Curacao Guide

The striking capital city of Willemstad resembles old Amsterdam itself, full of brightly painted Dutch colonial buildings sparkling in the bright sunshine, reflecting its very cosmopolitan flair. The largest, most populous (over 170,000) and developed of the ABC islands, Curacao (pronounced cure ah sow, as in female pig) changed hands several times before becoming one of the Netherlands Antilles in 1815. Just 40 miles off the northern coast of South America, Curacao offers visitors a vacation rich in color, a blending of sites, peoples, languages and cultures. English, Dutch, Papiamento and Spanish are widely spoken here. In fact, most of the island residents speak all four languages fluently, as do their close neighbors, Aruba and Bonaire.

St. Anna Bay cuts through Willemstad dividing the city into two parts, Punda and Otrabanda. The city center has an intriguing floating market where Venezuelan fruit and vegetable vendors hawk their trade alongside local fishermen. The unique Queen Emma pontoon bridge swings open 30 times a day to allow ships in and out of St. Anna Bay and connects the two sides of the city. Shopping of all kinds is available downtown with jewelry, china, electronic, and clothing stores lining the narrow, architecturally fascinating streets. The natural beauty of Curacao is best savored from Christoffel Park on the island’s western tip. This 4,500-acre park and wildlife preserve features stunning vistas overlooking pine and cactus covered hillsides, hiking trails, and a chance to see the native flora and fauna close up.

In addition to the many monuments, parks and historical sites such as Fort Amsterdam, visitors come to Curacao for its water sports activities. A 1,500-acre underwater park was established in 1983 protecting an endless variety of tropical marine life. With average temperatures ranging from 75°-85° F, low rainfall of 21 inches annually (below the hurricane belt), and a water temperature of 80° F, this is a perfect island to enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, water skiing, sailing, and deep-sea fishing. For those preferring land sports, golf, tennis, horseback riding, squash and hiking are available all around the island.

Accommodations, dining and entertainment encompass everything from A to Z. Large resort complexes, small Dutch inns, casinos, discos, and jazz clubs await your arrival. The international airport welcomes travelers from the world over, and the cruise ship port is one of the busiest in the Caribbean. Beaches are small and sometimes man-made, but the resorts have beautiful ocean front settings with all the amenities. Rental cars and many island tours are available daily. Take the plunge and discover the Dutch Caribbean.

Located in the southern Caribbean, the island of Curacao has a vibrant history that spans several centuries. Originally inhabited by the Arawak people, the island was discovered by Spanish explorers in 1499. The Spanish claimed the island and named it “Curacao” which means “healing” in reference to the medicinal plants found on the island.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Curacao became a hub for trade and commerce due to its prime location along major shipping routes. The Dutch West India Company took control of the island in 1634 and developed it into a major trading port for goods such as salt, sugar, and slaves. The Dutch also brought with them their language, culture, and architecture, which can still be seen on the island today.

In the late 18th century, Curacao played a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade. The island served as a major slave depot, where thousands of enslaved Africans were brought and sold to work on the plantations in the Caribbean and South America. This dark period in Curacao’s history is commemorated at the Kura Hulanda Museum, which showcases the island’s involvement in the slave trade and the stories of those who were enslaved.

In the 19th century, Curacao’s economy shifted from trade to oil production. The Royal Dutch Shell company established a refinery on the island in 1915, bringing industrialization and significant economic growth to Curacao. The refinery attracted workers from all over the Caribbean, contributing to the island’s diverse population.

During World War II, Curacao played a crucial role as a strategic location for the Allies. The island served as a base for U.S. naval operations and was heavily guarded to protect the oil supply from German attacks. The remnants of this military presence can still be seen at the abandoned Fort Amsterdam and other fortifications around the island.

In 1954, Curacao became an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, along with Aruba and the Netherlands Antilles. This status gave the island more control over its own affairs, leading to increased development and modernization.

Today, Curacao is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, colorful architecture, and rich cultural heritage. The island’s diverse population, influenced by Dutch, Spanish, African, and other cultures, creates a unique and welcoming atmosphere for visitors. With its rich history and promising future, Curacao continues to be a fascinating and vibrant destination in the Caribbean.