried it in many restaurants and it never disappoints.”
What would you tell someone who wants to come to Paraguay?
“It is amazing, just come and see for yourself. Paraguay is laidback, safe, and calm, especially in the right areas. You can walk around even at night, focus on work, and relax. Compared to other cities in South America, it is more peaceful and less noisy, which I really like.”
Meet Simon
You can find Simon Kerzel on Instagram, or better yet, bump into him in person at one of The Asunción Times English Networking events – every Tuesday from 18:00 to 21:00, popping up in a different lively bar or restaurant across Asunción! Check our What’s On Guide to discover exactly where the next one is taking place.
