One of the most common questions I get is, “What’s your favorite country that you’ve visited?”

It’s a tough question. How do I compare places? Italy had the best food. Indonesia had the best adventures. Every time I’ve gone to the Czech Republic I’ve had a blast. I lived in China for a year, and it holds a special place in my heart. I love the food and culture and have been there almost 10 times. But it’s not my favorite.

As I think more and more about it, one place continuously comes to the front of my mind: Suriname.