Traveling to this wonderful country would rather be complete when you have embraced the culture and lifestyle of the natives! RocApply dedicates this guide to educate you on the culture of the Surinameans to make your stay as seamless as possible!
Drawing on its English, African and West Indian roots, the country has established its own distinctive identity, evidenced in its customs, traditions and values, and passionately expressed through the rich history, exceptional cuisine and artistic talents of the locals.
About Culture and Lifestyle
Since the beginning of its history, Suriname has been a battle field for competing groups. Whether referring to the conflict between indigenous peoples or between colonial powers, the region has always been wanted by someone.
The country is a wonderful amalgamation of several different cultures – a fact which is evident in many difference facets of the national culture. Such diverse influences can be clearly evidenced in music, the arts and of course, the cuisine.
As is clear from Surinamese history, the country is ethnically, culturally and religiously unique.
Some of the country’s cultural influences are a result of the slave trade bringing people from Africa and South East Asia, but much of what the culture is in modern day has been influenced by the cultures of the colonizers themselves.
Suriname is certainly a nation of migrants it is estimated that 90% who have lived in the country their whole lives have ancestors from a different region. Surinamese music is an interesting blend between indigenous South American rhythms and international European and North American trends.
One of the most popular music forms, both historically and today, is kaseko, a genre of Indo-Caribbean influence commanding much percussion and wind instruments. It is characterized mostly, though, by its fast paced beat.
If there is any marker as clear to the diverse nature of the Surinamese population, it is the region’s cuisine. The main influences that can be picked up on in any local dish include Javanese, Indian, West African, Chinese, Dutch and even Portuguese.
Popular dishes always include the staples of roti (an Indian flatbread), cassava and spicy peppers
The people are spiritual and religiously conscious. They are by nature open, thoughtful and kind. Surinameans are people full of compassion and courtesy! This is evidenced by the level of security and peace the country offers.
You will likely stay for the entirety of your study period unbothered here! There is no need to contemplate about studying here. The country lives up to its fame! Make your application today with RocApply and get started to roll with everyone else here.
" Its a place to be" - Martin from Canada
