This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Paramaribo.
Paramaribo, Suriname, is the capital and largest city of Suriname. Here, you will find the city alive with a diverse mix of its colonial Dutch heritage and Creole influences. Within the old part of the city, you will find Fort Zeelandia, which offers free tours on Sundays, and streets lined with newly resorted Colonial-style buildings. You can see the city on foot, or in true Dutch style, rent a bike from Zus & Zo, which is located by the city's main park Palmentuin.
The city is very multicultural and diverse and you can find different areas within the city that reflect this. There are Dutch, Indonesian, Indian, Brazilian, and Chinese areas, each with their own flair. Food lovers will adore this mix -- it's possible to chow down on delicious Indian roti for just a few dollars, sample the street food and its array of Creole creations, or dine in style in a Chinese hot pot restaurant.
Paramaribo offers a range of accommodation options, however here it is more common to find guesthouses (often called posadas). Many posadas do not have websites, so you will either need to walk in or phone to make a reservation. There are hotels further away from the old town, toward central market and beyond, but these tend to be located in less desirable areas and are not well maintained. It is more advisable to keep to the old town.
Many guesthouses in old town are in beautiful Colonial houses and will offer guests the option of having a private room or dorm or sleeping outside in a hammock, the latter of which is a much cheaper option for solo travelers. For more of the vibe of a hostel in Paramaribo, Suriname, there exist several options, and it is also possible to find more upscale lodging options. These tend to be large, luxurious-looking hotels.
Paramaribo is a charming city in which you could happily spend a few days. It is also a useful base for visiting the interior of Suriname, as it is well connected to other major cities, and many agencies offer jungle or river tours.
Written by local enthusiast for Paramaribo hostels
Chloe