The most popular traditional music in Paraguay is polcas and guaran as which have slow and romantic rhythms and which are used as serenades. Special purchases include nandut lace, made by the women of Itagua, and aopo sports shirts, made in a variety of colours and designs. Other items include leather goods, wood handicrafts, silver yerba mat cups and native jewellery. Shaking hands is the usual form of greeting. Smoking is not allowed in cinemas and theatres.
Dress tends to be informal and sportswear is popular.
Avoid sensitive subjects such as military installations. Outside the capital Asunci n, which has approximately ten hotels of good standard, accommodation is fairly limited. Imagen Latinoamericana is published monthly by Editorial Grama, Inc.