Originally a Dutch colony in the 17th century, by 1815 Guyana had become a British possession. The abolition of slavery led to black settlement of urban areas and the importation of indentured servants from India to work the sugar plantations. This ethnocultural divide has persisted and has led to turbulent politics. Guyana achieved independence from the UK in 1966, and since then it has been ruled mostly by socialist-oriented governments. In 1992, Cheddi JAGAN was elected president in what is considered the country's first free and fair election since independence. After his death five years later, his wife, Janet JAGAN, became president but resigned in 1999 due to poor health. Her successor, Bharrat JAGDEO, was reelected in 2001 and again in 2006.

Georgetown - Capital of the country, situated in the county of Demerara

If you have a day or two to spend in Georgetown, check out the markets listed below, take a walk down Regent Street, or through one of the markets and have a gander at the Church, Umana Yama (Amerindian cultural center) or some of the older colonial buildings around town, especially on Main Street.

The local seawall is unimpressive, but worth a brief look or walk if you happen to be in the area, particularly on Sunday night when families come out and vendors hock peanuts and beers.