Georgetown

Georgetown is the capital and largest city of Guyana, set on the Atlantic coast where the Demerara River meets the sea. Its low-rise centre is known for wooden colonial buildings, tree-lined avenues, canals and a blend of Caribbean, South American and British influences.

Founded as the Dutch settlement of Stabroek and renamed Georgetown in 1812 in honour of King George III, the city keeps its colonial character visible. Landmarks include the tall timber St. George's Cathedral, the cast-iron clock tower of Stabroek Market, the Gothic-style City Hall and the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

Central Georgetown concentrates government offices, banks and the busy Stabroek Market district, while Regent Street is the main shopping area and Sheriff Street anchors the nightlife scene. The National Museum, Walter Roth Museum of Anthropology, Botanical Gardens, Promenade Gardens and the Atlantic sea wall offer history, green space and local life.

As Guyana's commercial and administrative hub, Georgetown hosts the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat and is closely tied to the country's expanding oil and gas economy, which draws a growing number of business travellers. Its food scene mixes Creole, Indian, African, Chinese and Portuguese traditions, with dishes such as seven curry, pepperpot, roti and fresh Demerara seafood.

Whether visiting for business, conferences, culture or as a base for trips into the interior, Georgetown offers a compact and distinctive introduction to the only English-speaking country in South America.