Paramaribo, Suriname

Capital City

With a population of just 15,265, Paramaribo may be the capital of Suriname, but it's hardly a bustling metropolis. The historic city center may be a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but the relentless tropical climate and persistent bureaucratic headaches are a reality check for those seeking an exotic Caribbean lifestyle. While the city boasts a diverse ethnic makeup, including sizable populations of East Indians, Creoles, and Maroons, it's clear that Paramaribo's economy and infrastructure are geared more toward serving the country's resource exports than catering to foreign residents. This sleepy river town is best suited for those seeking a slower pace of life and a taste of Surinamese culture, rather than an action-packed Caribbean adventure.