Why Not Go to Curaçao

It is believed that the name Curacao is derived from similar words from several different languages meaning either “cured” or “healing.” A trip to Curacao can indeed be a healing experience for those caught up in the overwhelmingly fast pace of everyday life. Curacao is small and secluded, allowing even the most harried vacationer the opportunity to leave their troubles behind them, and relax in a world free of crowds and full of soul.

Still a quiet, relaxing getaway, in recent years Curacao has begun to appear more often on the radar of travelers who frequent the Caribbean.  In fact, in the beginning of 2011, Curacao was named as one of the top destinations in the world by not one, but two travel news Web sites: AOL Travel and SmarterTravel .  Curacao came in at number seven on AOL Travel's Hottest Destinations for 2011 list, and is listed as one of the seven Destinations to Watch by SmarterTravel.  If this is any indication of things to come for Curacao, one can only imagine that tourism will continue to steadily grow on the island, providing visitors with more ammenities and attractions as the years go by. 

Geography and Weather

Curacao is located about 35 miles off the northern coast of Venezuela, and is considered to be both a part of South America and the Leeward Antilles. The island has a total area of 171.4 square miles, with Mt. Christoffel providing the tallest peak at 1230 feet above sea level. The island's topography consists of hilly countryside to the west, and flat lands to the west. There are no freshwater lakes or rivers, but the island is surrounded by lagoons and bays.

Curacao has a semi-arid climate, which means it experiences low levels of precipitation for its area throughout the year. Indeed, Curacao only averages approximately 22 inches of rain annually, and this occurs mostly between October and February. Typically, temperatures remain constant, with an average of 81 degrees Fahrenheit, made even more pleasant by cooling trade winds.

Around the Island

There are 38 beaches along the coastline of Curacao, some with gentle surf and soft sand, and others that pound against rocky cliffs. Many of Curacao's beaches are small and secluded, allowing visitors to feel as if they have discovered their own personal slice of paradise. Water sports are popular in Curacao, including snorkeling and diving. Marine parks on the island are a great way to learn about ocean life, and fishing is a popular pastime as well.

Natural attractions in Curacao are simply stunning. A visit to Hato Caves showcases an underground lake surrounded by awe-inspiring stalagmites and stalactites, as well as caves with ancient petroglyphs on the walls. Out in the open, the Christoffel National Park is also home to ancient wall art, as well as 20 miles of trails that bring you through thousands of species of wild plants and animals, and up to the summit of Saint Christoffelberg. Nearby is National Park Shete Boka , the island's resident turtle sanctuary. A truly one-of-a-kind attraction in Curacao is the Curacao Ostrich Farm , where guests can embark on a safari like tour to view one of the largest ostrich breeding ground outside of Africa.

Curacao has a very low import duty, making shopping on the island an incredible bargain. The island allows shoppers the unique experience of browsing the Floating Marke t in Handelskade , where sellers offer their wares (fresh produce, clothing, and crafts) directly off their boats. In the capitol city of Willemstad is Punda, a five-block shopping district where shoppers can find fine garments, perfumes, jewelry, china, and linens for knock-off prices. Speaking of Willemstad, the city is a great place to explore to learn about the history and heritage of Curacao. Willemstad is one of only six UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Caribbean. There are over 750 preserved historic buildings in the city, including the Penha building and the Governor's Palace . Walking and trolley tours are a great way to experience as many of these sites as possible.

Curacao can be an exciting place to visit as well, especially during Carnival season. Carnival is the island's largest and most vibrant event, lasting from the beginning of January to the end of February, and sometimes on into March. Events include parades, concerts, children's activities , art fairs, and more. Another great way to have fun in Curacao is by visiting one of 14 casinos on the island, which can be found in the four cities, mainly at resort hotels .

Eat Up!

Because there are so many nationalities present on the island, and much of it must be imported, food in Curaca o is quite diverse. Visitors should be able to find dishes that they know and love for every meal, but one of the great joys of visiting a foreign country is exploring their normal cuisine . If you are feeling adventurous, stop by a locally owned restaurant , and sample some regional delicacies. Kabritu (stewed goat), Sate (meat kabobs), fried plantains, and yuana (stewed iguana) are a few foods worth sampling.

Who is most likely to enjoy Curacao? Vacationers looking for warm weather, soft sand, bright waters, great shopping opportunities, historic attractions, and friendly people, that's who. Couples looking for a private paradise to get to know each other again without outside influences; families who love to explore and enjoy one another's company; friends ready for a good time, and singles in search of it all. Curacao may be small, but it has a lot to offer everyone who steps ashore.