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Resources & References Part 1

Resources & References Part 1

The Guianas

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

  • Google Maps/Maps.me:

    Download offline maps for navigation; useful in areas with limited internet. Maps.me often displays detailed trails for nature areas.

  • Google Translate:

    Download Dutch and Sranan Tongo language packs for offline use, addressing language barriers.

  • WhatsApp:

    This app is widely used by locals and tour operators for communication. It aids in coordinating plans and making inquiries.

  • Weather App:

    A reliable weather app monitors conditions, especially important given Suriname's distinct rainy and dry seasons.

  • Digital Tools:

Useful Websites

  • Suriname Tourism Foundation:

    The official tourism website is a starting point for general information, though content may be limited or outdated.

  • Government of Suriname Official Portal:

    This portal is for official information regarding visas, entry requirements, and government services.

  • Embassy Websites:

    Check your country's embassy website in Suriname for travel advisories, security information, and consular services.

  • Tour Operator Websites:

    Research websites of local tour operators for detailed tour itineraries, package options, and booking information, especially for interior expeditions.

  • Social Media Accounts:

    Search for local tourism accounts, eco-lodges, and tour operators on Instagram or Facebook for visual inspiration and updates.

Print Resources

Guidebooks

Specific guidebooks solely for Suriname are less common. General South America or Guianas guidebooks may contain a section.

Physical Maps

A good physical map of Paramaribo and the country is very useful, especially where internet access is unavailable.

Local Publications

Local newspapers, like De Ware Tijd or Starnieuws, share current events and local perspectives.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 115. Keep your embassy or consulate contact details in Paramaribo ready.
  • Fire Department: 110.
  • Ambulance: 113.
  • Academic Hospital Paramaribo: Flustraat 1.

Lost Document Protocol

  • Passport: Report lost or stolen passports to local police immediately for a police report. Contact your embassy for emergency travel documents.
  • Credit Cards: Call your bank immediately to cancel lost or stolen credit cards, preventing unauthorized use.
  • Natural Disaster: In severe weather (heavy rains/flooding), heed local authority instructions. Monitor local news or consult your hotel/tour operator.
  • St. Vincentius Hospital: Koninginnestraat 4.

Further Reading & Exploration

Visual Media

  • Documentaries and films: Search for content on Surinamese culture, history, or unique nature (e.g., Central Suriname Nature Reserve).
  • Music and art: Explore Kaseko (Surinamese pop music), Kawina (traditional Maroon music), and chutney music (Indo-Surinamese).
  • Podcasts about the destination.
  • YouTube documentaries.

Community & Language

  • Online communities: Facebook groups like "Travel Suriname" or "Expats in Suriname" give real-time advice and recommendations.
  • Language learning: Use apps like Duolingo for basic Dutch.
  • Online resources for basic Sranan Tongo phrases.
  • Local forums for travelers.

Dives

  • Academic papers on regional ethnography.
  • Geopolitical analyses of the Guianas.
  • Contemporary Surinamese artists and galleries.
  • Historical fiction novels.

Resources & References Part 2

Critical Information

Health Precautions

  • Consult a travel health clinic for vaccinations.
  • Discuss malaria prophylaxis for risk areas.
  • Practice food and water hygiene.
  • Pack a personal first aid kit.

Security Advisories

  • Check your country's embassy for updates.
  • Avoid isolated or poorly lit areas at night.
  • Exercise general caution, as in any unfamiliar place.
  • Secure valuables in hotel safes.

Local Laws

  • Respect local regulations.
  • Drug offenses carry severe penalties.
  • Photography restrictions may apply in some areas.
  • Follow traffic laws if driving.

Environmental Awareness

Nature Immersion

  • Explore pristine rainforests responsibly.
  • Observe local flora and fauna.
  • Discover river ecosystems.

Conservation Practices

  • Conserve water and electricity.
  • Minimize plastic waste.
  • Practice ethical wildlife photography.

Cultural Narratives

Historical Perspectives

  • "Wij slaven van Suriname" by Anton de Kom.
  • "Dubbeltje Op Zijn Kant" by Cynthia McLeod.
  • Colonial legacy and independence insights.

Local Expression

  • Listen to Kaseko, Kawina, and chutney music.
  • Explore local art forms.
  • Discover cultural performances.

Further Information Access

Online Communities

  1. Join "Travel Suriname" Facebook groups.
  2. Connect with "Expats in Suriname" for real-time advice.
  3. Seek recommendations from experienced travelers.
  4. Engage with locals in online forums.
  5. Receive updates on travel conditions.

Language Learning

  1. Utilize Duolingo for basic Dutch phrases.
  2. Search online for basic Sranan Tongo phrases.
  3. Practice greetings like "Fa waka?" (How are you?).
  4. Learn expressions of gratitude like "Grantangi" (Thank you).
  5. Polite phrases improve local interactions.

Digital Tool Insights

Offline Maps

Download Google Maps or Maps.me for navigation without internet access.

Translation Apps

Google Translate with Dutch and Sranan Tongo packs addresses language barriers.

Communication Apps

WhatsApp facilitates communication with locals and tour operators.

Safety Advisory

Always verify local conditions and safety information through official government travel advisories before and during your trip.

Resources & References Part 3

Reading for Immersion

Historical Context

  • "Wij slaven van Suriname"

    A foundational work on Surinamese history and anti-colonialism. It offers a powerful perspective on the country's past.

  • "Dubbeltje Op Zijn Kant"

    A historical fiction novel about a plantation, conveying insights into that era.

  • Scholarly Articles:

    Academic texts on Surinamese society and its multicultural development.

Contemporary Views

  • Documentaries:

    Films on Surinamese culture, history, or its unique nature (e.g., Central Suriname Nature Reserve).

  • Podcasts:

    Audio content exploring travel experiences and cultural aspects of Suriname.

  • Travel Blogs:

    Personal accounts and practical advice from other travelers to Suriname.

Getting Oriented

Regional Overview

Familiarize yourself with Suriname's place within South America and the Guianas.

Paramaribo Layout

Understand the main districts and attractions within the capital city.

Interior Expeditions

Gain a basic sense of major river systems and remote nature reserves.

Travel Essentials Access

Local ATMs & Banks

  • ATMs are available in Paramaribo and larger towns.
  • Major banks operate during standard business hours.
  • Currency exchange at reputable changers or banks.
  • Keep smaller denominations of Surinamese Dollars.

Connectivity Options

  • Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival for phone and data.
  • Wi-Fi access in most hotels and some cafes in Paramaribo.
  • Network coverage outside the capital may be limited.
  • Power adapter Type A, B, and F are common.

Health & Wellness

Pre-Travel Health

  • Consult a travel doctor for recommended vaccinations.
  • Discuss malaria prophylaxis if visiting interior regions.
  • Ensure routine immunizations are current.
  • Carry copies of prescriptions for personal medications.

During Your Trip

  • Drink bottled or purified water.
  • Practice good hand hygiene.
  • Use insect repellent and protective clothing.
  • Protect against sun exposure.

Comprehensive Preparedness

Equip yourself with digital and print resources for a smooth and informed journey.