EVENTS CURAÇAO 2024

Publisher

Current Publications

Art Direction

Sibgraphix

Executive Director

Sheila Botton

Managing Editors

Ora Massabuau

Heidi Yates

Contributing Writers

Helen Griffith

Deya Mensche

Shari Reinhart

Gary Shwartz

Mark Lachovsky

Jennifer Cox

Photographers

Esther van Vliet

Gail Johnson

Turtle & Ray Productions

Sheila Botton

13th Edition -2024

Cover Photo: Esther van Vliet

Contacts: +1-438-520-6991

info@eventscuracao.com www.eventscuracao.com

PA NDO R A CARIBBEAN

Show your love for the Caribbean with a hand- nished charm.

OUR SPA PACKAGES ARE OFFERED TO OUR GUESTS AND ALSO PERFECT IN COMBINATION WITH THE DOLPHIN ASSISTED THERAPY PROGRAM FOR GUESTS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS AND THEIR RELATIVES. REVITALIZE AND ENJOY A DEEPENING RELAXATION ON VACATION AND EXPERIENCE DIFFERENT STYLES OF YOGA & BODY TREATMENTS.

IMMERSE INTO OUR SUSTAINABLE POOL FOR EXCELLENT HEALING BODY TREATMENT. A WATER TREATMENT WITH MAGNESIUM AND SALT MINERALS STIMULATES HEALTHY SKIN & EASES MUSCLE PAIN.

Relax

& feel at home in our cozy and stylish boutique hotel & wellness

Dolphin Suites, known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent service for our guests, is specifcally unique for its accessibility and services for guests with special needs.

It is one of the pearls of Curaçao, loved by couples and families seeking to stay close to Mambo Beach while enjoying the comfort of a peaceful accommodation offering all the facilities they need.

info@dolphinsuites-curacao.com

www.dolphinsuites-curacao.com

tel: +599 9 465-2700

WELCOME TO CURAÇAO!

When you’re not soaking up the sun or laying out on one of our 35 stunning beaches, you will find yourself immersed in a world of culture and color. The island is truly one-of-a-kind with its unique mix of Caribbean and European flair, close-knit communities, and refreshing dose of authenticity. One of the most iconic areas of the island is the capital city of Willemstad. The vibrant area, filled with outdoor cafés, shops, and some of the most notable sites on island, is also deemed a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Those who visit also love the variety of activities available on island. From the 70 dive spectacular dive spots to the museums, tours, and festival celebrations like Carnival. No matter what you do, we encourage you to take it all in and feel it for yourself.

Enjoy your stay and come back soon.

Warmly,

Curaçao Tourist Board

FEEL IT FOR YOURSELF

TOP 10 REASONS TO VISIT CURAÇAO

1. A GEM IN THE DUTCH CARRIBBEAN

The largest of the ABC islands, Curaçao is located right outside the hurricane belt. With temperatures averaging between 78-82 ° F year-round, it’s always a perfect time to visit the island.

2. DIRECT FLIGHTS TO PARADISE

Just a 2.5 hours plane ride from Miami, Curaçao is serviced by several cruise lines and major airlines o ering frequent direct/nonstop flights from North America.

3. A DESTINATION FILLED WITH ADVENTURE

The island’s unique rugged terrain makes it ideal for activities like hiking, mountain biking and ATV rides. Plus, with 70 designated dive sites and worldclass snorkeling, Curaçao is an underwater lover’s heaven.

4. BEACHES TO INDULGE

Curaçao has over 35 beautiful beaches, many secluded or nestled in private coves giving you space to swim, lounge and stretch out as you please. Many consider Curaçao’s beaches one of the island’s best-kept secret.

5. AN ABUNDANCE OF HISTORY & CULTURE

Home to 55 cultures, the island’s colonial buildings, forts, museums and other sights let you explore its rich heritage. The unique blend of Caribbean and European flair is truly better experienced than explained.

6. A WORLD OF COLOR

Brighten your world with a walk down the Handelskade, Willemstad’s historic waterfront. Cross the Queen Emma Bridge to discover vibrant murals created by local artists.

