French Guiana_

French Guiana is technically part of France—and therefore the European Union—despite being located in South America. The European Space Agency launches rockets from the Guiana Space Centre, while inland rainforests harbor remarkable biodiversity and Maroon communities descended from escaped slaves maintain distinct cultures. The capital Cayenne shows French colonial heritage, while the Îles du Salut (including infamous Devil's Island) preserve remnants of the French penal colony. Rainforest lodges offer access to pristine jungle, and sea turtle nesting beaches are among the region's most important. French Guiana offers unusual juxtapositions: baguettes in the Amazon, EU passports in South American jungle.