For starters, Paraguay was ruled by a tinpot dictator who loathed Communism and would turn a blind eye to smuggling, gambling, drug-running and the odd fugitive.

The country also had a lot of Nazi helmets for sale in the antique stores and there were plenty of war memorials choking the countryside - perfect accompaniments in their dotage.

Or perhaps it was the country's famed tranquilo, a peculiarly Paraguayan state of mind that lulls you into cheery, relaxed peace.