Souvenirs from Suriname - Things you must shop for
Souvenirs from Suriname reflect the country’s rich cultural diversity and natural beauty, including traditional crafts such as Maroon handicrafts, Saramacca baskets, and Javanese batik fabrics. Local flavors are captured in products like Surinamese spices, Paramaribo rum, and exotic teas, offering a taste of the region. Artistic expressions through Surinamese paintings, wooden carvings, and Amerindian pottery provide unique and memorable keepsakes from this vibrant country.
Here are the list featuring 16 souvenirs from Suriname to buy on your way back:
Borgoe is one rum offered in this beautiful island country that amasses love for its rich flavor and composition. With an ABV of 38%, this beverage smells like honey and citrus and is quite thin on the palate, finishing with notes of vanilla.
Available in a host of designs, colors, prints, and sizes, these can add a Surinamese touch to your home decorations. You should grab one or two on your way back home.
Pangi is a traditional piece of cloth, typically a skirt, that features a variety of prints, patterns, and colors. It can be worn by both men and women and can also be used as a towel or to decorate your space.
Monopoly is a world-renowned game and is the perfect souvenir to grab for yourself or as a gift to take for friends or family. It is a very popular source of entertainment among locals and can be purchased at gift shops or toy stores across the island destination.
These handcrafted dolls are dressed in vibrant traditional attire, showcasing the intricate designs and colorful patterns typical of Surinamese Creole fashion. These make a charming souvenirs to take back home.
These spices, including masala, allspice, and locally grown herbs, are integral to Surinamese cuisine, known for its diverse and aromatic dishes. A perfect gift for food enthusiasts.
Almost every intern or tourist has posed at least once by the famous 'I love SU' sign, which can be found near Fort Zeelandia. 'I love SU' is a well-known emblem in Suriname. This recognizable logo is printed on t-shirts, sweaters, pants, and even onesies.
It offers good quality at a low price compared to the prices in the Netherlands where this brand is also sold. Many previous interns have taken advantage of this to bring home some nice lipsticks or nail polishes.
hey sell bags and headbands made by Saramaccan women from the village of Drepada. All the products are also handmade. This makes an ideal gift for your mother, sister, or best friend. There are also cool male hip bags for men, so you won’t have to disappoint your father, brother, or friends either.
Now you might think, "what a strange souvenir!" However, the fruit is the basis for a very fun and original souvenir. These bowls often have various shapes cut into them, making them look decorative and unique. Another product made from the calabash is lamps, which are perfect keepsakes for your home.
Pepper jelly from Suriname makes a distinctive and flavorful souvenir. This sweet and spicy condiment, made from local peppers, adds a unique touch to any dish, whether used as a glaze, dip, or spread. Bringing home a jar to share with family or friends, making it memorable and delicious keepsake.
These locally grown and roasted nuts offer a delicious and healthy snack, perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Known for its rich, creamy texture and authentic flavor, Surinamese peanut butter is often made with locally grown peanuts and traditional methods. Peanut butter from Suriname makes a delightful and unique souvenir.
Made from tropical fruits like cashew and pineapple, Surinamese wines offer a unique taste that reflects the country's exotic flavors and local craftsmanship. Surinamese wine serves as a distinctive and memorable souvenir.
Crafted from seeds of the Maripa palm, these pieces are not only beautiful but also sustainable, showcasing the artistry of local artisans. Maripa palm jewelry often includes necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, each piece reflecting the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Suriname. These makes a meaningful and eco-friendly souvenir.
These models typically represent traditional canoes used by indigenous communities along Suriname's rivers and coastlines. Bring home a miniature canoe allows you to appreciate the indigenous tradition and makes for a unique and meaningful keepsake.
Travel Advice in Suriname - And explore some of its popular places
Suriname, located on the northeastern coast of South America, is known for its diverse culture, stemming from its history of Dutch colonization and the influence of African, Indian, Javanese, and Indigenous cultures. Its economy is largely based on mining, particularly bauxite, and agriculture, with significant biodiversity in its rainforests. Paramaribo, the capital, showcases Dutch colonial architecture alongside a vibrant cultural scene, making it a unique blend of Caribbean and South American influences.
Suriname Tips and Travel Advice you should follow:
Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is prevalent in Paramaribo and its surrounding areas, especially in major business districts, shopping areas, and near popular hotels. Avoid walking alone after dark outside the immediate vicinity of major hotels.
Road conditions and safety can vary significantly across Suriname, particularly outside major urban centers. In Paramaribo, most roads are paved but often poorly maintained, with many lacking sidewalks, forcing pedestrians and cyclists to share space with motor vehicles. Additionally, inadequate lighting, reckless driving, and poorly maintained vehicles further contribute to risks. It is important to note that motorcycles and scooters in Suriname are not allowed to occupy a full lane, which increases the danger of sharing the road with cars. Driving can be especially hazardous during the rainy season.
Transportation in Suriname primarily relies on road networks, with major cities connected by paved roads, though maintenance outside urban areas can be poor. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are commonly used within Paramaribo but may be less reliable in rural areas. River transport is also significant, particularly in remote regions of the country.
In Suriname, the official currency is the Surinamese Dollar (SRD). The exchange rate can fluctuate, and it's advisable to check for the current rate before exchanging money. Major credit and debit cards are accepted in urban areas and tourist establishments, but it's recommended to carry cash in smaller towns and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited. Additionally, ATMs are available in major cities for withdrawing local currency.
In Suriname, it's recommended to drink only bottled or boiled and filtered water, and avoid ice cubes in drinks unless made from purified water. When it comes to food, opt for hot, thoroughly cooked meals and avoid raw or undercooked foods, especially meats and seafood. Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands before eating and ensuring dishes are clean, further helps prevent food and waterborne illnesses while visiting Suriname.
SURINAMESE uses different size markings. You can use the size converter when purchasing clothing and shoes while traveling in Suriname.