7. A BURST OF FLAVOR

Influenced by its distinct culture and history, Curaçao serves up a mouthwatering blend of cuisines. From fine dining to sidewalk cafés and beach bars to food trucks, let your tastebuds embark on a culinary journey.

8. A VARIETY OF FESTIVALS & EVENTS

There are numerous festivals throughout the year, each celebrating Curaçao’s unique culture, food, music and more. Join the island’s locals for music, sailing and other events — all organized with your safety in mind.

9. A “DUSHI” WELCOME FOR ALL

In the island’s Papiamentu language “dushi” means sweet, nice or beautiful, perfectly summarizing the welcoming spirit of its people. Curaçao has several hotels and attractions with IGLTA memberships and hosts a variety of Pride events.

10. ALL THE SPACE YOU NEED

Curaçao o ers something for everyone — ample space to roam and relax included. Ready to welcome back visitors from across the world and with strict guidelines in place, the island makes sure you can discover a new way to unwind.

curaçao events

16 Dig in & Explore island Life

18 Curaçao Carvival: Spectator or Partcipator?

25 Events Calendar 2024

27 Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival

28 Peace & Play at the Beach

36 A World of Adventure: by land & by sea

42 Spellbound Beneath the Surface

46 Dive, snorkle or Freedive to the Tugboat

50 Best Dive Sites

52 BRANCH - Coral Restoration

54 Jeep safari to the Summit of Mt.Christoffel

58 Preparing for the Bandabou Goldrush

62 Aloe Vera: The Plant of Immortality

66 The Heart of Willemstad

70 Island and City Maps

76 Meet "The Swinging Old Lady"

78 Punda Vibes

80 Art in the Heart of Curaçao

86 The Art Oasis of Curaçao

90

92

Singers Delve into New Rythms

CURAÇAO MARRIOTT BEACH HOTEL oceanfront gem with an authentic Caribbean flair

Escape to the sun-kissed waters of the Southern Caribbean at the stylish, elegant Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort.

Set on 6 oceanfront acres near Willemstad, our allnew Curaçao hotel offers the warm, dedicated hospitality for which the Caribbean is known. The ideal backdrop for your dream vacation, our tropical hotel is a cultured paradise that creates magical memories to last a lifetime. Our Curaçao family resort is located 15 minutes from Hato International Airport CUR and 5 minutes from historic Willemstad. Relax in newly renovated hotel rooms and gather in new meeting and event spaces. Savor 4 dining concepts featuring decadent international cuisine. Lounge by one of two sparkling swimming pools, an adults-only pool, and a large family pool. Hotel amenities include a kids club, fitness center, and snorkeling.

a burst of flavors!

Discover Zala Gastro Lounge at Curacao Marriott Beach Resort –a culinary paradise where exquisite dishes harmonize with the Caribbean’s beauty. Delight in diverse flavors, from succulent seafood to mouthwatering steaks, all amid an elegant ambiance. Sip handcrafted cocktails, relish premium wines, and immerse yourself in live music and captivating events.

Experience a symphony of taste and reserve your table for an unforgettable time.

Dig in & Explore Island Life

There are countless ways to enjoy Curaçao, but here are top 5 suggestions that will help you start planning your vacation of a lifetime!

Photo courtesy of Irie Tours

photo by: Esther van Vliet

Curaçao Carnival:

Spectator or Participator?

The Choice is Yours!

photos by: Esther van Vliet

The explosion of colors. The smiles. The history.

photo by: Esther van Vliet

CURAÇAO CARNIVAL 2025

photo by: Gail Johnson

photo by: Esther van Vliet

The Curaçao International Film Festival

April 10 to 14

Shine Fest Curaçao - 23-24 March

Good Friday: Official Holiday - March 29

Easter: Official Holiday March 31st

Curaçao International BlueSeas Festival 29-30 March

The Seú or Harvest Parade - DATE TBA

King’s Day: Official Holiday - April 27

Labor Day : Official Holiday May 1

Ascension Day: Official Holiday May 9

Curaçao Flag Day : Official Holiday July 2

Dia di Tula: Commemoration of the Slave Uprising August 17

Curacao North Sea Jazz Festival

August 29-30-31

World Clean Up Day - Date TBA

Curaçao Pride - TBA

Curaçao Day: Official Holiday

October 10

KLM Curaçao Marathon - Date TBA

Christmas Day: Official Holiday

December 25

New Year’s Eve

December 31

August 29th, 30th & 31st, 2024

Grab your tickets:

Visit: www.curacaonorthseajazz.com/en

CNSJF is the largest tourist and musical project in Curaçao’s history.

