| The Co-operative Republic of Guyana, which boasts a rich culture from its six peoples, and plays residence to the kings of the Amazon rainforest, has much to celebrate when it turns 50 on May 26, 2016. |
A quick geographic lesson would tell you that Guyana is situated on the northern mainland of South America bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Brazil, Suriname and Venezuela.
Its natural vegetation and rich history make Guyana an ideal destination in South America and among the Caribbean islands. So as the country commemorates its 50th Independence anniversary, Guyanese at home and in the Diaspora believe they have all reason to be merry.
However, if you are a first time visitor or returning home after many years and the night clubs or restaurants are not of much interest to you, please allow Guyana Inc. to be the first to give you an official insight into Guyana’s lush heritage and eco-tourism.
Be prepared for a picturesque adventure as you are warmly welcomed to beautiful Guyana.
ST GEORGE’S CATHEDRAL: Located on North Road in Georgetown, it stands at 143 feet as the tallest wooden structure. This Anglican Church reminds Guyanese of their architectural, social and cultural heritage. It was completed and blessed in 1892. The interior of the sanctuary is designed in the shape of a Latin cross, fused with elements of Elizabethan architecture. This site is perfect for history lovers.
THE BOTANICAL GARDENS: Conceived in 1877 by the Royal Agricultural and Commercial Society, this Garden consists of flora and fauna and several historical structures such as the kissing bridge, the bandstand and the place of seven ponds. The history of the ponds states that its creation was in honour of the nation’s fallen heroes, Former President Desmond Hoyte among others.
Guyana also holds a renowned title as a bird watching paradise. The beautiful Botanical Gardens is one of many perfect destinations to be mesmerized by various species of birds. Take the opportunity to view these creatures at very close quarters without having to strain your neck.
STABROEK MARKET: Officially opened in November, 1881- the market covers an area of 76,728 square feet. The steel work was developed in a Tudor and Gothic architectural style. Its framework comprises of four dialed clocks which prominently stand sixty feet above the main entrance. The clock is now defunct but the market still continues to prosper economically, and is highly ranked among the world’s largest Metal Markets. So, if you are interested in savouring a local ambiance, then venture within the corridors of the market, do enjoy, but be careful!
CITY HALL: The Office of the Mayor and City Council of Georgetown was opened in July 1889, with a Neo-gothic architecture design, consisting of wrought iron columns and stairs, lancelet windows, a hammer beam roof in the concert hall and a tower which rises at 96 feet. These are a few attractions that allow this building to hold the prestigious title as one of the Caribbean’s premium structures. The compound of the City Hall also houses several monuments. As recent as March 18, 2016, Guyana held its local Government Elections after twenty three years; hence a new mayor and councilor’s body now govern within these fine wooden walls.
THE SEAWALLS: Built by the Dutch in 1880, as a sea defense mechanism, the Georgetown seawall is now a local “chill spot”. It has become a popular exercising location, a spot for the old and young and an ideal recreational place for family and friends, especially on Sunday afternoons. The walls run approximately 280 miles in length along the coastline of the capital city. So there is always enough room to facilitate a large crowd.
The Georgetown municipality is filled with magnificent monuments and buildings that display an elegant combination of our Dutch, British, Spanish and French forefathers’ heritage and affluent culture.
Sounds exciting? Are you ready for more? Then let this article continue to be your first hand tour guide.
Guyana as the land of many waters, streaming rivers and dark water creeks will entice you to splash freely and get loose at our riverain resorts. Now take the opportunity to venture out of the capital to experience the breathtaking eco tourism locations and resorts. You can also take a trip up the Linden/Soesdyke Highway to visit one of the several creeks and resorts or travel up the mighty Essequibo River, for a day away from the busy city life.
ARROW POINT: This breathtaking paradise is situated a little further up from Santa Mission. Officials there, take you on a walk through the rainforest, demonstrate cassava bread making, and stuff you with delicious Guyanese food. You can swim in the lake and if you overnight and they will take you on a night-time walk to try to see creatures.
BAGANARA ISLAND RESORT: This is another resort located on the Essequibo River about 50 miles in the interior from the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a secluded site in the middle of the jungle with plenty of amenities at your disposal. There, you can swim and kayak, participate in organized excursions in the surrounding areas or just relax to your enjoyment.
HURAKABRA RESORT: Situated on the western bank of the mighty Essequibo River, this resort is known to be yachter’s paradise. Hurakabra is home to various animal and towering trees such as the Kabakali and the imposing Silk Cotton Tree, known as the king of trees. It is also a bird watching paradise so take the chance and be one with nature.
ARUWAI RESORT WHITE H2O: Located in Region Seven, in the Mazaruni River, this establishment was opened in 2015, and is named after one of the many waterfalls found in Guyana. The luxurious resort is built on an island which is approximately one quarter of a square mile and houses a fifty room hotel. Perks of visiting the resort include boat rides, visitation of several falls and the use of the water slide trampoline. A spa and gymnasium is also readily available for you.
Are those bathing suits ready for a fantastic trip? Are you set to relax as you watch the sun dip behind the horizon of the rivers? Or are you thirsty for cold local beverages chilled to delight, as you unwind in one of the locally made benabs found on several of our creeks along the Linden/ Soesdyke Highway?
One such place to do so is at the PANDAMA RETREAT AND WINERY. This is the first retreat found up the Linden-Soesdyke Highway. The retreat caters as a “get away” from civilization. It offers a unique blend of culture and mesmerizing scenery as it is home to one 128 species of birds. And if you are a wine lover, Pandama offers an extravagant selection. The retreat also caters for outdoor camping. Refresh, rejuvenate and relax as you are nicely tucked away in private cabins with all amenities.
SPLASHMINS ECO ADVENTURE PARK AND CAMPING GROUNDS: This resort, also located along the Linden Soesdyke highway, provides adventure parks which give you the opportunity to indulge in a grass roots’ ambiance. The 25 acres of lush vegetation will make you indulge in a full Guyanese lifestyle. Treat yourself in climbing trees, picking fruits and take the chance in a bush cook or BBQ on the grounds.
The riverain resorts will not be your last stop as IWOKARMA INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR RAINFOREST CONSERVATION is a prime tourist hotspot. It offers a canopy walkway at 100 feet high and gives visitors a view of the forest. If you are not fond of heights, we advise you not to walk the canopy but visit the Atta Rainforest lodge which rests among the towering trees and grassy lawns. The conservation’s purpose is to preserve values between nature and the local people who reside within the community. In Iwokrama, there are estimated to be over 200 different species of mammals, 50 birds, 420 fish and 150 reptiles and amphibians.
Last but not least, try not to leave Guyana without making an effort to visit the infamous, longest single drop water fall in the world – Kaieteur. Situated on the Potaro River, Kaieteur Falls ranks with Iguazú, Niagara and Victoria in scale and beauty. This is especially a show stopper for first timers. Meanwhile, its national park is situated on the Guiana Shield, a flat terrain that is one of the world’s oldest and most remote geological formations located in a bio-diverse rainforest.
As you decide your ultimate destination, we do hope we have been of significant assistance to make your stay worthwhile in Guyana. Be sure to jungle trek, indulge in wildlife spotting, visit an Amerindian village, ski the rapidly flowing waterways and sample our delectable local dishes.
