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 every week, these gatherings offer the perfect blend of Paraguayan warmth and international energy. In this People of Asunción series, we introduce the inspiring individuals who make this scene so uniquely alive. In #27, Mariana Martínez From Paraguay.
Meet Mariana Martínez
Mariana Martínez, 38, is a biologist with a PhD, specialising in mycology and botany. She works as the head of a microbiology laboratory and as a researcher at the National University in Paraguay. She also works as an environmental consultant and occasionally supervises and advises undergraduate and graduate thesis projects.
What is your favourite place in Asunción, and why?
“My favorite place in Asunción is the Asunción Waterfront (Costanera de Asunción) because of its open view of the Paraguay River, the fresh breeze, and because it’s an ideal place for walking, cycling, or enjoying a tereré at sunset.”
What is your favourite place outside of Asunción, and why?
“One of my favorite places outside Asunción is Paraguarí because it has impressive hills, lush green nature, and a lot of historical significance. For me, it is an ideal place to take a break, walk outdoors, and enjoy the unique mountain landscapes that Paraguay has to offer.”
What do you love most about Paraguay?
“What I love most about Paraguay is the warmth of our people. They are kind, supportive, and hardworking despite the circumstances. Paraguay is a resilient country. I also love our food; I think we have one of the best cuisines here in the region.”
If you were to move away tomorrow, what would you absolutely take with you from Paraguay?
“If I had to move away tomorrow, I would definitely take a notebook with recipes for our traditional dishes, so I could recreate them and share them with the new people I meet.”
What else can you tell us about your activities and lifestyle in Paraguay?
“I have a fairly active lifestyle. Most of my time is dedicated to research and teaching, but I also make time for other activities. I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, camping, exploring nature, going for walks, and spending time with friends. I also love cooking and watching TV series. Another thing I really enjoy is learning languages. Since English is important for my profession, I often attend social activities and events where I can practice it and meet new people.
Part of my academic training took place in Argentina, where I completed my specialisation. This experience allowed me to broaden my professional perspective and connect with people from different backgrounds. In my free time, I also work with a friend providing thesis consulting and academic writing support. We started this project because we saw a need for students to receive guidance on how to organise and express their ideas more clearly. I really enjoy it because it allows me to share my experience and support students in their academic projects.”
Meet Mariana
You can find Mariana Martínez on Instagram or in person at one of The Asunción Times English Networking events every Tuesday from 18:00 to 21:00. 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 find out exactly where the next one will take place.
Read previous episodes of People of Asunción:
People Of Asunción #26, Marcelino Hudalla From Germany: “I Could Be An Ambassador For Paraguay”
People Of Asunción #25, Micah Koppang From The U.S: “People Are Amazing Here”
People Of Asunción #24, Enzo Ferreira From Paraguay: “Warm-Hearted People In Every Corner”
