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Guyana Local Dialect: Words, Phrases and Sayings

Blogger — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 21:03:13 +0000

Understanding local dialects can help travelers feel right at home when communicating with those locals who speak in dialect.

English is the official language of Guyana.

In addition, Amerindian languages (Akawaio, Wai-Wai, Arawak and Macushi) are spoken by a small minority,
while Guyanese Creole (an English-based creole with African and Indian syntax whose grammar is not
standardized.

The Haitian community is not monolithic. Some people hang on to French, but the majority is the Creole.

Here are some of Guyana, phrases, meanings available below:

Girl – Gyal

Boy – Bai (pronounced bye)

I am on the phone – Meh deh pon a/de fone

Who is she? – Ah who she?

What is that? – Dah ah wha? / Ah wah ah Dah?

I don’t know – Meh nah know

What do you want? – Wuh yuh want

What is happening? (An every day greeting similar to What’s up?) -Wappenin?

How are you? – How yuh do?

What are you doing?- aWa ya do?

We are going to cook – Abee a guh cook

No Man-Na Man

Don’t come back- Nah mek meh see yuh back here/Nah mas come back

What’s wrong with you? – Wha rong wit yuh?

Do you understand what I am saying? – Yah understand wah meh ah seh?

Come here – Come hay, nuh man?

Move over – Draw down.

Go home – Ayuh catch house

Gone from here – Gwhan from yah

Whats going on- wah gwan?

Gay man – Auntie Man

Your Dad – Yuh Mumma Man

I dont Want – Meh Nah Want

Not Us – Nah Abedese

What are you doing, Girl – Aye Gyal ah wha yah do deh

That is a nice dress – Dah wan Nice Frack

Bring it here – bring am come

Guyana Map

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 01:04:39 +0000

Map of Guyana

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Guyana Calendar Of Events

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 01:01:30 +0000

January

New Year’s Day – January 1 – National Holiday
Youman Nabi – Early January -National Holiday

February

Republic Day – February 23 – National Day
Mashramani – February 23 – National Day

Mashramani is a word that is derived from the Amerindian language, which means “the celebration of a job well done”.
Mashramani, which is sometimes called “Mash”, is usually observed on the 23rd day of February, which is Guyana’s Republic Day to commemorate the birth of the Republic. There are float parades, masquerade bands, dancing in the streets to the accompaniment of steel band music and calypsos.

March

Phagwah (early March)

Phagwah is a Hindu religious holiday observed in March to celebrate the triumph of good over evil. Hindus traditionally wear white on Phagwah day and throw a red liquid on each other. The red dye symbolizes the blood or the tyrannical King Kiranya who is alleged to have been burnt alive by his son.

April

Easter Holidays – Good Friday Easter Sunday and Easter Monday (Easter Holidays are either in late March or early April)

May

Labour Day – May 1 – National Holiday

July

Caricom Day -July 1

August

Emancipation Day – First Monday in August

December

Christmas Day – December 25
Boxing Day – December 26

Guyana celebrates the international Christian holiday of Christmas to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. The feeling of peace, love and joy transcend all ethnic, religious and ethnic barriers.

Guyana Important Addresses

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 00:56:15 +0000

LOCAL TOURIST INFORMATION:

Tourist Association of Guyana;
157 Waterloo St.;
North Cummingsburg Georgetown;
Guyana;
Tel: (2) 50 807
Fax: (2) 50 817

U.S. Embassies and Consulates Abroad:

Note that the Bahamas , Cuba , Haiti , and Jamaica are on
Eastern Time. All others are one hour ahead. Note: Some (809)
area codes are expected to change. If you are unable to get
through on (809), consult your telephone directory or the operator.

Embassy of the Republic of Guyana:
2490 Tracey Place,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008.
Tel: (202) 265-6900;
Fax: (202) 232-1297.
E-mail: Guyanaembassy@hotmail.com

Medical Clinics:

Hospitals:

The Public Hospital Georgetown,
New Market Street, Georgetown,
Guyana Tel: +592 2 56900 or Tel: 2 62687/59673/78224.

