When it comes to planning a trip where the fun in the sun and beaches you only see on television are concerned, the Caribbean is one of the premier destinations in the world. It is an area that people flock from all over to admire the beauty and fun the Caribbean delivers.
Often when people think about going to the Caribbean, they look into visiting St. Kitts, Grand Cayman, Saint Martin, or Antigua. These are amazing places that have so much to offer visitors, but they are not the only choices. There is an island that tends to get overlooked by many: Curacao. Curaçao is an island, and together with the neighboring islands of Bonaire and Aruba, it's part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.
Climate of Curacao
In Curaçao, the climate is tropical, hot all year round, with daytime temperatures ranging from around 28/29 degrees Celsius (82/84 °F) between December and February to about 31 °C (88 °F) between May and October. The period from May to October is the most sultry, but the trade winds constantly blow, tempering the heat. The only relatively rainy period is from October to December, when, however, precipitation does not go beyond 80/100 mm (3.1/4 in) per month. The sea in Curaçao is warm enough to swim in throughout the year: the water temperature reaches a low of 26 °C (79 °F) in February and March and a high of 29 °C (84 °F) in September and October.
Pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and near-perfect year-round weather are just a few reasons to love Curacao. Disconnect from the stress of everyday hustle and bustle and lose yourself in the tranquil sounds of the island. Walk barefoot on the beach or go for a swim in the crystal clear waters and discover the magic of the Caribbean.
Curacao is a beautiful island that is located just east of Aruba and just off the coast of Venezuela. Curacao has so much to offer visitors, and here are five reasons as to why Curacao needs to be on anyone's radar if they're looking to take a trip to the Caribbean.
1. The Beaches
Anyone traveling to the Caribbean is going because of their desire for fun under the sun. There are 35 different beaches to hit while visiting Curacao. So many beaches considering that it only takes an hour and a half to drive the length of the island. Every beach has a personality of its own; there is a beach that will suit any visitors' desires.
2. Affordability
Sticking to a budget is important to every traveler, and Curacao can help travelers stay within that budget. Curacao is ranked as one of the most affordable of the Caribbean islands to visit. Another great thing about Curacao is that it is located outside the hurricane belt, so traveling during storm season doesn't pose a real issue.
3. Nightlife
For those who are looking to fill your days and nights with fun, Curacao has a hopping nightlife scene. Live music is a staple of this multicultural island, and all types of music can be heard, from jazz to soca. There is going to be the perfect bar or watering hole for any traveler.
4. Art
If you are looking to partake in a bit more of a sophisticated type of fun, there are plenty of arts across the island to enjoy. From excellent art galleries to stunning murals across the cities, there is art to be enjoyed everywhere. There are also multiple museums for visitors to see and enjoy.
5. Culture
The island of Curacao is a multicultural place that has a varied history. Citizens of Curacao carry a Dutch passport, but from the native Arawak people to the Spanish, Portuguese, and Jewish peoples, there have been a lot of influences on this island. Its close proximity to South America also adds to its diversity.
Curacao is a place that every traveler needs to consider. It is a beautiful island that has as much to offer travelers as any of the other more popular island destinations. Maybe the fact that this island flies under the radar of many Caribbean travelers can be another reason as to why it is such a great place. Happy travels!
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The history of Curaçao begins with Amerindian Arawaks. The Arawaks and their subgroups migrated from regions of South America some 6,000 years ago, settling on various islands then discovered as they embarked on a centuries-long northward trek. The group that ended up in Curaçao was the Caiquetios, who gave the island its name.
In many ways, Curaçao is the historical nexus of the Netherlands Antilles. The island, with its large and protected natural port, was chartered before the 16th century and eventually became a significant center for mercantile commerce. It is the birthplace of Papiamentu (as it is spelled on Curaçao), the polyglot lingua franca of the ABC Islands which is spoken to an extent as far north as the Netherlands Antilles islands of Sint Eustatius, Saba, and Sint Maarten. And the island is, on another level, the birthplace of the famous liqueur, Curaçao, perhaps more well known in some circles than the island itself.