Peace & Play at the Beach

a beach for every reason

Curaçao is a tropical paradise, a haven of perpetual sunshine, rich cultural heritage, friendly locals, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. With an average of 29 C, accompanied by endless sunshine and a refreshing island breeze, the climate in Curaçao is a dream! Picture yourself reclining on a comfortable beach bed, gazing up at the vibrant blue sky and swaying palm trees, while indulging in the finest culinary delights that the island has to offer. Let's not miss the mesmerizing sunsets that paint the horizon with hues of gold, orange, pink, and red, providing a breathtaking spectacle as the sun sinks into the glittering Caribbean Sea.

Love you to the beach & back! Your only worry should be how the tide will reach your toes.

Curaçao consists of two areas: Banda Ariba (Papiamentu for the side above) and Banda'bou (Papiamentu for the side below). In Banda'bou you can find the unspoiled nature of Curaçao and Banda Ariba provides you with vibrant full-service beaches, many restaurants and bars and stores; both side serving cultural heritage. At center stage, the area called Piscadera Baai. From one end of the island to the other, there are over fifty beaches and each of them casts a magical spell...

Take a drive along the southern coast of Curaçao to discover a few of the distinct beaches. The beaches in Banda'Bou are quieter, especially during the week.

A World of Adventure by land & by sea

Curaçao has so much to offer, it's impossible to experience it all in a single visit.

Photos Courtesy of Irie Tours

Let the Adventure Begin!

Discover nature’s beauty under the open skies! Treat yourself to a boat tour and unwind in the glory of of the Caribbean Sea to discover spectacular coastlines and natural beauty above and below the water.

It is an ideal boat tour & experience for the whole family!

Photos Courtesy of Irie Tours

SPELLBOUND Beneath the Surface

From the untouched sanctuary of the island’s only National Marine Park in the east to the seemingly bottomless depths of the western reef walls, no two trips to Curaçao’s underwater paradise will ever be the same.

Download the EC app Where to Dive

A visit to Curaçao is an all access pass to countless opportunities to explore the island in all its charm and beauty... Just below the water line lives another breathtaking world, easily accessible and ever changing.

Photo by Gail Johnson

Curaçao’s recipe for Diving Bliss

• Crystal turquoise water warmed to 27°C (81°F) in February to 29°C (84°F) in July.

• 3mm-5mm short wetsuit.

• Spectacular wrecks & colorful reefs

• Gently stir in an abundance of varied and vibrant marine life.

This delicious recipe results in a savoury full course meal of countless species of sea life, a large variety of magnificent dive sites and sea encounters that ensure every level of diver complete satisfaction.

Photos by Turtle & Ray Productions

by Mark Lachovsky

Dive, snorkle or freedive to the

Tugboat Wreck

The famous tugboat wreck in Caracassbaai A must-visit for divers, snorkelers and free divers.

Best Dive Sites

From the south eastern tip known as “Oostpunt” to the northwestern tip known as “Westpunt”, the underwater world is completely different and unique. Eastern Curaçao also known as “Banda Ariba” is truly an unspoiled and largely still unexplored sanctuary inside of Curaçao’s only National Marine Park.

BRANCH

Building Reefs And Nurseries for Coral Habitats

Photos by Turtle & Ray Productions

CuraçaoWilderness on a Jeep Safari Tour

Christoffel Park is situated on what used to be four separate plantations which were purchased in 1978 by the government and merged into this breathtaking park of highlands and coastal wilderness. Today it is a protected 4,000 acre space in the care of the CARMABI Foundation; alive with incredible wildlife, beautiful botanicals. Located at the west end of the island, Christoffel Park is about 40 minutes from Willemstad and proudly boasts the island’s highest point, Mt. Christoffel which stands a proud 1,240 ft.

