Curacao, the Dutch Caribbean
It’s official: My flight to Curaçao is booked and I’m heading there for the first time from November 25th-30th (Thanksgiving weekend)! I am thrilled. While I grew up in the Enchanted Island of Puerto Rico, the Caribbean never gets old. There is something about its palm-fringed coasts, ocean breeze, sand between my toes, and year-long sunshine that I just can never get enough! Most of my excitement, however, stems from the fact that Curaçao is so culturally diverse from the Caribbean I’m “used” to.
Located in the deep south of the Caribbean, Curacao is about 60 km off Venezuelan coasts. For this reason, it is considered a “transcontinental country,” meaning that it is part of both North and South America, as the division of Caribbean islands between the two continents is deemed complex. In addition to its ambiguous geographical location, its cultural background is just as broad. While the first conquistadors to see the island were Spaniards, the territory was invaded by the Dutch in 1634. Then, 28 years later, Curacao became the center of the Atlantic slave trade, bringing a heavy influx of African slaves into the island. From there, they were shipped to several colonies in the Caribbean and South America.
The island became prosperous, and since the Dutch made a contract with the Spaniards for slave trade, the island’s development and architecture was influenced by a mix of both Spanish and Dutch styles. Naturally, as with many Caribbean islands, Curacao’s strategic location and wealth caught the eye of other colonial powers. Consequently, Curacao was occupied by the French, the British, and the Dutch interchangeably between the 18th and 19th centuries. Then, in 1815 (post-Napoleonic wars), the Dutch regained control of the island.
It is easy to see why I am so excited about visiting this culturally-rich haven. Not only is it off-the-beaten path in comparison to other popular Caribbean destinations, but its background is quite unique. While my island of Puerto Rico has Taíno, African, and Spanish influences, the Spaniards successfully retained control of the island for more than 400 years, ever since its discovery by Columbus on November 19th, 1493. In fact, it was not until the Spanish-American War that Spain lost the island to American forces. In contrast, Curacao was occupied and juggled between colonial powers repeatedly for about two centuries, which makes its background that more diverse in my opinion. It will be wonderful see for myself and discover whether this assumption of mine is true or if the cultural background is as equally diverse, and not more, than Puerto Rico’s.
According to the government’s website, Curacao’s unique society has seen interactions between the Indian, European, African, Asian, and Arab cultures. I wonder how that will translate into its architecture, food, customs, etc. I plan on Couchsurfing there, just so I get to see the country from a local’s perspective and am able to ask several questions about traditions and current influences and changes.
I’m still not sure what I will do there. A friend of mine, named Jessica, might join me, but seems like I will be going as a solo woman traveler again *smiles* I think I’ll want to cycle around the island, given the fact that it is only 61 km long by 5-14 km wide, plus I will have about 5-6 days to explore (yay). Additionally, I plan on doing some diving and snorkeling, as I have heard Curacao boasts some of the most virgin, vibrant corals in the whole Caribbean. Moreover, it was considered one of the top budget diving destinations in the world–say whaaaat!? Guys, I’m so excited about this trip! By the way, I found my flight from Miami-Curacao for only $215 RT including taxes on a special sale from American Airlines, which ends on July 18th (in four days!). They have tons of cities on sale so you might want to check it out. Oh and hey, if you decide to visit the magical Dutch Caribbean after snatching a cheap flight, let me know! *wink*
Have you visited Curacao or any other Caribbean island? Tell us about your experience
Cas Abou beach is a fab spot. Its secluded and was a sweet spot for one of my friends wedding ceremonies. She’s from Curacao and lives in the Netherlands and went back to the isle to get hitched.
You definitely have to go to the open air market in Willemstad; fresh meats, music, paintings, herbs (legal kind), all kinds of stuff. Also there’s a spot where you can try some Iguana. I never tasted it as they closed at an odd time and never found the spot either but I hear its pretty good if you like reptile meat (not to be insensitive to those who love iguanas). You MUST MUST try the small store front in downtown (Punda I believe) where they sell “The Best Mojito in The World.” Just ask around. The mojito was dope but I’m not sure if it was the best I’ve ever had. The shop is full of rum and other Blue Curacao liqueurs.
Yes, diving and snorkeling was very popular. I tried to dive but my head felt like it was going to burst, but I will give it another try in the future. You must go dancing. They salsa and meringue etc. Try Mambo beach (although u have to pay to get in) but its next to an aquarium and Breezes resort (where I stayed).
I plan to go back again. The people are pleasant and I know a few people there now!
If you don’t do anything else you HAVE to go to (what I call) the Garden of Eden: Dina Hveeris (or try a youtube video). My friends cousin owns the garden. Its full of natural medicinal herb & plant remedies for the body. Ms. Dinah kept the recipes and traditions of the islands – African Slaves – and shares/teaches visitors through how she set up the garden. You may get to see Aloe plants as tall as you are.
I love seeing goats in the road too! I hope to visit all the ABC Isles: Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao again and again.
Okay, I’ll shut up now. lol HAVE FUN!!!!
P.S. (Go the Curacao Blue Factory and tell us all about it!)
I have a video of my ride into the interior of the island on my blog. Its not as lush as some islands but just as pleasant. I could go on & on.
Peace.
Samuel and Nancie: I KNOW!! I saw that pic and wished I had a time machine so it’s November already! Can’t wait to go and still can’t believe I found such a good deal on the flight (which would usually cost around $400-500)!!!
I love that photo. It looks like a painting. Sounds like a lovely destination.
The photo you’ve posted makes me want to travel there right NOW 🙂 Btw, that’s an excellent deal on your flight!!!
I hope you are convinced by now Jade! 😉 as you know, I’m heading to Curacao in November, so you are more than welcome to join me!
Gorgeous photo at the top! I’ve always wanted to travel to Central and South America and this is making that desire even stronger!
I went to Curacao in April and loved it! We stayed at the Kura Hulanda Hotel – amazing! The museum and the art at this Willemstad resort was amazing and the restaurants fantastic! Also enjoyed Cas Abou – nice beach! Right up there with St. Lucia and Puerto Rico (yes I love Old San Juan) – Curacao is the best!
Ragazza: American Airline’s sale is still going on so you could snatch a flight like I did! You got until July 18th for the good fares 😉 Unsure whether you will be in the U.S in order to take advantage of the sale but just wanted to let you know 😀
I can’t wait to read about your trip. My dad grew up in Curacao (was born in St. Martin). He can still speak Papimento.
It’s one of the islands I would love to visit.
Thanks for the great tip Marc! I’ll sure check out Plaza Bieu when I visit 😀
Absolute must: lunch from Plaza Bieu in Willemstad (Punda side, close to the market). Amazing local food, very cheap. 🙂