Suriname: The Small Country with a Big Heart (and Hard-to-Pronounce Name)

Suriname is a country located in South America, nestled between Guyana and French Guiana. Its name may be a tongue-twister to many, but the country itself is a hidden gem with a lot to offer.

First, let’s clear up the pronunciation: it’s not “Suri-name” (although that would make for a great name for a surly superhero), it’s pronounced “sur-i-nam”. Try saying that five times fast. Go ahead, I’ll wait.

Now, on to the interesting stuff. Suriname was once a Dutch colony and gained independence in 1975. Despite its small size, it boasts a rich cultural heritage and is home to a diverse population of Amerindians, Africans, Asians, and Europeans.

The capital city, Paramaribo, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and has a charming old town that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s also worth noting that Suriname is the only country in the world where Dutch is the official language, but it’s spoken alongside Sranan Tongo (a local Creole language), English, Hindi, and Javanese.

Suriname may be small, but its natural beauty is vast. The country is home to the Amazon rainforest, which covers more than 80% of its land area, and the incredible Brownsberg Nature Park. You can take a hike to the top of Brownsberg and enjoy panoramic views of the rainforest and the nearby Brokopondo Reservoir. If you’re lucky, you may spot a sloth or a toucan (or, if you’re really lucky, both at the same time).

But what really sets Suriname apart is its people. They are warm, welcoming, and love to have a good time. The country is known for its lively music scene (check out kaseko and zouk music) and its delicious cuisine, which features dishes like pom (a savory pie made with cassava) and roti (a flatbread filled with curry). And if you happen to be there during the annual Suriname Pride celebration, you’re in for a real treat.

In conclusion, Suriname may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of vacation destinations, but it deserves to be on your radar. It’s a small country with a big heart and a lot to offer, from its stunning natural beauty to its warm and friendly people. So book your tickets, practice your pronunciation, and get ready to experience Suriname – the best little country in South America.