Bartica Hospital,
Second Road, Bartica, Essequibo,
Guyana Tel: +592 5 2339.

Best Hospital,
Best, West Coast Demerara,
Guyana Tel: 64 702.

Charity Hospital,
Charity, Essequibo,
Guyana Tel: 71 204.

Davis Memorial Hospital (P),
121 Durban Backlands Lodge,
Georgetown, Guyana Tel: 2 72041.

Fort Wellington Hospital,
Public Road, New Amsterdam,
Berbice, Guyana Tel: 3 2396.

Jesus Rescue Mission Children’s Hospital (P),
67 Croal Street, Stabroek,
Georgetown, Guyana Tel: 2 54090.

Leonora Hospital,
Leonora, West Coast
Demerara, Guyana Tel: 61 2502.

Mabaruma Hospital,
Mabaruma Compound,
North West District, Guyana Tel: 77 205.

Mahaica Hospital,
Mahaica Village,
East Coast Demerara,
Guyana Tel: 28 211.

Matthew’s Ridge Hospital,
Matthew’s Ridge,
North West District, Guyana Tel: 75 205.

Medical Arts Centre (P),
265 Thomas Street, North Cummingsburg,
Georgetown, Guyana Tel: 2 57402 Fax: 2 65220.

New Amsterdam Hospital,
New Amsterdam, Berbice,
Guyana Tel: 3 2266.

Port Mourant Hospital,
Corentyne, Berbice, Guyana Tel: 37 2883.

Prashad’s Hospital Ltd (P),
258–9 Middle and Thomas Streets,
North Cummingsburg, Geogetown,
Guyana Tel: 2 67214 Fax: 2 67213.

Skeldon Hospital,
Corriverton, Berbice, Guyana Tel: 39 2211.

St Joseph’s Mercy Hospital (P),
130–2 Parade Street, Kingston,
Georgetown, Guyana Tel: 2 72070 Fax: 2 502260.

Suddie Hospital,
Suddie, Essequibo, Guyana Tel: 74 227 The hospital:
A small (50–100-bed) rural hospital on the coast.
Rural outreach clinics are done into the remote interior.

West Demerara General Hospital,
Best Village, Vreed-en-Hoop,
West Coast Demerara, Guyana Tel: 64 271.

Woodlands Hospital (P),
110–11 Carmichael Street,
North Cummingsburg, Georgetown,
Guyana Tel: 2-54050 Fax: 2 55865.

Pharmacies:

Emergencies Contact Information:

Police: 911

Fire: 912

Ambulance: 912

Area Code – 590

Emergency Air Service:

Ferry Services:

Automobile Rentals:

Buddy’s Car Rental
154 Charlotte St. (King St)
Lacytown
Tel: 02-53983

Budget Rent-A-Car
Liliendaal, Gr. Georgetown
Tel: 02-23247

Camex Car Rentals
125 D Barrack St.
Kingston
Tel: 02-76976, 77, 78, 79, 80

Dolly’s Taxi Service & Car Rental
272 Bissessar Ave.
Prashad Nagar
Tel: 02-57126

Evrose Auto Rental
166 Charlotte St.
Lacytown
Tel: 02-73715

Mark Chandra’s Car Rental
229 Anaida Ave
Eccleston Gardens, Eccles
Tel: 02-71592

N & R Auto Rental
301 Church St. (Thomas St)
South Cummingsburg
Tel: 02-66404

Rainbow Taxi & Car Rental
23 Hadfield St.
Stabroek, Georgetown
Tel: 02-66903

Trident Auto Rentals
215 Camp St.
South Cummingsburg
Tel: 02-50675

Trotzy’s Auto Travels
58 Hadfield St.
Lodge, Georgetown
Tel: 02-68218

Taxi Companies:

Rainbow Taxi & Car Rental
23 Hadfield St.
Stabroek, Georgetown
Tel: 02-66903

Dolly’s Taxi Service & Car Rental
272 Bissessar Ave.
Prashad Nagar
Tel: 02-57126

Cruises:

Internet Service Providers:

Internet Cafes:

