A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Suriname: A Hidden Treasure in the Caribbean

Suriname, officially known as the Republic of Suriname, is a country located on the northeast coast of South America. It is one of the least known and visited countries in the Caribbean, but that does not mean it lacks beauty and charm. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, Suriname is a destination worth exploring.

Paramaribo: The Jewel of Suriname

The capital of Suriname, Paramaribo, is a city full of history and culture. The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with beautiful wooden colonial houses, bustling markets, and a fascinating mix of cultural influences. Don't miss the St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral, the Neveh Shalom Synagogue, and the Keizerstraat Mosque, which reflect the city's religious diversity.

Central Suriname Nature Reserve

The Central Suriname Nature Reserve is the largest tropical rainforest reserve in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can explore the rainforest, see a wide variety of wildlife, and visit the stunning Raleighvallen and Voltzberg waterfalls.

Brownsberg National Park

Brownsberg National Park is another popular destination for nature lovers. The park is known for its bird diversity and offers excellent opportunities for hiking and wildlife watching. From the top of Brownsberg Mountain, you can enjoy panoramic views of the rainforest and Brokopondo Lake.

Maroon and Amerindian Community

Suriname is home to several indigenous and Maroon communities, descendants of African slaves who escaped from plantations in the 17th century. Visiting these communities is an excellent way to learn about their unique traditions and ways of life.

Culture and Cuisine

Suriname's culture is a fascinating mix of African, indigenous, Hindu, Javanese, and Chinese influences. This diversity is reflected in the country's music, dance, and cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try local dishes like roti, moksi-alesi, and pom.

Travel Tips

Suriname is a tropical country, so be sure to wear light and comfortable clothing, as well as a good insect repellent. The official currency is the Surinamese dollar. English is widely spoken, in addition to Dutch and Sranan Tongo.

Gastronomic Products of Suriname

• Roti

  Roti is a popular dish in Suriname that originated in India. It consists of a flat, unleavened bread served with a variety of fillings, such as chicken, lamb, duck, or vegetables. Roti is traditionally eaten with the hands and is a common dish at celebrations and family events.

• Pom

  Pom is a traditional Surinamese dish served on special occasions. It is made with pomtajer root, chicken, onion, tomato, and is often seasoned with nutmeg and pepper. The pom is baked until golden and served hot. It is a tasty and unique dish that is a true reflection of Suriname's culinary diversity.

• Bakabana

  Bakabana is a popular snack in Suriname. It consists of ripe bananas that are sliced, battered in a flour paste, and then fried until golden. Bakabanas are often served with a spicy tamarind sauce and are a delicious and sweet snack that is loved by locals and tourists alike.

• Bojo

  Bojo is a traditional Surinamese dessert made with cassava and coconut. The cassava and coconut are grated and then mixed with sugar, eggs, and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. The mixture is baked until golden and served cold. Bojo is a delicious and unique dessert that is a true reflection of Suriname's culinary diversity.

Sporting Activities in Suriname

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Suriname. Tourists can enjoy a match at the Andre Kamperveen Stadium, which is the home of the Suriname national soccer team.

Fishing

Suriname, with its numerous rivers and Atlantic coastline, offers excellent opportunities for fishing. Tourists can catch a variety of species, including tiger fish and catfish.

Cycling

Cycling is an excellent way to explore Suriname. Tourists can rent bicycles and tour the capital, Paramaribo, or venture into the country's interior.

Hiking

Suriname is home to a large number of national parks and nature reserves, making it an ideal destination for hiking. Tourists can explore the rainforest, with the possibility of seeing a variety of wildlife.

Water Sports

With its location in the Caribbean, Suriname offers a variety of water sports. Tourists can enjoy activities such as diving, snorkeling, surfing, and kayaking.

Places near Suriname

If you are in Suriname and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Trinidad and Tobago, a Caribbean paradise, offers dreamy beaches, vibrant music festivals, and a unique cuisine, a blend of Indian, African, and Creole influences, with dishes such as roti, callaloo, and the famous "bake and shark".

Martinique, France's Caribbean gem, offers paradisiacal beaches, lush mountains, and a rich Creole culture. Its cuisine stands out, fusing French and Caribbean flavors, with dishes such as chicken colombo and cod accras.

Barbados, a Caribbean jewel, offers paradisiacal beaches, water sports and a rich colonial history. Its cuisine is a feast of flavors, highlighting the flying fish, local rum and Creole cuisine, which will delight the most demanding palates.