Photos by Sheila Botton

PreParing for the BandaBou

Goldrush

Curacao’s tourist economy is booming but not in Bandabou and in many ways this is a good thing. It allows the government to be forward-thinking as it plans for increased traffic to the Northwest of the island. Now is the time that Curaçao needs a vision for the economic viability of Bandabou. This vision starts with preserving the nature of the northwest.

Photos by Sheila Botton

Aloe Vera: The plant of immortality.

Photo by Sheila Botton

Step into the Aloe Vera Farm Curaçao and prepare to be amazed by the stunning sight of endless rows of aloe vera plants stretching out before you. The vibrant green leaves glisten in the sunlight, inviting you to delve into the world of this miraculous plant.

Photo Courtesy of Aloe Vera Farm

Photo by Sheila Botton

Photos Courtesy of Aloe Vera Farm

The Heart of Willemstad

Otrobanda, Punda, Scharloo & Pietermaai

Photos by Gail Johnson

After experiencing Curaçao’s fabulous, renowned “bocas” and beached yourself on its “playas,” you have many opportunities to discover the islands vibrant culture.

Photo by Gail Johnson for Events Curaçao

Photo by Gail Johnson

Noordpunt

playa gipy

playa kalki

westpunt ba

Westpunt

playa abou

groot kni

klein kni

playa jeremi

playa lagu

playa chikitu

Lagun

Caribbean S ea

Boca Tabla Cave

Savonet

boca santa cruz

santa pret

boca hu

boca hulu

Bar tol Baai

Barber

San Nicolas

boca pos spaño

Soto

playa mansaliñ

playa lar

San Juan

playa botu

Cas abou

playa chikitu

playa cas aba

playa porto mari

Legend

eaches

Major Roads

Local Roads

For ts

Wind Turbines

Urban Areas

Playa Grandi

Boca Ascencion

San Pedro Cave

boca santa maria Klein St Michiel

st.sebastian

Christoffel National Park 1,239ft H area

Tera Kora

St Willibrordus

playa daaiboo

Shete Boca

Boca Tabla Cave

Indian Rock Paintings

Idian Rock Paintings

Christoffel Park Cave

Christoffel National Park

Kas di Pal’i Maishi

Kas di Pal’i Maishi

Tera Kora WInd Farm

Tera Kora Wind Farm

Flamingo Area

Flamingo Area

Blue Bay Golf

Hato Caves

Blue Bay Golf

Hato Caves

Parke Tropical

Parke Tropicale

Curaçao Sea Aquarium Park

Industrial Areas

Medical Facilities

Ostrich Farm

Curaçao Sea Aquarium

Ostrich Farm

Herb Garden (Den Paradera)

Herb Garden- Den Pandera

The Aloe Vera Farm

jan kok

boca st marie

Bullenbaai

kaap St Marie

vaersenbaa

Grote Berg

blauwba

Juliana Dorp

boka mi

Fort Piscadera

Caribbean S ea

janb K

rif for

isla oil

playa

fort amsterdam ea

for t nassau

Suffisant

I

mambo

beach

SchijndeldiZusternanKaya

Abraham de Veerstraat

Fuikstraat

De Ruyterkade

Nieuwestraat

Theaterstraat

Julianaplein Ansinghstraat

Penstraat Concordiastraat

Johanvan Walbeeckplein

Kaya Wilson Godett

Pietermaai

C

Meet "The Swinging Old Lady" & other Bridge Members

The Ports of Curaçao

The

Vessel

Pilotage

Harbour

Willemstad

Punda Vibes!

The place to be every Thursday!

Every Thursday, memories are brought back to life as laughter and dancing fills the streets, and the people of Curaçao spend quality time with family and friends enjoying the unique fun atmosphere that has become iconic with Punda Vibes.

Photo by Esther van Vliet

art in the heart of Curaçao

STUNNING MURALS AT EVERY TURN

Photo by Sheila Botton

Photo courtesy of Irie Tours

Photo by Gail Johnson

Photos by Sheila Botton

Photo by Maggie Leeming

Save the date! Kaya Kaya Festival 24-08-2024!