Ana Roberts
33385 NW 38th Place Sunrise, Fl
Zipcode: 33351
Tel: 954-625-0023
Email: bsktballwizard@aol.com

Travel Agents and Bureaus:

L.C. Fleming Travel
Address: Les Porte de St. Martin
Phone: (590) 590 87-5001
Fax: (590) 590 87-5165

Look Voyages
Address: 22 Rue Delgres, 97110 Pointe a Pitre
Phone: (590) 590 21-2121
Fax: (590) 590 21-2120

Alt Jet
Address: 129 Resid. Amandiers
Phone: (590) 590 87-4718
Fax: (590) 590 87-4642

Caribjet
Address: 49 Rue Amandiers
Phone: (590) 590 21-6080
Fax: (590) 590 21-6089

Vega Voyages
Address: Shopping Center Raizet, 97139 Les Abymes
Phone: (590) 590 91-4028
E-Mail Address: vega.voyages@wanadoo.fr

Airline Companies:

Air Canada
Address: Aeroport Pole Caraibes, 97139 Abymes
Phone: (590) 590 21-1277 / (590) 590 21-1629 / (590) 590 21-1330
Fax: (590) 590 12-1276

Air Guadeloupe
Address:
Phone: (590) 590 89-6262 / (590) 590 82-4747 / (590) 590 82-4700
Fax: (590) 590 83-7003 / (590) 590 82-4748

Antilles Handling
Address: Aeroport Pole Caraibes
Phone: (590) 590 21-1462
Fax: (590) 590 21-1464

AOM
Address: 35 rue Achille Boisneuf, 97110 Pointe a Pitre
Phone: (590) 590 21-0910
Website: www.aom.com

Cubana
Address: Aeroport Pole Caraibes, 97139 Abymes
Phone: (590) 590 21-1477
Fax: (590) 590 21-1475

Banks:

Demerara Bank Limited
230 Camp & South Sts
Georgetown
Tel: 592-2-50610
Fax: 592-2-50601

National Bank Of Industry & Commerce Limited
38-40 Water St Georgetown,
Tel: 592-2-61691 Or 592-2-52913/64091/5
Fax: 592-2-72921
Telex: 3044-GY

Tourism info centers:

Whitewater Adventure Tours
3 Sandy Babb St Kitty
Georgetown
Tel: 592-2-52281 0r 592-2-66614/65225
Fax: 592-2-65225
Email: wwat@networkgy.com

Tourists’attractions:

Whitewater Adventure Tours
3 Sandy Babb St Kitty
Georgetown
Tel: 592-2-52281 0r 592-2-66614/65225
Fax: 592-2-65225
Email: wwat@networkgy.com

Sightseeing tours:

TOUR OPERATOR REPRESENTATIVES:

Whitewater Adventure Tours
3 Sandy Babb St Kitty
Georgetown
Tel: 592-2-52281 0r 592-2-66614/65225
Fax: 592-2-65225
Email: wwat@networkgy.com

Guyana Things To Do

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 00:53:32 +0000

Kyuk-Over-Al:

Built in 1616 to guard the Mazaruni and Cayuni Rivers only the ruins of the fort is still visible.

The Rupununi:

A savannah of Grasslands situated on the southwest of the country, scattered with small Amerindian villages and cattle ranches dated all the way back to the 19th century. Flooding annually takes place in this area and at times is accessible only by boat. Exciting and adventurous, tours are carried out during these times.

Iwokrama Rain Forest:

Located in the interior of the country and has a more the 359 hectares of magnificent rain forest. This forest has been placed under a strict program to establish that there can be social and economic benefit without loosing the integrity of the forest.

