Highlights

• Personable manager and caring staff.
• Stunning riverside views.
• Outdoor saltwater pool.
• Located near city center and attractions.

Background

The Courtyard Paramaribo by Marriott Hotel may feel like a regular Courtyard at first glance, but there is much more than meets the eye. With only a few high-end options in Paramaribo, the Courtyard strives to win the foreign market and has been succeeding well under new management.

Located near the historic downtown area, which was added to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2002, the hotel sits on the banks of the Suriname River. This gives the property a peaceful calm, but the center of the action is just a short walk or drive away.

Experience

I arrived from Guyana by bus and took a short taxi ride to the hotel. If coming from the international airport there is shuttle service for a worry free transfer.

The manager greeted me when I arrived and helped me through the registration process before I went up to my Guest Room which was bright and airy. The walls were painted a golden yellow which gave the room a warm glow, especially around sunset. There was a couch, coffee table, floating bookshelf, and work desk area. I also had complimentary internet access, satellite TV with premium movie channels, mini refrigerator, in-room coffee and an iPod dock. The bathroom was simple but functional with a shower, toilet, and sink.

Some of the larger rooms on the upper floors like the 1 Bedroom 2 Room Suite have their own terraces overlooking the river with a separate dining and seating area complete with a sofa, plush lounge chairs and a dining table set for four people. It also features a whirlpool in the master bath.

In all there are 135 guest rooms and 5 suites in the mid-rise building.

The flagship restaurant at The Courtyard Paramaribo is Flavors Restaurant which is open for all three meals of the day. The menu is primarily international dishes but includes some local flavors. Guests can also dine outside in the BBQ picnic area which is a popular addition to the hotel having become a favorite with the community. Visitors can also enjoy the Lobby Bar for a before or after dinner drink. There is also the Pool Bar serving fresh juice or cocktails.

The Courtyard Paramaribo’s Fitness Center is a decent size with cardio equipment, free weights and an all-in-one trainer. A highlight is the saltwater pool surrounded by the bar and garden. The newly renovated garden area has become a favorite hang out for locals and visitors alike. A playground is even available for children.

The Courtyard Paramaribo also caters to business and private events. There are three event rooms, Palm A, B and C, which can be combined or separated to suit different purposes. A pre-function foyer space that gives access to the pool and bar, can also be reserved. The smaller board room which is perfect for private gatherings.

Much of the apparent success of the hotel can be traced back to the new management. My entire stay was very comfortable mostly because the general manager made me feel at home, along with the rest of the regular clients at the hotel. The staff were also very take charge and willing to go the extra mile. The team places great emphasis on the local community and developed multiple initiatives to promote more interaction, for example I was lucky enough to witness ladies from the Suriname beauty pageant learning dining etiquette at the hotel!

Overall the Courtyard Paramaribo was a wonderful experience. The management and staff have improved an already great product to involve the community, enhance the stay with the pool and garden area, and maintain the quality of the brand. I highly recommend booking a room for both leisure and business travelers.

Contact
The Courtyard Paramaribo
Address: Anton Dragtenweg 52-54, Paramaribo, Suriname
Telephone: +597-4-56000
Website: http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/pbmcy-courtyard-paramaribo/