Photos by Maggie Leeming

Photo courtesy of Kaya Kaya Festival

The ArT OAsis Of CurACAO

A SHOWCASE OF CREATIVE BRILLIANCE

Photo by Sheila Botton

Photos by Sheila Botton

Photos by Esther van Vliet

Photos by Sheila Botton

February 6th to15th 2025

Curaçao Singers

Delve into Kompa, Zouk & Kizomba Rhythms

by Deya Mensche

Where to Shop

The world of Pandora Jewelry is incredibly unique. Discover detailed design and craftsmanship brought to life with the magic of the stories told and interpreted through each hand-fnished piece. Pandora Jewelry is all about expressing who you are through your style. Give a voice to your loves through pieces that remind you of everything you are and everything you love — whether they are places, people, or passions. Discover Pandora’s island charms, and take a piece of Curacao home with you!

Sambil Mall

Veeris 27

(+599) 9 735 2098

Punda

Heerenstraat 4B

(+599) 9 465 4774

WWW.BOOLCHAND.COM/PANDORA

Open Monday to Saturday

Punda & Renaissance Mall from 9:30am to

Zuikertuin Mall from

to

Roberto Coin

Chopard Happy Heart Necklace

Hublot Big Bang Unico

Bulgari Serpenti Tubogas Watch

Breitling Super Ocean Heritage

David Yurman Mercer Bracelet

B ottled B lue B rillian C e

Never has a liqueur exemplified its place of origin as Senior Curacao of Curacao Liqueur.

Into the Blue Cocktails...

Blue Cosmopolitan: Blue Curacao, Cranberry Juice, Lemon Juice, Triple Sec, Vodka

Blue Sea: Blue Curacao, Malibu Rum, Pineapple Juice

Blue Shark: Blue Curacao, Vodka, White Tequila

INDULGE IN LUXURY:

BESPOKE TRAVEL

CURAÇAO EXPAT & LUXURY TRAVEL EXPERT

• Room upgrades

• $100+ Hotel credit

• Complimentary breakfast

• Early check-in and late check-out

• VIP Welcome amenity and more!

islAnd VOws: tying

the Knot in Paradise

Welcoming you and your Wedding Party to a Romantic Beach Paradise.

Paradise awaits Your Dream Vacation Home

Photo: The Shore @ Blue Bay Beach & Golf Resort

a n a CC essi B le d estination for r elaxation & i ns P iration

Discover Stones from the Past

One cannot be less than enthralled by the grandeur of these historic heritage houses. Throughout this beautiful island lie dozens of scattered houses, uniquely built, varying in size and contrasting states of both remarkable renovation and eerie dilapidation. Dating back as far as the early 17th century to as late as the 19th century, these were the houses of the landowners, and formed the epicenter of their plantation farms. Most of the landhuizen that surrounded the property are long gone, but many of them are still standing and serve a vast array of functions. Brilliantly painted and ornate in design, these exquisitely renovated beauties now serve as private homes, boutique hotels, restaurants, ofces, art galleries and museums.

Unforgettable forts of all sorts

ixteenth century stone walls rise majestically above blue water and tower over the harbor entrance. They cast shadows into the colonial city of Curacao while their cavernous tunnels and winding staircases take us back to a time hundreds of years ago when the Dutch East India Company built these massive masonry forts strictly for strategic defensive purposes.

The Dutch toiled for three centuries to secure the island and protect its interests. While Fort Amsterdam was built to serve as the island's primary protecting structure, several smaller forts were erected to protect individual sections of the capital city. Despite being under constant attack first by Spain, then England and France, eventually Venezuela and Germany, and repetitively by pirates and privateers this complex of forts accomplished the feat of protecting the Dutch colony for nearly 400 years.

When in Curaçao, it’s hard to miss the forts that once protected this colorful island.

The Jewish heriTAGe of Curaçao

In the center of Punda, at Hanchi Snoa (Synagogue Alley) stands the synagogue Congregation Mikvé Israel-Emanuel, one of Curacao’s historic treasures. The Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue is the oldest, continually used synagogue in the Western Hemisphere. But the Jewish influence on this beautiful small island goes much deeper than those walls...

f reedom f ighters

The Desenkadená (break the chains) monument that commemorates the fight against slavery during the 18th century.

