- Posted: 16 March, 2018
- Category: Beach, North America
Curaçao
Curacao, the dutch colonial island was oh-so-beautiful! I expected it to be nice, but I did not expect to like it this much! Willemstad, Curacao’s town is a World Heritage Site with its colorful buildings! It is interesting how you could see the evidence of Spanish, Portuguese, English and French influences on the island blending with the Caribbean elements.
- Visa for Curacao: Schengen or US (both were accepted)
- Dutch is the official language but Papiamentu is spoken by nearly everyone. English and Spanish are also widely used.
- Currency: US Dollars or Antillean guilders.
Recommended Resorts/Hotels:
Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort
Baoase Luxury resort
Livingstone Jan Thiel
Beaches and Hot Spots:
Most stores in Curacao open from 9 AM to 6 PM!
- MAMBO BEACH (BEACH. DINE. SHOP.)
- Playa Kalki – White sands set against beautiful hills, limestone cliffs and green uncrowded environment. Its located on the Northwest Coast and is ideal for snorkelers, divers and sunbathers. Theres a snack bar and dive shop there
- Groot Knip (Playa Kenepa) – known to be a great spot for its spectacular sunset views! Located on the West Coats, and is ideal for Divers, families and Sunbathers!
- Klein Knip – A stretch of white sand beach (small, but beautifu!) There are no facilities on the island so it is a good idea to join a tour that arranges everything for you while taking you of course by boat.
- Playa Jeremi – Secluded cove, recommended to visit late in the day to watch sunset. It is surrounded by lush mangrove forests. Is it located in the West Coast and is ideal for swimming, snorkeling and sunbathing.
- Cas Abao – offers white sands, crystal clear waters, swaying palms, shady parasols and tropical reefs.A range of water sports is also available. Located in the Southwest Coast.
- Jan Thiel Beach – Loved loved this place a lot! Located in a residential upscale area, a very safe European style beach. Its located on the South Coast, has cafe, restaurants, shops, watersport and chairs.
- Playa PortoMari – A busy tourist beach for relaxing, snorkeling, and fun in the sun with family or with friends. (toilets and showers available)
- St Michiel Baai (Boca Sami) – Set in a charming area with restaurants and shops, the beach borders a local marina sheltering small fishing boats. Around the beach you can also find climbing trails for some exploring in the nearby hills.
- Blue Bay Beach – Curacao largest beach, popular for local families and visitors.Its well set for Kayaking, diving, or just relaxing with tropical drinks.
Things to do around the island:
- Explore the downtown area by foot (get your cameras ready!)
- There’s a fort overlooking the water which my friend took me too, I can’t recall the name but if you ask around they’ll tell you
- rent a car a go discover the island
- water activities, day trips via boat is available everywhere
- Curacao sea aquarium
- Biking aroundIf you are going to drive in Curacao, US and International Driving License are valid.
If you’re going diving:
Dining in Curacao:
We had a meal at our hotel which was super cute, and another one in MAMBO beach which has plenty of restaurants.
if you want to try out the authentic cuisine, check out the Playa Bieu (Old Market) in Willemstad to try some Stobas (stews) and sopas (soups) that make up a typical Curacaoan meal. The stews are usually made from goat, chicken , or beef, and served with side of fun chi (cornmeal polenta) and tutu (black-eyed peas and cornmeal) and fired plantains.
you could also try dining at Santa Barbara for a romantic night or a family dining experience. La Bahia Seafood & Steakhouse. Koko’s for breakfast/brunch or Coffee. Blues Bar and Restaurant. Belle Terrace Restaurant.
I also tried and liked: Bijblauw, Wandu Cafe, and an Italian cozy place right next to Wandu, called IL BARILE DE MARIO.
EMERGENCY NUMBERS:
Ambulance 912
Hospital 910
Police 911
SOS line 127
Tourist Emergency Line 917
Finally, a special thank you to my friends Marguerite Kiwan for introducing me to Curacao in the first place, and for David Hof for taking us around the island!!! Thanks guys 🙂