The Curacao Guide is your comprehensive vacation guide to one of the most unique islands in the Caribbean. Let us help you find everything you'll need to know, from the multicultural history of Curacao to the breathtaking scenery you'll encounter while there.
Before you can begin enjoying the natural beauty and abundant sunshine of Curacao, you'll need to take the time to plan your vacation. Here you'll find tips on everything from gathering information and making important travel decisions to budgeting and booking your ideal getaway...
Some people are limited in when they can go to Curacao by work and school vacations, but if you have the luxury of planning when you can travel to the island, there are many options...
The high season in Curacao is also the rainy season. Make sure to pack a rain jacket or umbrella, and even rain boots if it is possible for you to do so...
Accommodation options in Curacao range from down-home simplicity to all-out extravagance. Rental properties are one option for vacationers who would like to immerse themselves in local culture, but for those travelers looking to escape from it all, All-Inclusive resorts provide yet another option. Nature enthusiasts may be eager to learn about Camping and Eco-Tourism on the island, while hotels and resorts are designed to suit the needs of more traditional visitors...
The local culinary style of Curacao reflects its diverse culture and international heritage. With Dutch, Creole, and Indonesian influences, typical local dishes are made with fish, cheeses, and spicy sauces. Along with this unique local fare, travelers can enjoy locally distilled liqueurs made from the bitter Lahara orange...
Whether you have a taste for Chinese, American, Italian, or authentic Curacaon dishes, expensive and casual variations can be enjoyed during your vacation on Curacao. Aside from the type of food that is served, proper attire and reservations are a couple of other issues warranting consideration when choosing a restaurant. For everything you need to know, consult our comprehensive restaurant guide, which is organized alphabetically, as well as by cuisine...
What was once a trading post is now a hot travel destination. As home to 45 different ethnic groups, Curacao is a diverse land with an exciting and varied history. European explorers initially passed over the island as it wasn't rich in natural resources. But as time went on, it developed into the perfect location for commerce and trade. As such, it now enjoys a fruitful tourism industry with a vibrant and lively culture. Read more about Curaco's culture, economy and history...
The first inhabitants of Curacao were the Arawak people, who came to the island from South America in 2500 B.C. The particular group of Arawaks that settled in Curacao were called the Caiquetios...
Since oil was discovered off the coast of Venezuela in 1920, Curacao's economy has depended upon petroleum, as well as tourism and the banking industry...
Though crime is not typically a huge issue in Curacao, there are certain measures that vacationers can take to ensure that they don't become a statistic...
There are three basic options for reaching the island. Choose from mainstream favorites like commercial air travel and cruises, or strike arrive in a chartered sailing vessel, if you're feeling more adventurous...
Year-round warmth and bright sunshine typify the weather conditions on Curacao. With an average temperature of 81 degrees Fahrenheit which is made even more pleasant by constant trade winds, visitors will find this island to be the perfect tropical get away, especially since it is located away from the path traveled by most hurricanes. Our detailed weather guide will provide you with specific, month-by-month information, making it easy to plan ahead...
| January | May | September |
| February | June | October |
| March | July | November |
| April | August |
December |
Regardless of whether you're just going around the corner or crossing the entire island, quality transportation services mean that getting from place to place in Curacao is both easy and enjoyable. Find out about taxis, buses, rental cars and more...
You can be sure that it's a taxi cab you are hailing by taking a quick look at the license plate, which will be marked with a "TX." Note that any time you try and travel in a taxi with more than four passengers, a 25 percent fee will be added to your total bill...
Public transportation in Curacao is a quick and easy method of getting around. Buses here are yellow and blue, and the license plates are marked with the word "BUS"...
There is a free ferry service in Curacao that takes travelers into the main shopping area and capitol city of Willemstad...
Things in Curacao probably run a little different than you are used to back home. Take a few moments to learn about island etiquette, currency, clothing and attire, health and medical information, and more...
The Netherland Antilles Guilder is the official form of currency in Curacao, but the United States Dollar is widely accepted. Many businesses also accept major credit cards and traveler's cheques...
Before going on a shopping spree in Curacao make sure you are aware of the customs policies of both your home country and Curacao...
| Driving | Passports |
| Electricity | Postal Services |
| Embassies | Telephones |
| Health and Medical | Time Zones |
| Hours of Operation | Tipping |
| Languages | Tourist Offices |
Though the main draw to Curacao is the beaches, there are plenty of other attractions for visitors to explore. Marine parks allow vacationers to experience ocean life, museums allow tourists to step back in time, and there are numerous casinos for gamers to enjoy...
There are 38 beaches that dot the coastline of Curacao. These sandy wonderlands are usually quite crowded on the weekends, but if you can make it to the beaches on the weekday, you may just find that you are there alone...
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