Guyana Things To Know

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 00:50:15 +0000

Time Zone* EST+1

Summer Sunrise/Sunset: 6:00 AM to 5:50 PM

Winter Sunrise/Sunset: 5:46 AM to 6:11 PM

Average Temperature Summer: 81 degrees F

Average Temperature Winter: 79 degrees F

Average Rainfall: 91″

Rainiest Months: May-July/November-January

Water Temperature Summer: 82 degrees F

Water Temperature Winter: 79 degrees F

Average humidity: 81%-90%

Dry Season: September-April

Hurricane season: June-November

Guyana Getting Around

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 00:47:30 +0000

By Air:

Air transportation is readily available for traveling to several
parts of the hinterland, whether for business or for pleasure.
The several local airlines depart from both Ogle Aerodome on the
East Coast of Demerara and from CBJ International Airport , Timehri.
Information on their availability and movement is easily obtainable
from their office and from tour operators.

By Road:

Transportation around the city is provided by privately owned
mini buses which operate in allocated zones for which there is
a well-regulated fare structure. This arrangement extends to all
mini bus routes throughout the country. Taxis have freer movement
around the city and into rural areas. Their fare, while generally
standard, is less regulated.

By River:

While one way of traveling to East Berbice is by ferry, mainly
between Rosignol and New Amsterdam , commuters to West Demerara
have a choice of road transport via the Demerara Harbour Bridge
or by the Demerara River ferry from the Stabroek Stelling to
Vreed-en-Hoop which is obliquely opposite.

The highway which begins on the West Coast of Demerara is heavily
trafficked since it provides a link to Parika on the East Bank of
Essequibo River which has become and important centre of economic
activity in the Essequibo region. For example, speed or other types
of transportation can be hired to take passengers are far as
Bartica or other Hinterland resorts and back in a single day.

For further information contact the Guyana Tourism Authority on
Telephone Number: 592-223-6351 or Fax: 592-231-6672.

By taxi:

Taxis have an “H” on their license plates. Always use taxis after
dark and only use reputable taxis that you have called for in advance.
Bandits have targeted some taxis, but they are the safest way for
tourists to get around. Taxi tours are available in addition to regular
taxi service

By car:

Roads are generally in poor condition and often without street
lights. Watch out for erratic local drivers and animals on or
along the sides of the road, especially at night. There are
severe penalties for those involved in accidents that result
in injury or death.

To rent a car an international driving permit is recommended.
Otherwise you’ll need a one-month temporary local driving permit,
which you can obtain at the License and Revenue Office in Georgetown.
Ensure you bring your valid driver’s license from home.

By bus:

Privately owned minibuses operate throughout the country according
to the following zones:
21: Supennam to Charity
31: Georgetown to Wales
32: Georgetown to Parika
40: Kitty/Campbellville
41: Lodge/South, East and West Ruimveldt
42: Georgetown to Timehri
43: Georgetown to Linden
44: Georgetown to Mahaica
45: Main/Lamaha/Albert Streets
50: Georgetown to Rosignol
63: Georgetown to Moleson Creek
72: Georgetown to Mahdia

By ferry and water taxi:

Ferries and speed boats (known as balahoos and corials)
operate from Stabroek Stelling to Vreed-en-Hoop (West Demerara),
New Amsterdam and Rosignol to East Berbice, and Leguan/Parika
Stelling to Essequibo. Water taxis can also be chartered.

By air:

Trans Guyana Airways Ltd, Roraima Airways Inc, and Air Service
Limited provide service to domestic destinations. They depart
from Ogle Aerodome on the East Coast of Demerara and from the
Cheddi Jagan International (CJI) Airport in Timehri.

Guyana Getting There

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 00:41:59 +0000

Airlines that service Guyana.

BWIA flies daily between Guyana from Barbados and offers direct and connecting service between Barbados and Canada, the U.K., the U.S. and other countries.

Universal Airlines and North American Airlines offer direct flights from New York (JFK) to Georgetown.
The three airlines above, along with Caribbean Star and Liat, also have connecting service to Guyana from many places in the Caribbean.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

All Visitors must present a passport, though
no visa is required for U.S., Canadian, or
British Commonwealth citizens.

DEPARTURE TAX: $14

AIRLINES

Air Caribbean: (868) 669-3000

American Airlines: (800) 433-7300

BWIA: (800) 538-2942

Guyana Airways 2000: (011-5922) 67563

LIAT: (800) 468-0482

North American: (800) 371-6297

Surinam Airways: (800) 327-6864

Guyana FAQs

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 00:33:17 +0000

When is the best weather in Guyana?

