Between Brazil and Suriname lies a land that looks like an independent country — but it’s actually a part of Europe! Welcome to French Guiana, a French territory 6,000 km away from mainland France. In the 17th century, France turned this jungle-covered region into a colony — built by African slaves and European convicts sent here as punishment. Over time, slavery ended, and French Guiana became a full department of France — meaning it uses the euro, follows French laws, and enjoys a European sta