USA vs Paraguay: World Cup fever grips Los Angeles despite Trump policies — what World Cup 2026 travellers need to know

World Cup 2026 is rewriting travel rules for football fans. As Los Angeles transforms into a global hub for the tournament, travellers are weighing two very different destinations to catch the action: the USA’s high-energy cities or Paraguay’s off-the-beaten-path charm. But this isn’t just about football. It’s about navigating visa policies, balancing budgets, and choosing between urban spectacle and rural authenticity.

If you’re among the millions plotting your World Cup journey, you’ll need more than a ticket and a jersey. You’ll need a plan. Here’s what World Cup 2026 travellers actually need to know about the USA versus Paraguay—safety, costs, logistics, and local secrets—so you can travel with confidence.

Why Los Angeles is the World Cup 2026 front runner for travellers

Los Angeles isn’t just hosting games—it’s hosting the idea of the World Cup. With three stadiums across the city (SoFi, Banc of California, and Rose Bowl) and a built-in tourism infrastructure, LA offers convenience, comfort, and spectacle. The city’s international airport (LAX) is a global gateway, making it easy to jet in from Europe, Asia, or Latin America. Plus, LA’s multicultural pulse means you’ll find global cuisines, multilingual services, and a diverse fan base.

✨ Paraguay’s rural charm vs USA’s urban energy—World Cup 2026 travellers face a tough choice.

For travellers, LA’s appeal lies in its predictability. Hotels range from downtown luxury towers to beachside hostels, and public transit—while improving—isn’t essential. Ride-sharing apps dominate, and English is universal. The city’s safety record in tourist zones is strong, though petty theft and scams (like fake ride-shares) are risks to watch for.

💡 Pro tip: Book your LA hotel at least 9 months ahead. World Cup 2026 will drive prices up 300–400% in June–July, especially near SoFi Stadium. Consider staying in Long Beach or Pasadena to save 40–50% and avoid stadium crowds.

How Trump-era policies still affect World Cup 2026 travellers to the USA

Despite the World Cup’s global appeal, US immigration policies under the Trump administration’s legacy continue to shape travel realities. Visa waiver programs (like ESTA) remain in place, but stricter scrutiny at borders is expected. Travellers from visa-required countries face longer processing times and more detailed interviews. The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has increased use of facial recognition at major airports, including LAX, raising privacy concerns.

For football fans, this means: arrive early, carry printed confirmations (hotels, match tickets), and avoid jokes or political comments at immigration. Travellers with dual citizenship should use the same passport for entry and exit to avoid red flags. The US still allows visa-free entry for 90 days from 40+ countries, but your eligibility depends on your nationality and travel history.

📍 Local insight: In LA, local police have partnered with FIFA to boost security during the World Cup. Expect bag checks, metal detectors, and ID scans at stadiums. Download the official LA 2026 app for real-time alerts and transit updates.

Paraguay: the dark horse for World Cup 2026 travellers seeking authenticity

Paraguay isn’t just a football underdog—it’s a travel one. While the world focuses on LA’s skyline, Paraguay offers something rarer: space to breathe. The country’s sole World Cup 2026 venue, the Defensores del Chaco in Asunción, holds just 42,000 fans—a stark contrast to LA’s cavernous stadiums. Here, you’ll rub shoulders with locals, not tourists, and feel the pulse of Paraguayan guaraní culture.

For travellers, Paraguay is a masterclass in contrasts. Asuncion’s colonial heart beats alongside modern malls. The Gran Chaco’s arid plains meet the lush Ypacaraí Lake. Jesuit ruins (a UNESCO site) stand as silent witnesses to colonial history, while the MERCOSUR Trade Tower pierces Asunción’s skyline. It’s a country where Spanish mixes with Guaraní, and tereré (a cold herbal tea) is a way of life.

💡 Pro tip: Learn basic Guaraní phrases. Locals appreciate the effort—even a simple Mba’eichapa (Hello) or Jopara (Thank you) breaks ice faster than broken Spanish.

Paraguay’s safety: what World Cup 2026 travellers must know

Paraguay’s crime rate is higher than the USA’s, but violence against tourists is rare. Petty theft—pickpocketing, bag snatching, and scams—is the main risk, especially in Asunción’s bus stations, markets, and crowded areas like Mercado 4. Violent crime tends to be localized (e.g., the Bañado Sur neighborhood) and rarely targets foreigners.

