Life in the Fast Lane: A Survival Guide to Driving in Guyana (from a Woman Who Does It All)

I wear many hats. I'm a mom, a full-time employee, a small business owner, and a volunteer. My days are a mix of meetings, school drop-offs, grocery runs, office visits, and community events. I'm always on the go—and if you live in Guyana, you already know that just getting from Point A to Point B can feel like an extreme sport.

Yes, friends, I'm talking about driving in Guyana. Buckle up.

Driving here is not just a means of transportation—it's an adventure, a daily gamble, a test of patience and reflexes, and, let's be real, a mental workout. I love the independence of owning my vehicle and moving about freely. But I'd be lying if I didn't admit that many days I find myself asking—how in the world are some of these people allowed to drive?!

Every time I hit the road, my brain goes into overdrive. I'm not just driving for myself—I'm driving for the person in front of me, behind me, and on both sides. I anticipate every crazy maneuver, sudden brake, unexpected swerve, and wild overtake because that's what it takes to stay safe out here. And if you've ever been behind the wheel in Guyana, you know exactly what I mean.

Don't get me wrong—I've got a few choice words (and a rising blood pressure) every time someone does something absolutely reckless. But after years of dodging potholes and unpredictable drivers, I've developed unofficial rules for surviving Guyana's roads.

So, if you're new to driving here—or if you just need a moment to laugh through the madness—here's my guide to staying sane (and alive) on our local roadways:

1. Don't Drive Anything "Too Fancy"

Listen, I know it's tempting to treat yourself. You work hard, you deserve a nice car. But here's the thing—if your vehicle is too clean, sleek, or fancy, you become a magnet for the police. Like clockwork, you'll be pulled over.

Why? Because they just want to "talk." And by "talk," I mean ask you for a little "fine change." You know how the game goes. So if you're rolling in something that looks like it belongs in an auto magazine, be prepared to stop—a lot.

2. Tinted Windows? Protect Your Skin... and Your Wallet

We live in a tropical country, and that sun? It doesn't play. Tinted windows are essential for preserving their skin (and sanity) during midday commutes. But here's the catch: too much tint, and once again, you're a target.

You'll be pulled over and asked to "show face." Even if your tint is within legal limits, you might still need to fork out a "little thing" to avoid a ticket or worse. So tint responsibly and keep a bit of cash handy—just in case.

3. Follow the Speed Limits (Even If They Make No Sense)

One moment, you're in a 60 km/h zone; the next, it's 40. Sometimes, there's a sign; sometimes, there's not. But make no mistake—the cameras are watching.

Speed cameras have become a silent but deadly feature on our roads. They don't blink, they don't forget, and they don't care if you were "just overtaking real quick." Do yourself a favor—stick to the limits, no matter how random or inconsistent they may seem.

4. Dash Cams Are Not a Luxury—They're a Necessity

If you drive in Guyana and don't yet have a dash cam installed, you're playing with fire. I can't count how often I've relied on dashcam footage to prove a point, defend myself, or simply keep my peace of mind.

Between the sudden lane changes, the bold overtakes, and the "I swear it was your fault" arguments, a dash cam might save your life—or at least your license.

5. Let the Big Guys Pass

Minibuses, taxis, and trucks—they're always in a rush. Always. It's like there's a prize waiting for them at the finish line.

You might be tempted to stand your ground, hold your lane, and prove a point. Don't. Just don't. Let them pass. Being alive is better than being "right." Let them fly by and carry their chaos elsewhere. Your sanity and safety are worth more.

6. Don't Expect Common Sense

This one's tough to accept but crucial: do not expect the average driver to use common sense.

It's a hard pill to swallow, especially when you play by the rules and just want to get home in one piece. But once you accept that logic and courtesy are optional for many on the road, you'll manage your expectations and stress levels better.

I've learned to laugh through it (sometimes), cry through it (rarely), and cuss through it (more often than I'd like to admit). But the critical part? I'm still here. I'm still driving and making it happen.

Bonus Tip: Take a Break & Treat Yourself

When the madness of the road gets too much, don't forget to pull over—not just literally, but mentally. Recenter. Breathe.

And if you're on the East Coast, do yourself a favor: stop by Grand Coastal Hotel and grab their weekend special. Trust me—beef is life. One bite and all your road rage will melt away. (Okay, maybe not all of it, but enough to keep going.)

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