Papiamento, the Language of Curacao

Learn a few words and phrases in Papiamento before you visit Curacao

Curacao, an island in the Southern Caribbean that is part of the Netherlands Antilles, is quite a unique place, even for the Caribbean. So unique, in fact, that there is a special language that originated on the island. Spoken only in the Dutch ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao), Papiamento (or Papiamentu), is a combination of Dutch, Portuguese, Spanish and English (with a few French and Indian words thrown in as well).

When you visit Curacao, you'll be greeted right outside the airport by a sign announcing, "Bon Bini." This is Papiamentu for "Welcome." Here are a few useful phrases for you to learn:

Kon ta bai? How are you?
Mi ta bon I am fine
Bon dia Good morning
Bon tardi Good afternoon
Bon nochi Good night
Bon bini Welcome
Danki Thank you
Por fabor Please
Kwan tor tin? What time is it?
Mi kier... I want...
Sunchi a kiss
Dushi darling or sweetheart
Kwanto esaki ti costa? How much does this cost?