To stay safe:

• Use registered taxis (e.g., Uber, Taxi Paraguari) or ride-sharing apps. Avoid hailing cabs on the street.
• Don’t walk alone at night, even in tourist areas. Stick to well-lit streets and busy areas.
• Keep valuables hidden. Use a cross-body bag with a zipper, and avoid flashing phones or cameras.
• Download the Alerta Paraguay app for real-time safety alerts and emergency contacts.

📍 Local insight: Paraguayan police have increased patrols near tourist sites during World Cup 2026. Still, locals advise: “If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.” Scams include “friendly” strangers offering cheap tours or overpriced souvenirs.

Paraguay’s visa policies for World Cup 2026 travellers: who needs one?

Paraguay offers visa-free entry for up to 90 days to citizens of 100+ countries, including EU nations, Canada, Australia, and Japan. US citizens can enter visa-free for 90 days, but must show proof of onward travel (e.g., a flight out of Asunción within 90 days).

Travellers from visa-required countries (e.g., India, Pakistan, most African nations) must apply for a tourist visa at the nearest Paraguayan embassy or consulate. Processing takes 5–10 business days and costs $60–120, depending on nationality. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months’ validity.

⚠️ Heads up: Paraguay does not stamp passports on entry/exit for visa-free travellers. Keep your airline boarding pass and immigration receipt as proof of legal stay—you’ll need it to exit.

Cost comparison: Paraguay vs USA for World Cup 2026 travellers

📖 See also: Fès Travel Guide

Travelling to Paraguay for the World Cup isn’t just cheaper—it’s radically cheaper. A mid-range meal in Asunción costs $8–12, while a similar meal in LA runs $20–30. Budget hotels in Paraguay start at $25/night (e.g., Hostal La Misión), compared to $150+ in LA. Public transport is a steal: a bus ride across Asunción costs $0.50, while a Metro ride in LA is $1.75.

⚠️ Heads up: Paraguay’s ATMs charge high fees (up to $5 per withdrawal). Withdraw larger amounts (e.g., $100) and use ATMs inside banks (e.g., Banco Regional, Itaú) to avoid skimming scams.

Paraguay’s hidden costs: what travellers overlook

While Paraguay is cheap, some costs sneak up:

• SIM cards: Local providers (Tigo, Personal, Claro) sell SIMs at kiosks for $5–10, but top-up credit expires in 30 days. Buy from official stores to avoid fakes.
• Tours: Day trips to Areguá or the Ypacaraí Lake cost $20–30, but independent travel is cheaper ($5–10 for buses). Negotiate prices upfront.
• Laundry: Most hostels charge $5–8 for a wash—cheaper than LA’s $12–15 laundromats.
• Tipping: Not expected, but rounding up (e.g., $10 → $12) is appreciated.

Getting around: Paraguay’s transport vs LA’s transit maze

Paraguay’s transport network is basic but functional. Buses (e.g., Flecha Amarilla, Omega) connect cities cheaply ($5–15 for 3–5 hour trips). Trains are limited to short routes near Asunción. Domestic flights (e.g., Paranair) are expensive ($100–150) and infrequent—only useful for long distances.

For World Cup 2026 travellers, the key is to plan ahead. Buses run frequently between Asunción, Encarnación, and Ciudad del Este, but schedules change. Download Moovit or Google Maps for real-time updates. Taxis are affordable but unmetered—agree on a price before riding.

💡 Pro tip: Buy bus tickets in advance at official stations (e.g., Terminal de Ómnibus de Asunción). Avoid touts selling “cheap” tickets—scams target tourists.

LA’s transit: a traveller’s guide to moving around the city

LA’s public transit is improving but remains car-centric. The Metro (subway/bus) covers major areas, but service is slow outside downtown. A 7-day pass costs $25, while single rides are $1.75. Ride-sharing (Uber, Lyft) dominates, with fares ranging from $10–30 depending on distance.

For stadium access:

• SoFi Stadium: Use the Metro Expo Line to Hawthorne/Lennox Station, then a free shuttle.
• Banc of California Stadium: Take the Metro Blue Line to 7th St/Metro Center, then a 15-minute walk.
• Rose Bowl: Use the Metro Gold Line to Allen Station, then a shuttle or ride-share ($15–20 from downtown).

📍 Local insight: LA’s traffic is legendary. Leave 90 minutes early for stadium trips. Traffic apps (Waze, Google Maps) are essential—real-time alerts save hours.

