Feels like The Netherlands

Today we "fietsed" to Nieuw Amsterdam

 

Chinese in Suriname

There is a very visible Chinese population in Suriname, which runs basically all supermarkets. They are typically pretty surprised to meet a Swiss who lives in China in Suriname...
A bit of mandarin can put amazing slimes on their faces.

Suriname

Former British & Dutch colony, independent since 1975 – Dutch speaking but left side driving

560’000 people, very mixed population

GDP/capita (nom/PPP) 8'500 / 12’400 USD, economy heavily relying on bauxite

Growth / Inflation 3.5% / 6.4

Famous people: Patrick Kluivert, Clarence Seedorf, Edgar Davids

 

Korou, French Guiana

After the independence of Algeria, France had to look for a new location to launch their rockets. Korou was chosen and a major space station was built. First by the French, later together with European partner countries. Today three programs are based there. Vega (small size), Soyuz (mid size) and Ariane 5 (large size).
Due to the proximity to the equator, the Soyuz rocket can carry twice the payload out of Korou compared to its base in Kazakhstan.

Korou, French Guiana

Jungle meat

There is plenty of legally hunted local meat available here. This is what was on offer in our restaurant today.

Cacao & Tresor, French Guiana

A road thru dense jungle leads to Cacao, where a community from Laos is living. It is a unique feeling to be in South America, knowing that you are in the EU but you are surrounded by Asian people serving Asian food.
We were there on January first and were invited to a glass of champagne in the church...

Cacao & Tresor, French Guiana

Cayenne, French Guiana

A little, relaxed town with its share of Carrefours, excellent food from food trucks and plenty of fresh fruits & vegetables.

Cayenne, French Guiana