Discover the most colorful island in the Caribbean. The vibrant streets of Curacao are sure to excite history buffs and delight your senses. Local legend has it that these buildings were once white, but the bright reflection of the sunlight caused the then Governor-General to have migraines. Allegedly he requested the buildings illustrate any color other than white giving Curacao the colorful reputation it has today!
Quietly tucked in the southern part of the Caribbean, Curacao is truly a hidden gem. The country's capital, Willemstad, is characterized by colorful Dutch architecture that dates back to the 17th century. Designated as a UNESCO world heritage site, Willemstad is a beautiful blend of an ancient European city and a lively island oasis.
Designate some time to get to know the island's unique history on your next vacation. Click on the link below and we can start planning your vacation to Curacao.
Curacao is a nation full of natural beauty and rich history. Initially settled by the Spanish, Curacao quickly became a global trading hub when the Dutch West India Company took lead of the island in the early 1600s. Since then, the island has become a melting pot of European and Caribbean culture with most natives speaking up to four languages!
The ethnic diversity that is the signature of Curacao culture can be seen in many facets of island life. Curacao is a country diverse in heritage and ethnicity. In fact, 42 different ethnic groups call this Dutch Antilles island home. The island's residents, most of which are of European or African descent, represent various cultural heritages and have a strong sense of cultural awareness.
European Influences
At first glance, the buildings of Curacao might seem like a more colorful version of Amsterdam. That's because the island was colonized by the Dutch after gaining its independence from Spain in the 17th century. Look beyond the bright colors, and you'll see Dutch architecture, cobblestone streets, and open-air plazas that are all reminiscent of an old European city.
The influence of Dutch culture on Curacao is evident throughout the island, from the centuries-old colonial buildings to the remnants of plantation life seen in the landhuizen houses. As the official languages of Curacao, Dutch, Papiamentu, and English are taught in schools and spoken in business and government. As soon as the Dutch arrived in Curacao and established themselves as rulers of the country, they had an effect on all levels of society. About four percent of the Dutch population in Curacao was born in Holland.
Thousands of Dutch people have made Curacao their homeland. Many Curacaoan students leave the island to study in Holland; some come back with a degree, while others never return to the island.
Jewish Culture
The Jews are another ethnic group that settled on Curacao and had a significant impact on the island's culture. The first Jewish settlers came to Curacao around 1659 from places such as Amsterdam, Europe, and South America, trying to escape the remnants of the Spanish and Portuguese Inquisitions. The Dutch Protestant environment in Curacao didn't limit the freedom of the Jews, and there were no laws against their employment or residences. As a result, they became highly successful in the trade and shipping industry.
From the time they first arrived on the island seeking relief from persecution, the Jews had a significant impact on Curacao's politics, culture, and economy. By the early 18th century, the Jewish population on the island reached about 2,000 people. In 1732 the Jews established the Mikve Israel Emanuel Synagogue in Willemstad. This synagogue still stands today and is one of the oldest temples still in use in the WesternHemisphere.
African Heritage
The heart of Curacao's heritage beats with the rhythm of African culture, and the majority of the island's population consists of people of African descent. These islanders have overcome a history of slavery and oppression to establish an intriguing culture that resonates throughout the island's language, music, art, and beyond.
Although Curacao's official language is Dutch, most of the islanders speak a dialect called Papiamentu. Curacaoans even spell the name of their island Korsou, which is a Papiamentu word. This Creole language originates from a mixture of Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, and several African languages. The islanders speak Papiamentu, which has been used on the island for about 300 years, just as well as they speak Dutch. This multifaceted language came from an oral tradition and was meant to be expressed more so than written. Because of this, you may find different spellings of the same word used throughout the island.
One of the most enduring manifestations of African culture on Curacao is music. Tambu, an ancient form of music and dance, can be attributed to the island's African heritage. The Africans brought to Curacao as slaves passed along the traditional rhythms from generation to generation. The beat of a drum is the foundation of the tambu. Initially, slaves used farm equipment as makeshift instruments. Later, they used small hollow cargo containers covered with goatskin. Many fascinating musical instruments are used to carry on the African musical traditions on Curacao. These include the bastel, a horn made from a cow's horn; the chapi, made from a hoe and metal rod; and the carco, a drilled conch shell that is used as a horn. From Europe to Africa, the diverse heritage of Curacao has blended to create a beautiful tropical culture.
