I am in France (I think?!?)

Could I really be in France? I entered the French Guyana and in the immigration office they just waved me out mumbling something about European Union. No stamp. Just like home. I always thought French Guyana was some kind of old-time colony where the name means that they speak French, rather than actually BEING French.

Something like the Netherlands Antilles.

I am currently in a shared taxi on the way to Cayenne (the capital) from the border. At least roads and vehicles they look as were of French standard, unlike the rubbish on the other side of the Brazilian border. I travel in such style and with so much space that I can even write my blog as I go.

According to the only other guy in the taxi who appears to be able to utter some few words in English, this is a French territory that never gained independence. He says it is now held in check by the French government, who does little to actually develop business in the region and instead prefers to just pay out unemployment and pension benefits to its few citizens. “Making a loss” on French Guyana seems to be worthwhile as France then would be able to keep CNS (the French Space Centre), which since 1980 has launched two thirds of the world’s satellites from its superior location almost on the equator. But as long as Paris pay their checks every month, I guess independence is not a priority.

It seems like a bit of a controversial topic but I think it makes sense somehow. I quite like this guy. He is a patriot. But I will stay out of the politics for sure.