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 #3: James Meads from the United Kingdom.
Meet James Meads
James Meads is a businessman that has lived in different parts of Europe, and moved to Paraguay. He shares his opinion about Paraguay compares to his native Europe.
Where are you from and how long have you been in Paraguay?
“I am originally from the UK. I was born in Birmingham, but also spent many years living in Germany. Most recently I lived in Bulgaria, where I still stay during the European summer. I have been coming on and off to Paraguay for two and a half years. The first time I came was in April 2023.”
What are you doing in Paraguay?
“Here in Paraguay, I run my own business. My background is in procurement and supply chain, and now I advise procurement technology startups on their products, marketing strategy, go to market, and channel partnership strategies. I also sell no-code apps that help procurement and supply chain teams digitise their operations.”
“I got into this business after spending 18 years working in corporate procurement. I wanted time and location freedom, and was frustrated by the manual processes. I often felt like a well-paid administrative assistant. That pushed me to explore what technology, apps, and software could digitise procurement and supply chain work. I started a podcast, and built a website with a database of over 400 solutions, which turned me into a subject matter expert in this space.”
What is your favourite place in Asunción, and why?
“I love the craft beer bars, because there is a great craft beer scene. I also like the old town because it has character, even though some parts are a bit run down. My favourite restaurants include Patria Parilla and Lo de Osvaldo for asado. I also really like the Korean food you can find in Asunción, because I enjoy spicy food.”
What is your favourite place outside Asunción, and why?
“I like Piribebuy and the villages around it. It is a nice place to spend the weekend. I found out about it through my Paraguayan ex-girlfriend, whose family is from Piribebuy.”
What do you love most about Paraguay?
“Freedom. In Europe, there are many regulations, and you cannot do anything without some kind of rule from the government. Here, I feel people are freer. I also think Paraguayan people are very friendly and helpful. In Europe, many people have lost that because of the busy lifestyle.”
“Another part of that freedom is not working half the year for the government. If you come from a country with around 40% tax, it affects how much you have to work to do things for yourself. In Paraguay, there is more focus on individual responsibility.”
What do you miss from home?
“Good Indian food, and tea. I have not tried tea here, but I like cocido. I am not a fan of mate or tereré.”
If you would move away tomorrow, what would you absolutely take with you from Paraguay?
“Asado. Beef in Europe is very expensive, the cuts are not the same, and people do not cook it the same way. I like that you can relax on a Sunday and cook asado together, which would be a treat in Europe.”
Meet James
You can bump into James 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.
Read previous episodes of People of Asunción:
People of Asunción #1, Simon Kerzel From Germany: ‘Paraguay Feels Like Genuine Freedom’.
People Of Asunción #2, Patricia Fretes From The US: “I Love The Unity Within People Here”.
