A Saturday Symphony of Sound

On a calm Saturday morning, the tranquil chirp of birds and multi-colored parrots streaking the sky is interrupted by a lovely cacophony of sounds.

At 6 AM, the first act makes its move: a Chipa vendor on a motorcycle, retrofitted with booming speakers, cruises down the quiet streets broadcasting his catchy tune:

“Chipa Chipa, Chipa Barrero, Chipa almidón, Chipa so’o, crocante, calentita, ¡venga que pruebe!”

Check out one of the chipa vendors

This melody, infused with nostalgia, is known to every Paraguayan.

Almost every type of Chipa, a beloved Paraguayan cheese bread, is strapped on his motorcycle. He makes his rounds in the early dawn, providing a warm, crispy delight for breakfast. Security guards who've had a long night, folks waking up, or children getting ready for school flag him down as he drives by. But his performance doesn't end there. After restocking back at home, he often returns in the afternoon for those that crave a snack during merienda [a midday meal to keep your stomach satisfied ill dinner late at 9, often accompanied with tereré].

As the day warms, another familiar sound dances through the air: the high-pitched whistle of an elderly man pushing a small blue ice cart filled with refreshing ice cream, or helado. When I first moved here, I thought its high pitched chirp was some sort of bird. But after later realization, it's unmistakable tone falls right between that of a bird and a whistle, and is enough to persuade anyone outside on a hot day for a sweet treat.

Later in the afternoon, around 5 PM, the roads come alive once again as a vendor selling Bollos—a type of hole-less doughnut filled with creamy dulce de leche or guayaba—passes by, offering a sweet indulgence to those seeking a treat.

In Paraguay, the roads are never empty, and there’s always a chance to satisfy your cravings. Whether it’s a warm Chipa, a refreshing ice treat, or a sweet Bollo, the vibrant day-long symphony of sounds and flavors of the streets ensure that your belly will never go hungry.

Some have even turned the classic chipa tune into a disco version....