The best time is during low-water season, when the rains have stopped and available
water is concentrated in ponds and rivers. This concentration of water resources
means that wildlife is less dispersed and therefore easier to see. The water is
lowest from January to early April at the height of the dry season. The rainy
season starts in late April and continues until early September, when the water
is at its highest.

Do I need a passport to visit Guyana?

Passport and onward/return ticket required. Upon arrival, visa granted for
30-day stay. Extensions may be obtained. Travelers for purposes other than
tourism should consult the Embassy of Guyana for additional requirements,
2490 Tracy Pl., NW, Washington, DC 20008 (202/265-6900/03) or Consulate
General, 370 7 th Avenue, Room 402, NY 10001 (212/947-5110/5111).

Is the water safe to drink?

It’s best to stick with bottled water, which is readily available.

Do I need electrical adaptors for my hairdryer/radio etc?

Electricity varies between 110 and 220 volts, 50-60 cycles, depending on where
you are in the country, so you should bring a transformer and an adaptor. Georgetown
is mostly 110 volts. Power outages are common. Use a surge protector for sensitive
appliances.

Should I exchange my money for local currency?

Guyanese Dollar (G$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of G$1000, 500,
100 and 20. Coins are in denominations of G$10, 5 and 1. US Dollars are widely
accepted throughout Guyana.

Currency exchange:
Banks offer exchange facilities. Bureaux de change offer free conversion of
currencies.

Currency restrictions:
The import and export of local currency is limited to G$200. The import of foreign
currency is unlimited, provided declared in writing on arrival. The export of
foreign currency is limited to the amount imported and declared. The Guyanese
Dollar is not negotiable abroad.

Are there any airport fees?

There is a departure tax/security fee of G$4000 payable when you reconfirm your
ticket, which should be done at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled departure.
This tax can only be paid in Guyana dollars.

What is the legal drinking/gambling age?

The legal drinking age is 18.

Can I get married in Guyana?

Fees:

Marriage License – $102.00EC
Registrar’s Fee $100.00 EC
Marriage Certificate – $8.00 EC

Requirements:

* Candidates must be resident on the island for at least two days if one party
is a resident before application for the license.

* If applicants are non-resident, then fifteen days before application for the
license.

* Candidates must present legal Passport and original Birth Certificate.

* Divorce Decree or Death Certificate if applicable.

* Evidence of notarized parental consent if one of the candidates is under the age of 18.

* Authenticated English translation of any must be attached to documents that are not in
written in English.

* An application to be married must be made at lease four days prior to the wedding date.

* Completed and notarized marriage request form.

What about fishing?

Fly Fish Guyana Amazonia:

The Trip of your dreams! 5 days and 6 nights with 4 full days of fishing Included:
Lodging, Air and Ground Transfers within Guyana, Meals in Fishing Lodges, English
speaking Guides and Boats. Not-included: International Airfare, Non-National Alcoholic
Beverages, Meals in Georgetown, Tips and Gratuities. Rental Tackle will be available.
Custom tied flies and lures will be for purchase.

For more Information, please Contact:

E-Mail: FFCR@flyfishcostrica.com

flyfishcostarica@hotmail.com

hinterlander.tours@networksgy.com

Phone: 506- 228 0267 Costa Rica
Fax 506 289 6611

Phone: 592 226 2860 Guyana
Fax 592 226 4025

Can I use a metal detector on the beaches?

There are no restrictions on the use of metal detectors.

Where are the “clothing optional” beaches?

Finally there is French Guyana, found on the eastern coast of South America.
You will find croissants for breakfast, the Euro dollar, nude beaches, and
luxury European cars such as Peugeots and Citroëns as numerous as SUV’s in
the U.S. Since these islands are financed by France, the standard of living
is the same as in mainland France. You will find expensive French boutiques
and larger shops, along with fine French restaurants. So many of the good
things of French life have been adopted in Creole form. Lingering in
restaurants after meals is just one example.

What is there to see or do in Guyana?