Where to stay: luxury in LA vs local charm in Paraguay

Los Angeles offers every accommodation tier, from hostels ($30/night) to five-star hotels ($1,000+/night). For World Cup 2026, consider:

• Downtown LA: The Freehand Los Angeles ($120/night) for social vibes.
• Santa Monica: The Georgian Hotel ($250/night) for beach access.
• Long Beach: Hotel Breakers ($180/night) for affordability and transit links.

Paraguay’s lodging is simpler but authentic. In Asunción:

• Hostels: Casa Mita ($15/night) for a social atmosphere.
• Budget: Hotel Guaraní ($40/night) for central location and pool.
• Boutique: Loma San Jerónimo ($80/night) for a colonial retreat in Areguá.

⚠️ Heads up: Paraguay’s power cuts are rare but possible. Pack a power bank and download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me).

Food and drink: Paraguay’s tereré vs LA’s global eats

Paraguay’s cuisine is hearty and unique—think sopa paraguaya (cornbread), chipá (cheese bread), and asado (grilled meat). Street food is cheap ($1–3), but hygiene varies. Stick to busy stalls and watch food being prepared. For sit-down meals, restaurants like Tierra Colorada (Asuncion) serve local dishes for $5–10.

LA’s food scene is a global buffet. For World Cup 2026, try:

• Koreatown: Kang Ho-dong Baekjeong for Korean BBQ ($20–30).
• Little Tokyo: Marugame Udon for udon noodles ($10–15).
• Chinatown: Yang Chow for dim sum ($15–25).

📍 Local insight: In Paraguay, always ask for agua hervida (boiled water) or bottled water. Tap water is safe in Asunción but not in rural areas.

Top 5 things World Cup 2026 travellers must pack for Paraguay

📖 See also: Mexico City Travel Guide

1. Lightweight, breathable clothing: Paraguay’s winter (June–August) is mild (20–28°C), but humidity spikes in cities. Pack layers and a light jacket.
2. Sunscreen and hat: The sun is intense even in winter. SPF 50+ is a must.
3. Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets in Asunción and Encarnación ruin sneakers. Bring broken-in shoes.
4. Universal power adapter: Paraguay uses Type C plugs (220V). Bring a multi-USB adapter.
5. Offline maps and translator: Download Google Maps and Google Translate (with Guaraní pack) before arrival.

Top 5 things World Cup 2026 travellers must pack for the USA

1. Layered clothing: LA’s evenings can drop to 15°C, even in summer. A light jacket is essential.
2. Comfortable shoes: You’ll walk 10–15 km/day at stadiums. Break in new shoes beforehand.
3. Portable charger: LA’s stadiums have limited outlets. A 20,000mAh battery lasts 3–4 days.
4. Reusable water bottle: LA’s tap water is safe, but stadiums charge $5 for bottled water.
5. Fan gear: LA’s June heat (30–35°C) demands breathable fabrics and a cap.

7 must-see places in Paraguay for World Cup 2026 travellers

1. Asunción’s historic center: Plaza de Armas, Panteón Nacional de los Héroes, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. Walk the Costanera riverside promenade at sunset.
2. Areguá: A 45-minute bus ride from Asunción, this colonial town is known for its orange groves and tereré culture. Visit Casa de la Cultura for local art.
3. Ypacaraí Lake: Paraguay’s most famous lake offers kayaking ($10/hour), lakeside posadas (guesthouses), and the annual Festival del Lago in June.
4. Encarnación: A 3-hour bus ride south, this riverside city blends German and Paraguayan culture. Visit the Tren del Che museum and Costanera boardwalk.
5. San Bernardino: A 1-hour drive from Asunción, this lakeside resort town is where locals escape the heat. Rent a kayak or take a boat tour.
6. Jesuit Missions of La Santísima Trinidad and Jesús: UNESCO-listed ruins 200 km east of Asunción. Hire a guide ($20) for a 2-hour tour.
7. Gran Chaco: For adventurers, this remote wilderness offers eco-lodges (e.g., Fortín Toledo) and wildlife spotting. Fly to Filadelfia ($100) or take a 12-hour bus ride.

💡 Pro tip: Paraguay’s tereré culture is a social ritual. Accept a cup from a local—it’s a sign of friendship. Refuse politely if you’re not comfortable.

How to blend World Cup 2026 travel with cultural immersion

For travellers who want more than football, Paraguay offers deep cultural experiences:

• Language exchange: Join a tereré circle in Plaza Uruguaya (Asunción) on Sundays. Locals practice English while sipping the herbal tea.
• Cooking class: Learn to make sopa paraguaya and chipá at Taller de Cocina Paraguaya ($25).
• Volunteer: Work with Fundación Paraguaya on community projects in rural areas.
• Music and dance: Attend a polka paraguaya performance at Teatro Municipal (Asunción).

