Curaçao (pronounced "Cure ah sow") is an island in the Caribbean about thirty miles north of Venezuela. The island, along with the four other islands of the Netherlands Antilles, is a self-governing part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. American Airlines offers daily nonstops to Curacao from Miami. (Curacao's national airline as well).
Curacao can be less expensive and less crowded than its closest neighbor, Aruba, making it an excellent choice for a Caribbean vacation.
Overview of Curacao
Curacao offers beautiful beaches alongside turquoise Caribbean waters. The island itself is hilly and dry with tall cactus plants dotting the landscape. Within Willemstad, the capital, are centuries-old forts and colorful Dutch colonial architecture. In the city center, the floating Punda market is the spot to buy fruit, vegetables and fish from Venezuelan vendors who ferry their wares in small sailboats.
Language and Culture
Curacao's population of 150,000 blends together over 40 different nationalities. The island has a unique cultural blend of European and Latin American traditions. The official language is Dutch, although visitors will also hear English, Spanish, and Papiamento (a blend of Dutch, Portuguese, Spanish and English unique to the island). About 30 percent of Curacao's annual visitors are Dutch.
Activities in Curacao
As throughout the Caribbean, water sports are popular activities among visitors. Several dive spots across the island range from beginner to expert. Windsurfing, sailing and snorkeling are also popular. The scenic Dutch colonial town of Willemstad offers shopping, restaurants and unique architecture. Gambling is legal in Curacao, and many of the resorts have casinos with slot machines, table games and Bingo. Major attractions in Curacao include:
Weather
Curacao's tropical weather averages temperature in the mid-80s (Farenheit) year round.
Where to Stay
Accomodations on the island range from luxury beachfront resorts to quaint historic inns.
Entry Requirements
US and Canadian citizens are required to show a passport or birth certificate and photo ID, as well as a return ticket home.
Currency
Curacao uses the Netherlands Antillean guilder (or the florin), although everyone accept U.S. dollars as well. The exchange rate is about 1.77 NAFl to $1 U.S.