Tour of Mountain Roraima
101 Cummings Street
Bourda
Georgetown
Guyana
Tel: 592-2-59648
Fax 592-2-59646
Email: ral@roraimaairways.com

Wilderness Explorers
Cara Suites
176 Middle Street
Georgetown
Guyana
South America
Tel: (592) 2277698
Fax: (592) 2262085
Voice Mail: (592) 2262085
Email: info@wilderness-explorers.com

Flying and boating Adventure
101 Cummings Street
Bourda
Georgetown
Guyana
Tel: 592-2-59648
Fax: 592-2-59646
Email: ral@roraimaairways.com

One Week Tour to Guyana from Canada
101 Cummings Street
Bourda,
Georgetown
Guyana
Tel: 592-2-59648
Fax 592-2-59646
Email: ral@roraimaairways.com

Guyana is a great place, can I move there?

Americans living or traveling in Guyana are encouraged to register with the
U.S. Embassy through the State Department’s travel registration website,
https://travelregistration.state.gov, and to obtain updated information on
travel and security within Guyana.

The U.S. Embassy is located at 100 Young and Duke Streets, telephone 011-592-225-4900
through 54909, fax 011-592-225-8497 web site http://georgetown.usembassy.gov/. Hours
of operation are Monday-Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, except local and U.S. holidays.
For emergencies after hours, on weekends and on holidays, U.S. citizens are requested
to call the U.S. Embassy duty officer at 011-592-623-1992.

What about island hopping?

Guyana has 1077km (607 miles) of navigable inland waterways, the most notable
being the Mazaruni, Essequibo, Potaro, Demerara and Berbice rivers. Government
steamers communicate with the interior up the Essequibo and Berbice rivers, but
services can be irregular owing to flooding. The Government also runs a coast-
hopping service from Georgetown to several northern ports. Smaller craft operate
where there is sufficient demand throughout the country.

Can I access the Internet from Guyana?

Internet cafes are available in Georgetown. ISPs include GT&T and GuyanaNet
(website: www.guyana.net.gy).

Internet Cafes:

Ana Roberts
33385 NW 38th Place Sunrise, Fl
Zipcode: 33351
Tel: 954-625-0023
Email: bsktballwizard@aol.com

Do you need a driving License?

A valid driver’s license is required.

Emergencies Contact Information?

Police – 911 , Fire – 912, Ambulance Service – 912, Ambulance – 56900 (Georgetown only).

What are the entry requirements in Guyana?

A valid passport is required. Citizens of Canada, the US and the European Union
do not require visas. All visitors must also have an onward or return ticket.

Nationals of other countries may require visas. Consult your nearest Guyana
consulate or embassy.

What is the lanquage in Guyana?

English. Hindi; Urdu; Creole and Amerindian are also spoken.

What are the store hours in Guyana?

Working hours (business hours) for most agencies in Guyana are from Monday to Thursday
08:00 to 16:30 (12:00 to 20:30 GMT), Fridays 08:00 to15:30 (12:00 to 19:30 GMT). Shops
and stores are open later on weekdays and on Saturdays. Banks and Government agencies
are usually closed on Saturdays.

What about tipping?

Tip about 10 to 15 per cent. Some hotels and restaurants automatically add your tip
to the bill so check first as it is not necessary to leave an additional tip unless
you feel the service was above average.

Can you use credit cards?

Limited acceptance of credit cards. Travellers cheques (in US$) are accepted ;
but can take a long time to exchange.

Travelers cheques:
Accepted but not recommended for those who may wish to change money in a hurry.
To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take travelers
cheques in US Dollars.

Is there a best time to visit the island?

Guyana’s climate is warm and tropical throughout the year. The rainfall is
generally high for most of the year, as is the humidity. December to January
and May to June are the rainy seasons, while in coastal areas the climate is
tempered by sea breezes.

Is there an airport?

Pole Cara&imul;bes International Airport

What about Taxes?

A 10% Government Room Tax is charged on all accommodation. Extra adult or
children in room using rollaway $10. Crib no charge. Standard and Economy
Rooms are without fridge, $10 extra, if one is required. A 10% service charge
is in effect in all food and beverage areas, making tipping only applicable to
exceptional or special tasks performed.

