eople 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. Every other 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 #30, Kerrie Hallan from England.
Meet Kerrie Hallan
Originally from England, Kerrie Hallan lived in Canada before moving to Paraguay. Her love of nature and wildlife first attracted her to the Latin American country, but the warm welcome from locals and foreigners encouraged her to stay.
A reflexologist and auricular medicine practitioner, Kerrie hopes to continue offering complementary therapies in Paraguay. She is also learning Spanish to connect with the community that has made her feel at home.
What are you doing in Paraguay?
“When I was in Canada, I had a holistic natural treatment clinic, and I hope to continue that work here. I practise reflexology, which involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet. In reflexology, the foot is considered a map of the body, with different areas corresponding to different organs.
The idea is to promote relaxation and relieve discomfort. I also practise auricular medicine, a modality developed in Europe that involves stimulating different points on the ear.”
What is your favourite place in Asunción, and why?
“I have stayed in the city of Fernando de la Mora and Asunción’s Recoleta neighbourhood, but my favourite place is probably Villa Morra because of its convenience. I can walk to shops, shopping centres and cafés. Everything is within walking distance.”
What is your favourite place outside Asunción, and why?
“I have only really travelled to Ciudad del Este, which is quite hectic compared with Asunción. What I remember most is the countryside along the way. The contrast between the red soil and green fields was beautiful.
Some landscapes even reminded me of England, which I never expected in South America! My friends have told me Encarnación is lovely, so I would like to visit someday.”
What do you love most about Paraguay?
“I am a big nature and animal lover. I love the parrots, parakeets and macaws, as well as the pink and yellow flowers that cover the trees at certain times of year. Another thing I appreciate is how people care for animals. I often see bowls of food and water left outside for stray cats and dogs. Paraguayans are lovely because they treat animals with such kindness and love.”
What do you miss most about England?
“I miss the football and our strange sense of humour! Luckily, I have English friends here who share that humour. I also hope to go and watch a football match in Asunción someday.”
If you moved away tomorrow, what would you take from Paraguay?
“I would probably take my friends, a frangipani tree (or plumeria, a tropical tree seen in Latin America) with white flowers and two little black kittens from around the corner that I feed every day. But I do not really plan on leaving. I hope to make my home here.”
Meet Kerrie Hallan
You can meet Kerrie Hallan at one of The Asunción Times English Networking events – every other 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 #29, Sergio Benítez From Paraguay: “I Appreciate The Beautiful Sunset”
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”
