The Wild West of South America
Paramaribo
Where the Dutch lifestyle meets the Wild West of Paramibo, the most lively capitals in the Guianas. Many visiting Suriname spend their time in the city to take in the picturesque colonial center which has become an UNESCO World Heritage Site. The colonial Dutch buildings that are lined along the grassy squares collide with the aroma of spices coming from the Indian roti shops. The locals are proud of their city and their multi-ethnicity and especially proud where mosques and synagogues reside peacefully next to each other.
Getting Here
Air
Paramaribo has two airports: Zorg-en-Hoop and Johan Pengel International Airport.
Zorgo-en-Hoop serves domestic and Guyana flights.
Johan Pengel International Airport is about 30 miles south from the city center. It has flights from Europe, specifically Amsterdam, three times a week with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.
Getting Around
Bicycle
Just like the Dutch, you’ll find many locals cruising around on bikes. It’s a great way to explore the city and also the outskirts of town. With it’s crucial sun, make sure to wear and pack sunblock and try to remain in the shade as much as possible.
You can rent road and mountain bike for SR$17/day. Helmets aren’t worn as often and can be hard to find.
Bus
In the country, most buses are private but drivers still follow a specific route. Buses leave the station when it is completely full so the schedule is inconsistent throughout the day. You can find most of the buses departing from Heiligenweg.
Water Taxi
Water taxis depart from Platte Brug dock on Waterkant. They’re both fast and frequent.
Atmosphere and Culture
When to Go
Paramaribo has a tropical climate where there isn’t a true dry season. The whole year tends to be wet but it does have a few months that are rainier and drier than others. From September to November, considered as “autumn”, are the driest months of the year. The temperature also stay quite consistent throughout the year with the high being about 90 degrees F and the low being 70 degrees F.
Safety
When it comes to crime, violent crime along with petty crime is common in the city and surrounding areas. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit but be cautious at all times. Unfortunately, foreigners tend be to targeted so make sure to only bring items that are needed when you step out and don’t dress flashy.
Leave all valuable and personal belongings secure at all times and avoid walking alone after dark.
Health
Four to six weeks before traveling, it’s best to make sure that you’re up-to-date on routine vaccinations. When traveling to Suriname, there are some vaccines that are recommended which are Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and Yellow Fever.
Due to the amount of mosquitos, prescription medication to prevent malaria can be brought to take. The vaccine to prevent rabies from stray animals can be taken as well.
Accommodation
The development in the city has Paramaribo upgrading their sources of accommodation. There are hotels and guesthouses popping up throughout the city while older ones get renovated. In Paramaribo, there’s something for everyone - from 15 euro sing rooms in basic guesthouses to 100 euro or more to stay in an upscale resort.
Many hotels tend to charge in US dollar or euros, they will accept Surinamese dollars but make sure to check in advance.
Eating
Paramaribo’s cuisine portrays the diverse culture in the city with Chinese, Javanese, and Hindustan influences.
What to Eat:
Beans
Cassava
Rice
Roti
Sweet potato
What To See
What to See and Do:
Central Market
Neveh Shalom Synagogue
Fort Zeelandia
Onafhankelijkheidsplein (Independence Square)
St. Peter and Paul Cathedral
Keizerstraat
Stichting Surinaams Museum
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