Discovering New Amsterdam: Guyana's Hidden Gem

• HelloWah Gwan
  [Wa Guh-wan]
• GoodbyeLater
  [Lay-tuh]
• YesYa
  [Yah]
• NoNah
  [Nuh]
• Please/You're welcomePlis/Tank yuh
  [Pleez/Tank yuh]
• Thank youTenkyuh
  [Ten-kyuh]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/Sarry
  [Pah-dun me/Sah-ree]
• How are you?How yuh deh?
  [How yuh deh]
• Fine. And you?Ah'right. An yuh?
  [Ah-ryt. An yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Yuh speak English?
  [Yuh speak Ing-glish]
• I don't understandMi nah ondastan
  [Mee nah und-uh-stan]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi waan see di menu, plis
  [Mee wahn see dee menu, pleez]
• I don't eat meatMi nah eat meat
  [Mee nah eet meet]
• Cheers!Skaal!
  [Skahl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi waan pay, plis
  [Mee wahn pay, pleez]

• Help!He'p!
  [Heh-p]
• Go away!Gwan weh!
  [Gwan way]
• Call the Police!Call de Police!
  [Call dee Police]
• Call a doctor!Call a docta!
  [Call a dok-ta]
• I'm lostMi lost
  [Mee lost]
• I'm illMi sick
  [Mee sik]

• I'd like to buy...Mi waan buy...
  [Mee wahn buy]
• I'm just lookingMi jus ah look
  [Mee jus ah look]
• How much is it?Awee much it deh?
  [A-wee much it deh]
• That's too expensiveDat too dear
  [Dat too deer]
• Can you lower the price?Yuh can drop de price?
  [Yuh can drop dee price]

• What time is it?Awee time it deh?
  [A-wee time it deh]
• It's one o'clockIt one o'clock
  [It one o'clock]
• Half past (10)Half ten
  [Half ten]
• MorningMahnin
  [Mahn-in]
• AfternoonAftanoon
  [Af-tuh-noon]
• EveningEvenin
  [Eve-nin]
• YesterdayYestadeh
  [Yes-ta-deh]
• TodayToday
  [To-day]
• TomorrowTomorra
  [To-mor-rah]
• 1One
  [Wun]
• 2Two
  [Too]
• 3Tree
  [Tree]
• 4Fo'
  [Foh]
• 5Five
  [Fyv]
• 6Six
  [Siks]
• 7Seven
  [Sev-en]
• 8Eight
  [Ayt]
• 9Nine
  [Nyne]
• 10Ten
  [Ten]

• Where's a/the...?Weh deh...?
  [Way deh]
• What's the address?Wah deh address?
  [Wa deh address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yuh can show me (pan di map)?
  [Yuh can show me (pan dee map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wen de next (bus)?
  [Wen dee next (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)A tikkit (to ....)
  [A tik-kit (to ....)]

New Amsterdam, located in the East Berbice-Corentyne Region of Guyana, was originally established by the Dutch in the 18th century. The town was founded in 1791 and named after Amsterdam in the Netherlands. It quickly became an important administrative and commercial hub in the region.

During the Dutch colonial period, New Amsterdam served as the capital of the colony of Berbice. The town's layout and architecture were heavily influenced by Dutch designs. The presence of canals and Dutch-style buildings are a testament to this period, and some structures from this era still stand today.

In 1815, after the Napoleonic Wars, the British took control of New Amsterdam. Under British rule, the town continued to grow, benefiting from its strategic location along the Berbice River. The introduction of sugarcane plantations and the subsequent sugar industry boom contributed significantly to its economic prosperity.

The abolition of slavery in 1834 was a transformative period for New Amsterdam. The town's population saw a significant shift as freed African slaves settled in and around the area. This period also marked the beginning of indentured labor, primarily involving East Indians, which further diversified the cultural fabric of the town.

New Amsterdam is known for its rich cultural diversity, a legacy of its colonial past. The town is home to a variety of ethnic groups including Afro-Guyanese, Indo-Guyanese, Amerindians, and people of European descent. This blend is reflected in the town's festivals, cuisine, and religious practices.

The architectural landscape of New Amsterdam is a blend of colonial-era buildings and modern structures. Notable landmarks include the St. George's Anglican Church, which is one of the oldest buildings in the town, and the New Amsterdam Town Hall, a striking example of Victorian architecture.

Today, New Amsterdam is a bustling town that serves as a gateway to the hinterlands of Guyana. It retains much of its historical charm while embracing modernity. The town continues to be a center of trade, education, and healthcare in the region, making it an important focal point in Guyana.

New Amsterdam is located in the East Berbice-Corentyne region of Guyana. The nearest international airport is Cheddi Jagan International Airport in Georgetown, approximately 100 kilometers away. From Georgetown, you can take a bus or hire a taxi to New Amsterdam. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours by road. Alternatively, you can take a minibus for a more economical option.

New Amsterdam is a relatively small town, so many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis are readily available and are an inexpensive way to get around. Public minibuses operate within the town and connect to nearby villages. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, but be aware that road conditions can vary.

The official currency in Guyana is the Guyanese Dollar (GYD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in New Amsterdam, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Georgetown before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

New Amsterdam is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some areas to be cautious of include the market areas and isolated neighborhoods at night. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The New Amsterdam Hospital is available for medical emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always be respectful in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly greeting or a nod is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience New Amsterdam like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Guyanese goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town’s history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the colonial-era buildings and the Canje River for a serene experience. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on the Berbice River.