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It's a one-of-a-kind destination - See what makes Curaçao unique!
Exquisite beaches and spectacular diving, stunning architecture, activities and adventures for every interest, plus a multi-cultural diversity, intriguing music, art and cuisine.
Curaçao is an island in the southern part of the Caribbean Sea off the north coast of Venezuela. The island area of Curaçao, which includes the main island plus the small, uninhabited island of Klein Curaçao ("Little Curaçao"), is one of island areas of the Netherlands Antilles. Like Aruba and Bonaire, Curaçao is a transcontinental island that is geographically part of South America but is also considered to be part of West Indies and one of the Leeward Antilles.
Curaçao and the other ABC Islands are in terms of climate, geology, flora and fauna more akin to nearby Paraguaná Peninsula, Isla Margarita and the nearby Venezuelan areas of the Coro region and Falcón State. |
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Curaçao is the largest and most populous of the three so-called ABC islands (for Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao) of the Lesser Antilles, located just 12° north of the Equator, Curaçao has a warm, sunny climate year round. The average temperature is in the mid 80s F (about 27° C). Cooling trade winds blow constantly from the east, picking up in the spring months. The rainy season, which is between October and February, is usually marked by short, occasional showers, mostly at night, and continued sunny weather by day. Total annual rainfall averages only 570 mm (22 inches). Additionally, Curaçao is located on the outer fringes of the hurricane belt. Consequently, the frequency of hits by tropical storms is much lower than for other parts of the Caribbean.
It has a land area of 171 square miles (444 square km) and at first glimpse Curaçao may seem a rather barren island, and it's true-due to the scant rainfall, there is certainly a limit to the types of plants and animals that can survive here. But on closer inspection, you'll be amazed at the variety nature has to offer. The flora of Curaçao differs from the typical tropical island vegetation. Xeric scrublands are common, with various forms of cacti, thorny shrubs, evergreens, and the island's symbolic divi-divis. Curaçao's highest point is the 1,230 ft (375 m) Christoffelberg ("Mount Christoffel") in the northwestern part of the island. This lies in the reserved wildlife park, Curaçao Christoffelpark, and can be explored by car, bike or horse or on foot. Several trails have been laid out and there are Saliñas, salt marshes where flamingos fly out to rest and feed.
Curaçao is renowned for its coral reefs which makes it an excellent spot for scuba diving. The beaches on the south side contain many popular diving spots. An unusual feature of Curaçao diving is that the sea floor drops off steeply within a few hundred feet of the shore, and the reef can easily be reached without a boat. This drop-off is locally known as the "blue edge." Strong currents and lack of beaches make the rocky northern coast dangerous for swimming and diving. The southern coast is very different and offers remarkably calm waters. The coastline of Curaçao features many bays and inlets, many of them suitable for mooring.
A colorful mosaic of history and customs
Curaçao’s rich history comes alive in the stunning architecture to be seen all across the island—especially in its capital city, Willemstad
Where Colonial style meets Caribbean color
Curaçao’s ethnic inhabitants—the Arawak, Dutch, Spanish, West Indian, Latin, and African—have created a rich heritage and thriving culture. Explore the remarkable diversity of this amazing island!
Essential Facts:
Language: Dutch (official), Papiamento predominates, English widely spoken, Spanish
Capital and largest city: Willemstad, 60,100
Population: 223,472
Currency: Netherlands Antillean guilder
Departure Tax: An airport tax of U.S.$ 22.00 per person for international (including Aruba) flights and flights to Curacao, or U.S. $10.00 per personal for inter-island flights is payable when leaving the island
Electricity: Electricity is 110 - 130 volts/50 cycles, similar but not identical to the US standard. Travelers from both North America and Europe should bring adapters and other electrical converters in order to use their appliances and electrical devices in Curaçao.
Telecommunications: The telecommunications infrastructure in Curaçao is an essential link in the chain of the island's Economic Development. Curaçao's international country code is 599-9; there are no internal area codes. US 1-800 numbers can be reached from Curaçao by dialing 1-300 and the number.
Note: these calls are NOT toll-free. They are billed at the applicable international rate.
Entry Requirements: Tourists should be in possession of a valid passport, a return or outward ticket on arrival and sufficient funds for accommodations and food
The necessary documents for returning to the country of origin, or further travel elsewhere
What to pack: Since temperatures are warm throughout the year, light, casual tropical wear is in order. Outside, protect yourself from the sun. Most indoor establishments are air conditioned; you may need a lightweight jacket or long sleeves. Locals dress fashionably, particularly for indoor evening events; dress for outdoor festivals is decidedly casual. The strong trade winds may make wraparound and billowing skirts a problem. Some restaurants prohibit shorts or sandals; some casinos also require jackets for men. Overly revealing clothes and bathing suits are not appropriate, except on the beach. If you plan to walk in the countryside, wear sturdy shoes and long pants to protect your legs from the cacti.
Religions: According to the 2001 census, the majority of the inhabitants of Curaçao are Roman Catholic (85%).
Political status: Part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
Literacy rate: 97% (2003 EST.)
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