10 Reasons to visit Suriname
Anani strand (Anani Beach) in Brokopondo |
1. multi-cultured society
It doesn't matter where you are from, what language you speak, or what your religion is.
When in Suriname you will certainly feel right at home. This former French, English and yes even Dutch colony is culturally diverse. The independent Republic of Suriname is home to Chinese, Javanese, Indian, Indigenous tribes, Brazilians, Maroons, and many more residents with different cultural backgrounds. You will also see a lot of Latin Americans in Suriname. Take me for example, I am what we would call a " dogla". That means I am a mix, I have Chinese, Scottish, Jewish, Creole, Javanese, Indian, Dutch, and Venezuelan ancestors. That is just me keeping the list short. Surinamese people are really tolerant of each other's religion. We are the only county in the world with a Synagogue right next to a Mosque.
2. The food
Chinese food In Suriname |
Javanese food in Suriname |
3. The people will understand you.
My friends who all speak more than 3 languages |
Even though the national language is Dutch because of the country's diverse culture and history you will soon find out that almost every Surinamese person is bilingual. To date, I have not met one Surinamese person that doesn't speak more than one language. In fact, most Surinamese people speak a minimum of three languages.
Some of the languages spoken in Suriname are:
- Dutch
- English
- Spanish
- Portuguese
- Sranan tongo
- Javanese ( Dialect created by Javanese Immigrants who settled in Suriname)
- Sarnami ( A Surinamese version of Hindi spoken by descendants of Indian immigrants)
- French ( There seems to be a lot of local interaction between Suriname and French Guyana)
- Mandarin
- Hawka
- Cantonese
And this list could go on for quite a while. Subscribe to my blog if you want an update on in-depth articles about Suriname.
4. Nature
Bronsberg Nature reserve in Brokopondo |
The deeper you go into the interior the more of the rainforest you will see. And it is breath-taking, if you are looking to relax and enjoy nature this is the place to be. We have diverse fauna and flora. Be sure to go swimming in our rivers and enjoy our waterfalls. Suriname is also rich in natural resources. We have gold, diamonds, bauxite, wood, oil, minerals, and lots of healthy fruits. But I wish that our Natural resources wouldn't be the reason for people to tear up places with such beautiful views. The animals in the Surinamese forest deserve a safe place. After all, this is the country where biologists from all over the world come to find extinct animals and plants. We have a lot of plants in our interior that can be used as natural medicines for different ailments. I guess I would have done it differently. But don't let that stop you from hiking in our backyards. If you can try to see it while it lasts.
5. The currency
A few drinks and an SRD 100,- bill. |
For you, as a tourist, the currency will certainly work in your favor. 1 Euro equals S.R.D (Surinamese Dollars) 8.21, which means with little pocket money you can go a long way.
Update: The government updated its policies to try to control a spiraling currency. The newly introduced unified currency rate as of November 2020 is $1 equals SRD 14,- and €1 equals |SRD16,62. To keep track of the recent currency you can visit the website of the Surinamese Central bank or any other local banks.
2022 Update: Due to massive inflation the currency of $1,- now equals SRD22,-
6. The hospitality of the Surinamese people
The sun setting in Suriname |
7. Being away from home doesn't mean that you can't practice your religion
I am a Hindu and when I visit certain countries finding a mandir (temple) can be a struggle. But when in Suriname, don't even worry about it. We have mosques, temples, churches, synagogues, and a lot of other religious temples for you to visit. If you want to know which one is nearby be sure to just ask.
8. Nightlife
A night of unexpected clubbing and pool. |
Since we are so diverse as people we have a lot of national holidays. Surinamese people enjoy sharing each other's holidays. When it is Idul fitre, everyone visits their Muslim friend for food. Phagwa, you will see onafhankelijkheid plein full of different people celebrating the powder festival.
So feel free to join the party and blend in.
10. The music and Beer
A view of the Commewijne river. |
even our clubs play Latin and House music. So it doesn't matter what your preference is, in Suriname, you will surely find something for yourself. When clubbing and even on the streets you will see most people drinking Parbo beer, a locally made beer that you have to taste to make your visit to Suriname complete.
Have you been to Suriname before
Comments
Post a Comment