Dutch, Papiamentu, and English are the official languages of Curaçao.
The official currency of Curaçao is the Netherlands Antilles guilder (also called the florin). The guilder is tied to the U.S. dollar at a rate of $1 (USD) to NAf1.75. Coins of the Netherlands Antilles guilder are issued in denominations of NAf0.01, NAf0.05, NAf0.10, NAf0.25, NAf0.50, NAf1, and Naf2.50. Notes are issued in denominations of NAf5, NAf10, NAf25, NAf50, NAf100, and Naf250.
The U.S. dollar is widely accepted on the island by all sorts of vendors, although service vendors may have trouble changing large bills given in either U.S. dollars or the Netherlands Antilles guilders. There are no restrictions for bringing cash into the country.
The majority of the population is Roman Catholic, with Protestant minorities, both evangelical and other low-church denominations. There is also a Baha'i temple and a synagogue.
Curacao Carnival
Give yourself the chance to experience one of the most elaborate and longest-lasting festivals in the Caribbean. The Curacao Carnival takes this annual celebration to new levels with its vibrant and energetic festivities. Carnival is a great time to visit the island if you're in the mood for music, dancing, and larger-than-life costumes parading through the streets. The festivities always end on Ash Wednesday, so it's time to get the party started!
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The best way to get around Curaçao is by car. Some of Curaçao's hotels offer area shuttles, and the public buses cover the majority of the island, but service is infrequent, especially outside of Willemstad. If you want to explore the island on your own time, then you'll want your own set of wheels. Taxis are available from Curaçao's primary airport, Curaçao International Airport (CUR), about 8 miles northwest of Willemstad. However, cabs can be expensive, especially if you are planning to use them frequently.
By Rental Car -- Driving in Curaçao is easy. Valid U.S., British, Australian, and Canadian licenses are honored. The minimum age to rent for many companies is 25. Driving is on the right side, and road signs use international symbols.
By Taxi -- Most taxis are metered, but drivers in unmetered cabs carry an official rate sheet. Fares rise 20% after 8 pm, and some go up a few dollars more after 11 pm and on holidays. In town, taxis are easiest to get on the Otrobanda side of the floating bridge. You can also call tel. 599/9-869-0752. Taxi island tours are $50 per hour for up to four passengers. Taber Tours (tel. 599/9-868-7012 or 567-6770; www.tabertours.com) specializes in hotel transfers and island tours for big groups.
By Bus -- Most of the large hotels operate a free shuttle to Willemstad's shopping districts, but public transportation is limited. Large yellow buses (also called "convoys") cover the most traveled urban routes, and bus terminals are outside the post office on the Waaigat inlet in Punda and next to the underpass in Otrobanda. Fares in town and east of Willemstad are $1 and maybe more to the western end of the island. Buses run most city routes hourly, every 2 hours for points west, and less frequently on Sunday.
Never be far from the fun when you visit Curacao. Regardless of where you stay, everything is only a short drive away. This small Caribbean paradise is perfect for a long weekend getaway. Gather your friends for a weekend of fun and adventure or plan a solo trip to relax and disconnect.
Things TO DO while visiting Curacao
Wake up. Swim. Repeat. Waste no time traveling to the beach and book a room right on the water. The famous Willemstad lagoon is the perfect spot to call home during your stay on Curacao. Jump right in the clear turquoise water or take a boat directly out to the ocean for a cruise around the island.
Have you ever ridden a pontoon bridge? The Queen Emma Pontoon bridge, also known as the Swinging Old Lady, spans the St. Anna Bay in Curacao. Connecting Punda and Otrabanda in the capital city of Willemstad, the bridge with its colorful arches is an iconic national treasure. Worried you might get stuck on one side? Never fear! Pedestrians are still allowed to cross the bridge with a little help from a ferry to finish the journey.
Almost as colorful as the buildings themselves, the birds of Curacao blend in perfectly with the island's vibrant atmosphere. From the buildings to the fruits and the birds, the colors of Curacao are sure to brighten your stay. Surround yourself with color and excitement when you escape to this island paradise.
Start your day off slow and relax into the laid-back tempo of the island. Nap on the beach for a spell or have a lazy afternoon lying in a hammock. Let your worries drift away with the tides while you do as much or as little as you'd like. When you are visiting Curacao, you are on island time.
