Paramaribo, the capital of Suriname in South America, is similar to the small Netherlands. The fact that the city remained under Dutch colonialism for many years testifies to the influence on architecture and urban planning. In Paramaribo, a UNESCO world heritage site in 2002, there live people of different ethnic origin. People here are cheerful and hospitable. The streets are filled with the delicious smell of chocolate, cocoa and coffee. Paramaribo as if clamped in the lush greenery of nature and surrounded by beautiful beaches. In the capital of Surinam, you can do all kinds of outdoor sports, you can see dolphins and have a great swim.
Paramaribo / Surinam How to Get There?
Citizens of most European, South American and North American countries require a visa to enter Paramaribo. The cost of a visa is approximately $ 40. Direct flights to Suriname are from Amsterdam, France, Germany and America, Great Britain. In Paramaribo you can choose a taxi to get around the city, as the network of city buses is not developed. Even if you decide to walk around the city, the colorful streets and performances of local artists will bring you great pleasure.
Information about Paramaribo / Surinam
Suriname was discovered in 1499 by the Spaniard Alonso de Ojeda. In 1650, the British expelled the Spaniards and settled the territory. After 1667 Suriname became a Dutch colony. The coexistence of different ethnic groups in the region was created by attracting slaves from Africa, India and Java in the 17th century. Paramaribo’s magic is born from the harmony of this different social and ethnic structure of society.
We recommend you to start your trip around the city exploring Independence square. Here is the Presidential Palace of the 18th century and many other buildings of the colonial era. The presidential Palace opens its doors to visitors only on November 25, the day of the celebration of the Independence Day of Suriname. The square is the busiest area in the city, also offers quality places to eat. The best place to see all the variety of Paramaribo culture and local crafts is Tex Art Gallery. You can also buy Souvenirs at souvenir shops selling copies of Museum sketches of the history of art of Suriname.
The Cathedral and Basilica of St. Peter and Paul were restored in 2014. The beauty of the Cathedral amazes tourists. The Neva Shalom synagogue is perhaps the most beautiful synagogue in the world. The building, which is the only synagogue of the Ashkenazi community, was built in the 18th century, and its architectural harmony with the Keyserstraat mosque, which is just around the corner, is of great interest. Next, your walking route can take you to the busiest part of the city – the Central market. On the first floor of the two-floor market you will find tropical fruits, local delicacies, fish, vegetables and clothes on the second floor. In this market you can buy authentic clothes, local handmade products, wooden products. Here are also sold bones and shells used by locals in various rituals.
Accommodation in Paramaribo / Surinam
In Paramaribo, you will find comfortable hotels, hostels, guest houses of different price categories.
Guesthouse de Kleine Historie: the hotel is located in the center of Paramaribo. The hotel has an airport pick-up service. This is the most comfortable hotel you can choose with a warm atmosphere that makes guests feel at home.
Countyard by Marriott Paramaribo: it is a modern, air-conditioned hotel with luxurious rooms, an outdoor pool, a rich menu of restaurants and a bar.