In LA, cultural immersion means stepping off the tourist trail:

• Arts District: Street art tours (e.g., The Underground Tour) reveal LA’s creative side.
• Little Tokyo: Join a taiko drumming workshop ($30).
• Koreatown: Take a kimchi making class ($40) at Seoul Tofu House.

World Cup 2026 travel logistics: flights, tickets, and timelines

Flights to Paraguay vs USA

• Paraguay: Fly into Silvio Pettirossi International Airport (ASU) in Asunción. Major airlines include LATAM, Avianca, and Copa Airlines. From Europe, LATAM offers direct flights from Madrid ($500–700) or connect via São Paulo ($600–900). From the US, Copa Airlines flies via Panama ($400–600).
• USA: Fly into LAX. Major airlines (Delta, United, LATAM) offer direct flights from Europe ($700–1,200). From Latin America, LATAM and Avianca have multiple daily flights ($300–500).

Match tickets: what travellers need to know

• Paraguay games: Tickets go on sale via Conmebol or FIFA’s official portal. Prices range from $50–200 for group-stage matches. Resale is risky—stick to official channels.
• USA games: Tickets sell out fast. Check StubHub or Ticketmaster for secondary markets, but expect 2–3x face value. Use SeatGeek for price comparisons.

Timelines for travellers

• Paraguay: Book flights 6–9 months ahead. Accommodation fills up 4–6 months early. Apply for visas (if required) 3–4 months ahead.
• USA: Book flights 9–12 months ahead for best prices. Accommodation books up 6–8 months early. Check ESTA/Visa requirements 4–6 months ahead.

⚠️ Heads up: Paraguay’s World Cup 2026 games are in June–July 2026. LA’s games are spread over June–July. Avoid LA’s Independence Day (July 4) if you’re sensitive to crowds.

📝 Editor’s note

GlobalSilentWalks Editorial searched beyond the hype to bring you real, practical advice. Whether you’re cheering in LA or Asuncion, travel smart—your experience starts with knowing the facts. This is the unfiltered guide you won’t find elsewhere.

Final checklist: are you ready for World Cup 2026?

For Paraguay-bound travellers:

1. Documents: Passport (6+ months validity), visa (if required), return ticket, travel insurance.
2. Health: Yellow fever vaccine (if coming from endemic countries), routine vaccines (hepatitis A/B, typhoid).
3. Money: USD cash ($200–300 for emergencies), credit card (Visa/Mastercard accepted in cities), Paraguayan guaraní (PYG) for markets.
4. Tech: Offline maps, translator app, power bank, universal adapter.
5. Packing: Lightweight clothes, sunscreen, hat, comfortable shoes, reusable water bottle.

For USA-bound travellers:

1. Documents: Passport (6+ months validity), ESTA/Visa (if required), match tickets, travel insurance.
2. Health: Routine vaccines (measles, flu shot recommended). No special shots needed.
3. Money: USD cash ($100–200 for emergencies), credit card (Visa/Mastercard widely accepted), contactless payments.
4. Tech: Offline maps, translator (Spanish/English), portable charger, LA Metro app.
5. Packing: Layers, comfortable shoes, cap, sunscreen, reusable water bottle.

💡 Pro tip: Paraguay’s tereré is best enjoyed in a guampa (traditional cup) with ice. Buy one as a souvenir ($5–10) and use it throughout your trip.

World Cup 2026 is more than a tournament—it’s a chance to explore two wildly different worlds. Paraguay offers authenticity, affordability, and a slower pace, while the USA delivers spectacle, convenience, and diversity. Your choice depends on what you value: the thrill of LA’s urban energy or the warmth of Paraguay’s rural charm.

No matter where you go, travel smart. Book early, pack light, and leave room for spontaneity. The best World Cup memories aren’t just about the games—they’re about the people you meet and the places you discover along the way.

Editor’s note: GlobalSilentWalks Editorial spent months researching visa policies, safety reports, and local insights to bring you this guide. We prioritize real experiences over hype, so you can travel with confidence. Whether you’re cheering in Asunción or SoFi Stadium, travel mindfully—your journey starts with knowledge.

Sources consulted: UN Tourism (UNWTO) (global tourism trends and standards), Rick Steves (independent travel advice and itineraries) and Lonely Planet (up-to-date practical travel information).