What about Banks?

ATMs:

You can’t use foreign credit cards or foreign bank cards at ATMs, however, you
can get a cash advance on your credit card from tellers inside Scotiabank branches.
They are located at 104 Carmichael Street, North Cummingsburg, Georgetown; 63 Robb
Street, Lacytown, Georgetown; 12 Strand, New Amsterdam, Berbice; 2nd Avenue, Bartica,
Essequibo; and Parika Highway, East Bank Essequibo. The other main banks are Demerara
Bank Limited, Guyana Bank for Trade & Industry Ltd, and National Bank of
Industry & Commerce Ltd.

Banking and business hours: Mon to Thu 8am-2pm Fri 8am-2:30pm

What about Crime?

Serious crime is concentrated in the more populated areas of the country, and the
crime rate in urban centers continues to be a major problem. Georgetown in particular
suffers from violent crime, including home invasions, kidnappings, carjackings and
shootings. Criminals may act brazenly, and police officers themselves have been the
victims of assaults and shootings. Vehicle occupants should keep their doors locked
and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Robberies and thefts occur frequently
in Georgetown and New Amsterdam. U.S. citizens should avoid stopping in or traveling
through the village of Buxton, which lies along the road between Georgetown and
New Amsterdam.

Calling to and from Guyana?

IDD is available to main towns and cities. Country code: 592. Outgoing
international code: 001.

Can I use my cellular telephone in Guyana?

GSM 900 network in use. Network providers include Cel Star Guyana Inc and Guyana
Telephone and Telegraph Company (GT&T) (website: www.gtt.co.gy). Mobile phones
can be hired from GT&T.

What is the Dress code in Guyana?

Dress is casual and informal. Lightweight summer clothing is appropriate.
A raincoat and umbrella are necessary during the rainy season. Bring
adequate hiking attire if you plan on doing any hiking.

Can I bring my pet to Guyana?

To import your pet you will need a permit from the Guyana Veterinary Authority,
as well as a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian in the country
of origin or export, issued within two days of departure. The Guyana Veterinary
Authority must be notified at least 24 hours in advance of your arrival. Dogs
and cats may be quarantined for at least three months unless they are arriving
from a rabies-free country such as Australia, the United Kingdom, New Zealand,
Republic of Ireland, Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, Jamaica, Montserrat,
St. Kitts/Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, and Barbados.

For more information contact the Veterinary Authority, Ministry of Agriculture,
Animal Services Division, Regent and New Garden streets, Georgetown,

Guyana: tel 226-8568.

About Guyana

Blogger — Sat, 27 Dec 2008 00:25:35 +0000

WHY GUYANA?
Vast unspoiled rain forests dissected by numerous rivers, creeks and beautiful waterfalls.

HISTORY:
Spanish explorers first charted the territory that is now Guyana in 1499. In the 1620s the Dutch established a permanent and successful colony on an island in the Essequibo River. The English and French also founded settlements on the South American coast during the 1600s. All three nations claimed rights in the whole region extending from the Orinoco River to the Amazon River.

By the mid-18th century, Dutch settlers and traders had prevailed over rival Spanish and British expeditions. They formed three colonies in the region. During the 17th century, the Dutch penetrated well into the interior of Guyana and developed trade contacts with the Arawak- and Carib-speaking indigenous people. The Dutch concentrated on sugar cultivation, however, and in the first quarter of the 18th century they rapidly developed sugar plantations. Under the leadership of Laurens Storm Van’s Gravesande, the Dutch commander from 1742 to 1772, the Dutch built sea defenses and drainage and irrigation systems in the coastal lowlands. Many English planters from Barbados also moved to the Dutch colony.

Following the outbreak of the French Revolution in 1789, the French occupied Holland. In 1795 the Dutch offered administration of the colonies to the British because they did not want the colonies to fall under the control of the French. The British officially took possession of the area from the Dutch in 1814. In 1831 the British merged the three Dutch colonies that had existed on the territory that is now Guyana, forming a single colony known as British Guiana.

