People from every corner of the globe are drawn to Asunción, where Paraguay’s tranquil capital has 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 #29, Teresa Carrières from France and Brazil.
Meet Teresa Carrières
“I am 20 years old. I was born in Brasília, Brazil, and I have both French and Brazilian citizenship. My family works in the Foreign Service, so I grew up moving between different countries. I have lived in Brazil, France and the United States, among other places.”
“I arrived in Paraguay in July 2023. Right now, I am studying English at the Instituto Superior de Lenguas at the Universidad Nacional de Asunción, and I am also an English tutor. I have worked as a substitute teacher at schools as well.”
Teresa has also developed a long-standing passion for photography. She owns five cameras and several lenses, and particularly enjoys photographing portraits, nature and cats. “I have always loved photography. I have five cameras and several lenses, and I really enjoy taking portraits, photographing nature and, of course, cats.”
What are you doing in Paraguay?
“I am studying English at the Instituto Superior de Lenguas at UNA. I am also an English tutor, and I have worked as a substitute teacher at schools.”
What is your favourite place in Asunción, and why?
“Parque de la Salud (Park of Health). I love it. I am a photographer, and I have actually done photoshoots there as well. It is amazing.”
“I really like that it combines two things I love: nature and photography. There are so many things to photograph there.”
What is your favourite place outside of Asunción, and why?
“I honestly have not had the chance to explore as much of Paraguay as I would like to yet. I would really love to see more of the country before I eventually move abroad.”
What do you love most about Paraguay?
“One thing I really love about Paraguay is the feeling that it is, you know, one big family. I always get the impression that everybody knows everybody else.” Having previously lived in the United States, Teresa says the warmth she encounters in Paraguay has made a particular impression on her.
“People have known you for two minutes and will treat you as if they have known you their whole lives. It is very heartwarming.”
What do you miss from home?
“Brazil is technically my home, but I haven’t lived there for years, so it is a complicated feeling. I still feel very connected to Brazil, though.”
“I remember how gorgeous the sky is, how blue it is and the clouds, and just the nature in general. I also really miss the beaches in Rio de Janeiro. I would love to go back and visit Brazil again.”
If you moved away tomorrow, what would you absolutely take with you from Paraguay?
“I would definitely take the people with me, or at least the feeling that they give you. I would really miss that warmth.”
“I would also miss the wildlife and the food. Those are things I really enjoy about Paraguay.” Teresa says Australia is one possible destination for her in the future, although she has not ruled out staying in Paraguay. “I might move to Australia eventually, but I don’t know. I could also stay here. I’m still figuring that out.”
Meet Teresa
You can find Teresa Carrières 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 find out exactly where the next one will take place.
Read previous episodes of People of Asunción:
People Of Asunción #28, Nicholas Ravazzani From The US: “Almost Impossible To Be Alone Here”
People Of Asunción #27, Mariana Martínez From Paraguay: “One Of The Best Cuisines Here”
People Of Asunción #26, Marcelino Hudalla From Germany: “I Could Be An Ambassador For Paraguay”