Photo by Gail Johnson

Yield to Yoga in Curaçao

& FIND THE PEACEFUL PATH INWARDS

Sports & Adventure go hand in hand in Curaçao

The sun, island breeze and sea provide perfect atmosphere for water sports, even if you’re totally unexperienced. Always dreamed of surfing the Caribbean Sea? Well, this is your chance!

3.

4.

A large part of living your best life involves caring for both your body and spirit. No matter where your interests lie, you’ll find many opportunities to get moving, de-stress and have fun during your stay on our little island.

PiCkleb All in Paradise

Packing your bag for Curaçao?

Paddle: Check. Court shoes: Check. Curaçao is about to become the hub for Pickleball in the region! c

Where to Stay

from Laid Back to Lavish

Finding a wonderful place to stay in Curaçao is a breeze, but choosing the perfect spot for your holiday can be a bit more challenging. With a wide variety of accommodations to suit any budget and preference, Curaçao offers something for everyone. From simple and cozy options to lavish and distinctive choices, start your search here to find the perfect place to call home during your stay.

ACOYA acoyacuracao.com

AVILA BEACH HOTEL avilahotel.com

BAOASE LUXURY RESORT baoase.com

BLUE BAY BEACH & GOLF RESORT bluebay-curacao.com

CITY SUITES HOTEL citysuitescuracao.com

CHOGOGO RESORT chogogo.com

DOLPHIN SUITES & WELLNESS dolphinsuites-curacao.com

DREAMS dreamscuracao.com

ELEMENTS HOTEL & SHOPS elementscuracao.com

KUNUKU AQUA RESORT kunukuresort.com

KURA BOTANICA kurabotanica.com

LAGUN BLOU RESORT lagunblou.com

LIONS DIVE & BEACH RESORT lionsdive.com

MARRIOTT BEACH RESORT marriott.com/curacao.com

MORENA RESORT morenaresort.com

PAPAGAYO BEACH RESORT papagayo.com

PIETERMAAI BOUTIQUE HOTEL pietermaaiboutiquehotel.com

RENAISSANCE CURAÇAO RESORT marriott.com/renaissance

SCUBA LODGE OCEANFRONT scubalodge.com

SUNSCAPE CURAÇAO RESORT sunscapecuracao.com and many more!

Where to Eat from

Laid Back to Lavish

From hidden gems on wheels to luxurious dining experiences by the shoreline, Curaçao presents a bounty of culinary delights that will leave you craving for more. Embark on a delicious adventure and discover a world of flavors that will captivate your taste buds. With every bite, create unforgettable memories that will linger long after you leave. Begin your search here and uncover the ideal culinary destination.

BALI balicuracao.com

CASCADA cascadacuracao.com

CULINARY BEACH baoase.com

CEVICHE 91 ceviche91curacao.com

C-SPICE www.marriott.com

CHILL BEACH BAR & GRILL chillcuracao.com

DE HEREEN AT SEA deheerenatsea

DES DAMES dedames.io

EETCAFÉ DE BUURVROUW debuurvrouwcuracao.com

FISH & JOY BISTRO https://fshandjoy.com

DE GOUVERNEUR de-gouverneur.com

EL GAUCHO gauchocuracao.com

HEMINGWAY hemingwaycuracao.com

IL FORNO ilfornocuracao.com

IGUANA CAFE facebook.com/iguanacafecur

KOME komecuracao.com

LA BOHEME kurabotanica.com

MOOD BEACH moodbeachcuracao.com

OLAS & COPAS olasycopas.net

ZALA Zala-Gastro Lounge and many more!

Photo courtesy of Culinary Beach

A World of flAvor

Look out onto bright neon colors that make up the town’s unique skyline, listen to the Curacaoan speak in its native Papiamento, and delight in the island cuisine that crosses the international flavors of Dutch heritage with a melting pot of Caribbean cultural influences. Curacao is rich and diverse in history lending itself wholeheartedly to the creation of rich and diverse menus all over the island making local cuisine one of Curacao’s great treasures. You would certainly miss out if you didn’t dine like a local. Food is deeply influenced by all its nationalities, particularly its large population of African descent, so experience fusion cuisine at its finest by choosing local eateries.