The Dutch and British imported African slaves to work the sugar plantations. During the years of British rule, diseases introduced from Europe killed many Native Americans. An influx of European immigrants and African slaves reduced the Native American population to a tiny minority. Following the abolition of slavery in the British Empire in 1833, the British brought laborers from India to work the plantations. The resulting division of Guyana’s population into African and Indian ethnic groups had long-lasting effects on Guyana’s society.

PEOPLE / CULTURE:
The indigenous peoples of Guyana are collectively known as Amerindians and constitute about 4 percent of the population. Indian groups include the Warao (Warrau), Arawak, Carib, Wapisiana (Wapishana), Arecuna, the mixed “Spanish Arawak” of the Moruka River, and many more in the forest areas. The Makusí (Macussí or Macushí) are the most prominent of the savanna

Guyana (full name is Co-operative Republic of Guyana) is a tropical country situated on the northern coast of South America.
It is the only country in South America where English is the official language. It is bordered by Venezuela on the west, Suriname on the east, Brazil on the south and the Atlantic Ocean on the north.

Guyana has an area of 214,969 sq km (83,000 sq mi), about the size of Great Britain.
The name Guyana is an Amerindian word meaning Land Of Many Waters.

Kaieteur is one of the highest waterfalls in the world, being nearly five times as high as the Niagara Falls in North America. Our Falls have a clear drop of 741 feet, then a further drop of 81 feet over the great rocks at the bottom. Kaieteur was discovered in 1870 by C. Barrington Brown, who also discovered Orinduik and Kuribrong Falls. The name Kaieteur is an Amerindian word, and the falls should properly be called Kai-Tuk. Georgetown being the chief port and capital is situated on the right bank of the Demerara River estuary. In Georgetown, familiar landmarks include the lively Stabroek Market, the sea-wall and the Anglican cathedral of St George, the tallest wooden building in the world.

Guyana has a population of 758,619 (1991 estimate). About 50 percent of the people are of East Indian descent, and about 30 percent are of black African descent. Five percent are Native Amerindians, and about 10 percent are of mixed background. Others include Chinese and Europeans. About 90 percent of the mostly rural population lives along the coast. About 42 percent are Christians, 34 percent are Hindus, and 9 percent are Muslims. The country’s official language is English.

The economy is dominated by agriculture, concentrated largely on the alluvial belt along the coast. Sugar and rice account for most agricultural exports. Forestry and fishing industries also contribute to the economy, and Guyana is a major producer of the mineral bauxite. Manufacturing remains limited. The currency is the Guyana dollar (135 Guyana dollars equal U.S.$1; 1997,approx.). Guyana’s chief executive is a president, elected to a five-year term by the unicameral National Assembly. The Assembly consists of 12 nonelected members and 53 members elected to five-year terms.

Guyana achieved independence in May 1966, and became a republic on February 23, 1970–the anniversary of the Cuffy slave rebellion. From December 1964 until his death in August 1985, Forbes Burnham ruled Guyana in an increasingly autocratic manner, first as prime minister and later, after the adoption of a new constitution in 1980, as executive president. During that time- frame, elections were viewed in Guyana and abroad as fraudulent. Human rights and civil liberties were suppressed, and two major political assassinations occurred: the Jesuit Priest and journalist Bernard Darke in July 1979, and the distinguished historian and WPA Party leader Walter Rodney in June 1980. Agents of President Burnham are widely believed to have been responsible for both deaths.

Guyana has been a beneficiary of a debt write-off which has saved more than £100 million annually in debt-servicing payments, following the Government’s implementation of a major economic reform program. Since 1997, many formerly state-owned assets and industries have been sold, and deregulation measures introduced, as part of that program. A major obstacle to Guyana’s future economic progress is a shortage of trained personnel, especially in the fields of management and technical expertise; the emigration rate remains high, and only serves to compound this long-term problem. Guyana is a founder member of the regional trading bloc CARICOM. The country’s main export markets are the UK, the USA, Canada, Germany, Indonesia and Trinidad & Tobago.