Suriname Information |
Suriname History |
Suriname Culture |
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Suriname When to go |
Suriname Good to know |
Suriname Visa and Passport |
Suriname Food |
Suriname Nightlife |
People
Current population of Suriname is composed of British Indian descent, Creole, and Afro-Surinamese. As may be seen, a huge chunk is hybrids of two races. This is the result of the intermarriage of the early settlers and the European migrants of the country. As the genes are mixed, the ways of life of these people are also a combination of whatever their race. There is not one solid culture.
Language
The country's official language is Dutch, but there are about twenty more languages spoken within the entire country. The main Creole language is called Sranantongo, which was spoken by masters and slaves during the time of the plantations. Other common languages are Sarnami-Hindustani, and Surinamese-Javanese.
Customs and Ceremonies
Having a lot of indigenous tribes in the country, numerous customs and traditions are followed in the country. One of them is to serve huge amounts of food during birthdays and weddings, particularly if it's the jubilee celebration. Another one is to serve ritual meals called slametans during important life occasions.
Common festivals and celebrations
There are a number of festivities in Suriname which is celebrated by majority of the population. These include New Year's Day, Holi Phagwa, Labor Day, Keti Koti or emancipation day, and day of indigenous people. Travelers are advised to visit the country during these days as it is very festive and sure to be a memorable experience.