Asuncion, the capital of Paraguay is located in the middle of South America. Established during the 16th century by Spaniards who had traveled across the Atlantic Ocean, the city proved to be a convenient and strategic base for colonial development. Rather than fighting with the Spaniards, the indigenous Guarani chose to protect their bloodline by entering into alliances and intermarriage with the conquerors. Thus the Guarani culture is still a vital part of life in Asuncion today. In this episode we explore Asuncion and meet its residents who love their traditions and their distinctive culture.

Ayutthaya is the city that flourished as the royal capital of Thailand from the mid-14th century for about 400 years. The Ayutthaya Kingdom utilized its topographical advantage of being surrounded by rivers to flourish as a trade hub connecting Europe with Asia. The ruins of the Buddhist temples of that era are collectively designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and they attract tourists from all over the world. In this episode we explore Ayutthaya and meet its residents who love their traditions and their distinctive culture.