Looking for an unforgettable and authentic dining experience?

Make your way to Plasa Bieu and indulge!

While you're out exploring the island, you’ll come across numerous food trucks known as Truki pans & juice bars known as Batitos, conveniently stationed throughout the island.

Handelskade, Willemstad

Mon-Fri | 9am–11pm

Sat-Sun | 9am–12am

7 Days | 7am–10pm

T: (5999) 465-0740

hemingwaycuracao.com

7 Days | 7am–10pm

T: (5999) 736 8800

marriott.com

ANDAN ICE CREAMPARLO

GENERAL INFORMATION

LOCATION

Curaçao is located in the southwestern Caribbean, at latitude 12° North and longitude 68° West. The island is 56 km (35 miles) off the coast of Venezuela, 2 ½ hours from Miami or 9 hours from Amsterdam. Capital City: Willemstad

NATIONALITY

Curaçaoan Population: 161,014 and growing

LANGUAGES

Papiamento, Dutch, Spanish, English & other.

CLIMATE

Curaçao has a warm, sunny climate yearround, with an average temperature of about 27°C (in the mid-80°s F).

ELECTRICITY

110-130 volts AC (50 cycles)

DRNKING WATER

Curaçao utilizes the reverse osmosis process to ensure that the water is clean and safe to drink.. Imported bottled water is also available.

MEDICAL FACILITIES & PHARMACIES

Curacao Medical Center: www.cmc.cw

Over the counter medicine is found at the local pharmacy “Botika”. Most are open all day until 6:30pm or later. After hours drugstores www.facebook.com/Boticawarda

EMERGENCY TEL. NUMBERS

Inter-Island & International Operator: 021

Tourist Emergency Number (24 hours): 917

Ambulance : 912

Fire Department: 911

Police Department: 911

Coast Guard: 913

SOS Line: 127

CURRENCY

The local currency is the Antillean Guilder. US Dollar is widely accepted.

Exchange Rates as of 2024-01-01

1.00 USD = 1.79 ANG

BANKS

Monday to Friday, from 8:00am to 3:30pm.

Maduro & Curiel’s Bank: 466-1111

RBC Bank: +599 763-8660

Giro Bank: +599 433-9999

ATMs, access to cash withdrawals using VISA, MasterCard, American Express or any card with a Cirrus, Maestro, Cashnet, PIN or Plus logo.

CAR RENTALS

Budget Rent-a-Car: 5999-868-3466

National Car Rental: 5999- 869-4433

Hertz Car Rental: 5999-888-0088

TAXI SERVICE

Airport: +599 868-1220

Central: +599 869-0747

TOURIST INFORMATION

Curaçao Tourist Board: www.curaçao.com

Curaçao Hospitality & Tourism Association: www.chata.org

CONSULATES

Canadian: +599 9 560-9936

US: +599 9 461-3066

SHOPPING HOURS

Stores are open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 6pm. Some stores say open until 8pm and occasionally are open on Sunday. Some stores close from 12:00 noon-2:30pm

Drink tap water, it's clean & clear!

Keeping

Curaçao Clean.

It’s so important to help keep Curaçao clean. Please be mindful and always throw your trash in a trash can. There are plenty of known facts about plastics and waste and its efects on nature.

A noteworthy recycling and cleaning project, Curaçao Cleanup operating since 2011, gathers thousands of locals, visitors and sponsors who volunteer and support the clean up operation on the island. Many organizations and companies proudly join this great initiative to help raise awareness and tackle waste disposal. Everyone can contribute to take care of the environment and dispose of waste properly to keep the land and sea clean! Education is key to such an endeavor increasing the life of a clean, healthy natural environment versus the consequences of dumped waste. With a population of 150 000 people on this island, the positive impact of everyone contributing to the clean up is far greater then the contrary and defnitely rewarding for all! www.curacaocleanup.com

curaçao events

DOWNLOAD THE EC APP TO PLAN

Y r Dream Vacati !

THE ROAD to get nd {Island Map}

THE WARMTH of the pe le {Meet a Local}

THE RYTHM of C açao {Local Music}

THE SPIRIT of the island {Events}