The day isn't over when the sun goes down. The nightlife on Curacao is almost as famous as the beaches. Start the evening off at Hemingway for a sunset toast then head to the nearby Mambo Beach and Wet & Wild for live music and dancing that goes well into the night. These well-known hot spots are favorites amongst locals and tourists alike!
Needing some more things to do while vacationing in Curacao? Here is a list of items you might like to see while in Curacao...
- Take in culture-filled capital
- Stop by a historic synagogue
- Explore natural landscapes
- Sample rich cuisines
- Eat from a food truck
- View African artifacts
- Swim the enchanting coastline
- Attend Thursday Punda Vibes
- Jumping off the 40-foot clifftop at Playa Forti
- Check out street art
- Buy Curaçaoan crafts
- Visit the blue lizards
Looking for some family fun adventures while in Curacao? Here is a list of the top things to do in Curacao with your family...
- Hit the Beach at Seaquarium Beach, Playa Lagun, Blauwbaai, or at Daaibooi
- Ride a Choo-Choo
- Feed an Ostrich
- Meet Some Dolphins
- Tour Ancient Caves
- Learn All About Fish
- Explore Under the Sea in a Submarine
Looking for the best photo opp. or just in need of a good selfie to show off your time in Curacao? Hit up these photography "hot spots" while you are vacationing.
- Kokomo Beach
- Playa Porto Mari
- Grote Knip beach on Curaçao
- Limoncello view - a perfect break
- Curaçao - The wild north shore
- Curaçao Sea Aquarium view
- Old Lighthouse
- Cauraçao Island view
Intrigued by ALL the things Curacao offers its visitors? I'd love to assist you in planning your vacation to Curacao, so be sure to click on the button below when you're ready to start planning!
Curacao cuisine celebrates the island's history with a unique blend of Dutch and Caribbean inspired dishes. Seafood is the main staple in Curacao, and there's no shortage of fresh seafood caught daily around the island.
So, to help you prepare and plan for your trip to the island, here are some dishes you must indulge in.
Foods To Try While Vacationing in Curacao
- Keshi Yena- a cheesy signature dish of Curacao
- Bitterballen- Bitterballen are deep fried meaty balls that are usually eaten alongside a 'biertje' (beer). Often part of a 'bittergarnituur', a platter laden with huge chunks of Gouda cheese, 'loempias' (spring rolls), and spicy mustard.
- Oliebollen- Basically, they are deep fried sweet dumplings dusted with powdered sugar.
- Funchi or Tutu- Tutu is a popular side dish on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao and is often substituted for rice or any starch on a meal.
- Stroopwafels- A stroopwafel is a Dutch derived wafer cookie made from two thin layers of baked dough joined by a caramel filling.
- Stoba- a type of beef stew
- Poffertjes- a delicious Dutch pancake that is popular throughout the island
- Arepas- Arepa is a type of food made of ground maize dough, and usually stuffed with meats and grilled veggies.
- Seafood
Drinks with a view are one of the many specialties on the island of Curacao. Let your worries slip away as you bask in the warm sun with a refreshing drink in hand. Start your morning off with a swim before heading to the bar to enjoy a cocktail or smoothie made from locally grown fruits including mango, coconut, and papaya.
Curacao is an absolute dream of a place to visit. Sipping a cold drink, while taking in the stunning scenery before you, and relax into the heavenly rhythm of the island life.
Drinks To Try
No trip to Curacao is complete without trying Blue Curacao. This famous local liqueur produced from the dried peel of the Laraha citrus fruit, grown right on the island. Mimicking the bright blue shade of the water, Blue Curacao offers a little taste of paradise. Ask the bartender to make you a Turqa & Cocos or a Blue Lagoon and enjoy the tropical flavors while in this tropical paradise!
- Amstel Bright & Brion beer
- Curaçao Liqueur
- Awa di Koko
- Awa di Lamunchi
- Fria
- Lovers
It doesn't matter what restaurants or cafes you choose to visit while in Curacao, but make sure you don't leave without indulging in some of the foods mentioned on this list! They are by far some of the greatest, tastiest options on the island.