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Pre-Trip Checklist Part 1

Pre-Trip Checklist Part 1

The Guianas

Essential Preparations

Comprehensive Travel Guide

A systematic approach to trip planning.

1

Phase 1: Long-Term 3+ Months

Passport Check

Validity for six months beyond departure.

Visa/E-Tourist Card

Research and apply based on nationality.

Health Consult

Vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.

2

Phase 2: Mid-Term 1-2 Months

Accommodation Booking

Major eco-lodges or specific tours, due to limited spots.

Airport Transfers

Arrange from Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport.

Travel Insurance

Acquire comprehensive medical, cancellation, lost baggage coverage. World Nomads is an option for travel insurance.

3

Phase 3: Short-Term 2-4 Weeks

Confirm Bookings

Flights, accommodations, tours.

Packing List

Begin compiling; acquire specific gear like repellent, adapter, first aid kit. Eagle Creek has packing organizers.

Bank Notification

Inform bank and credit card companies of travel plans.

Pre-Trip Research

Read about Surinamese history and culture. This builds your country knowledge. Learn basic Dutch or Sranan Tongo phrases.

Areas

  • Cultural background.
  • Basic phrases (Sranan Tongo).
  • Historical events.
  • Local customs.

Home Preparation

Secure your home, arrange mail or pet care if needed. Inform a trusted person of your itinerary and emergency contacts.

Checklist Items

  • Home security check.
  • Mail collection arrangement.
  • Pet care organization.
  • Share itinerary with trusted contact.

Travel Essentials

Ensure you have all necessary items and information.

Document Readiness

  • Flight reconfirmation.
  • Offline maps & apps download.
  • Copies of important documents.
  • Charge all electronics.

Financial Preparedness

  • Local currency (SRD).
  • USD or Euros for exchange.
  • Notify bank/credit card company.
  • International Driving Permit.

Health & Safety Kit

  • Insect repellent.
  • Power adapter.
  • First aid kit.
  • Comprehensive travel insurance.

Important Reminders

Passport validity and visa procurement are critical early steps. Comprehensive insurance for travel safety provides security.

Arrival Checklist

Steps for a smooth transition upon arriving in Suriname.

First Steps

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Clear immigration and customs with your passport, E-Tourist Card or E-Visa confirmation.

  • 2
    Baggage Claim:

    Collect luggage from baggage claim.

  • 3
    Currency & SIM:

    Exchange currency or withdraw Surinamese Dollars from an ATM at the airport. Purchase a local SIM card.

Orientation & Transit

  • Neighborhood Familiarization:

    Once at your accommodation, locate it on a map and become familiar with the immediate neighborhood. Identify nearby ATMs, pharmacies, and shops.

  • Physical Map:

    Get a physical map of Paramaribo, if you do not have one, for navigation.

  • Airport Transfer:

    Use your pre-booked transfer or select from official airport taxis.

Initial Actions Upon Arrival

Currency Exchange

Exchange enough cash for immediate needs, like your taxi fare from the airport or your first meal.

ATMs are available at the airport for withdrawals.

Local SIM Card

Acquire a local SIM card if you plan to use one for phone calls and data during your stay.

This ensures continuous connectivity.

Transport to Accommodation

Proceed to your pre-arranged transfer or find a reputable taxi to your accommodation.

Official airport taxis are available.

Arrival Efficiency

Having your E-Tourist Card or E-Visa confirmation ready streamlines immigration. Currency exchange at the airport yields immediate funds.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure for a stress-free end to your trip.

Pre-Flight Tasks

  • Souvenir Shipping: Investigate shipping costs and customs regulations for your home country. This prevents issues at the airport.
  • VAT Refund: Suriname does not operate a formal VAT (Value Added Tax) refund system for tourists.
  • Return Trip Confirmation: Confirm your return flight details with your airline.
  • Local Currency: Secure sufficient local currency for airport transfers and final airport purchases.

Logistics & Timing

  • Airport Arrival: Arrive at Johan Adolf Pengel International Airport (PBM) 2-3 hours before your international flight.
  • Time Allowance: Allow extra time for potential traffic or unexpected delays when traveling from Paramaribo to the airport.
  • Travel Route: Plan your route to the airport considering peak hours.
  • Final Check: Double-check all travel documents before leaving your accommodation.

Departure Checklist

Confirm all flight details and possess adequate local currency for final expenses.

Checking customs regulations for souvenirs prevents last-minute complications.