Ciudad del Este, the capital of Paraguay’s Alto Parana Department, is the second-largest city in the country and is part of the important trio of towns at the meeting point between Paraguay, Brazil and Argentina. One of the largest free-trade zones on earth, many travellers visit primarily for the city’s unique, frenetic shopping experience; however, the town is surrounded by a magnitude of amazing attractions, and parts further from the border are calm and pleasant. The Itaipu Dam, an incredible feat of engineering and one of the largest hydro-electric dams in the world (don’t miss the breathtaking light displays at night). The rest of the Tati Yupi Biological Reserve (wherein the dam lies) is another excellent reason to visit, with its beautiful natural pools, rich flora and fauna, and wonderful guided photography tours. Don’t miss the Salto del Monday Waterfall, either.