The Land of  The Îles du Salut, The Trésor Nature Reserve

& Leatherback Turtles

Information about Relocation to French-Guiana

• The capital city of French Guiana is Cayenne with about 55 thousand people. French Guiana is an Overseas Department of France and, as such, is an integral part of the French Republic.

• Languages: The languages spoken are French (official), though most of the population speaks a Creole patois. English is also widely spoken. The TV programs are in their original language.

• Population: The population is about 180 thousand people - 66% are black or mulatto, 12% white, 12% East Indian, Chinese, Amerindian, 10% other.

• Expat areas: Popular areas for the Expat community are Cayenne and Kourou.

• Housing: The availability of apartments and houses in the country varies. Most Expats rent their apartment or house; some buy their homes. Both options are available but mainly depend on your company policy, income, and the length of your stay.

• Cost of housing: Varies from area to area and the size of the house or apartment. The local currency is Euro (€).

• Transportation: Bus: Cayenne and its suburbs are served by a regular bus network. Buses do not run on Sundays. Taxi: Available in Cayenne.

• Bank: The banks are open Monday-Friday 7.45 am - 11.30 am and 3.00 pm - 5.00 pm.

• Shopping: Is generally done from Monday-Saturday 8.00 am - 1.00 pm and 4.00 pm - 6.30 pm. Sundays 9.00 am - 1.30 pm.

• Climate: Tropical. Dry season is August to December; rainy season is December and January and April to July. Hot all year round, with cooler nights. Average temperature is 27°C (85°F).

• Culture: There are nightclubs in Cayenne, Kourou and St Laurent du Maroni. Cayenne also has one cinema featuring French-language films. Cinemas can also be found in Kourou and St Laurent.

• Public holidays: January 1st-New Year's Day; January 6th-Epiphany; February (date varies)-Ash Wednesday; March/April (dates vary)-Good Friday/Easter Monday; May 1st-Labour Day; June 10th-Abolition of Slavery Day; July 14th-Bastille Day; August 15th-Assumption; November 1st-All Saints Day; November 2nd-All Souls Day; November 11th-Veterans Day; December 25th-Christmas Day.