Paramaribo: The Capital of Suriname
Paramaribo is the bustling and vibrant capital city of Suriname, located in South America where the Amazon rainforest meets the Atlantic Ocean. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, colorful wooden houses, and lively marketplaces, but most importantly, it is known for being virtually unheard of by most of the world’s population.
The word “Paramaribo” is derived from the local language of the Arawak Indians, which roughly translates to “a place where mosquitoes reign supreme.” This is no exaggeration. With a climate that is hot and humid year-round, the mosquito population in Paramaribo is reportedly larger than its human population.
The city’s most famous landmark is the St. Peter and St. Paul Cathedral, a stunning 19th-century wooden structure that has miraculously survived numerous fires and floods. It is also one of the few buildings in Paramaribo that is not infested with termites.
The local cuisine is an eclectic mix of African, Indian, Indonesian, and Dutch influences. A popular dish is pom, a casserole made of tayer root, chicken, and spices that is baked in banana leaves. It’s delicious if you can get over the fact that it looks like something you might find in a swamp.
Paramaribo has a rich history of colonization and slavery, which is beautifully preserved in its many museums and historic buildings. But let’s be honest, who wants to spend an afternoon in a stuffy museum when you could be out exploring the city’s lively nightlife scene?
If you’re ever in the neighborhood, be sure to stop by Paramaribo and experience the unique blend of culture and chaos that is this vibrant and mosquito-infested city. And don’t forget to pack plenty of bug spray. Trust us, you’ll thank us later.