CuracaoDutch and Caribbean at the Same TimeCuracao is one of five Dutch Antilles. Together with Bonaire it is located near the Venezuelan coast. The other three, St Maarten, Saba Island and Statia are on the northeastern extreme of the Caribbean. Here the Dutch influence is at its peak. You can feel it everywhere you look, from the buildings that make you think you are in Amsterdam, to the language and the accent of the locals.many reason for Great Curacao Tourism Click here to Share your Story
Colorful houses in Willemstad, in Curacao Dutch Antilles
Blend of European flair with a Tropical flavor The blend of European flair and tropical lifestyle makes this beautiful island a unique place to visit. The tourists come here for the beautiful beaches, the the colorful coral reefs, the Cuisine and the culture. Any of the locals speak three to four languages easily: Dutch, English, Spanish and Papiamentu. The capital Willemstad The capital and center of culture is the port of Willemstad, a bustling city which is divided in two different sections Punda and Otrobanda. The two parts are united by the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge built over the St Annabaal canal. Punda’s Waterfront has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The architecture is proudly Dutch with colorful houses that have been restored many times since originally built in the 1600s. Punda is a busy pedestrian friendly downtown with narrow streets and many Duty-Free shops and boutiques as well as terrace cafes, a people watching experience for anyone to enjoy. Otrobanda, which literally means “The other side”, is tropically relaxed, with modern roads and great beaches. It is home to the famous Five Star Hotel Kura Hulanda sitting on eight square blocks of the original colonial city. It is a living museum besides offering all amenities, like spa and casino.
The pool at the Hilton and its exotic beaches
Curacao Travel offers a world of undersea marvels Something sometimes overlooked is that this island offers a wealth of undersea treasures. As a matter of fact about one third of the waters surrounding the island are protected by law against potentially harmful actions by locals and visitors alike. A site called Superior Producer, one of the island’s most popular spots, hosts an ecosystem with coral reefs, grouper and barracuda. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving The tiny isle of Klein Curacao is according to divers the best spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. It is located an hour and a half boat ride from the mainland. Also across the waters of Sunset Waters Resort is “Airplane Wreck”, a site where divers can see the remains of an aircraft resting there. National Parks Christoffel National park is an exhilarating and unique place great for hiking and horseback riding. Once you reach the top, you’ll be able to see the mountain peaks of neighboring Venezuela.
This Synagogue is the oldest in the Western Hemisphere
Oldest Synagogue in the Western Hemisphere The Mikvé Israel-Emanuel, in Willemstad, is the oldest synagogue in the Americas. It is commonly known as the Snoa (short for esnoga, an Old Portuguese word for synagogue). The community (congregation Mikvé Israel) dates from the 1650s, and consisted of Spanish and Portuguese Jews from the Netherlands and Brazil. In the nineteenth century there was a breakaway Reform community, Emanuel; the two merged to form the present community in 1964. The community is now affiliated to Reconstructionist Judaism. The first synagogue building was purchased in 1674; the current building dates from 1730.
The pool area at the Marriott Beach Resort & Emerald Casino
Recommended hotels and resorts The following hotels are very recommended for a relaxed and enjoyable stay. Please click on the links for more information. Avila creates an atmosphere for its guests. It is a house, a home, your favorite bar, your first choice for dinner, your beach, your escape and a great friend. Breathtaking Coral Cliffs surrounded by a sugary white sand beach created the ideal setting this newest luxury resort, Lodge Kura Hulanda and Beach Club. Located only 30 minutes from the international airport, the new beachfront haven offers spacious villas, suites and guestrooms, all elegantly appointed. Marriott Beach Resort & Emerald Casino Considered one of the top the island's hotels, the Marriott Beach Resort & Emerald Casino captures the best of old-Amsterdam charm and sun-drenched warmth. This exclusive Curacao hotel is located on Piscadera Bay in Willemstad. With 6 oceanfront acres, the Marriott Resort offers relaxed views and lush tropical gardens. The beautiful beachfront Hilton is just four miles from the capital city of Willemstad. Located at the Piscadera Bay, the resort boasts two private white sand beaches and beautifully landscaped grounds. A visit to Curacao is a most if you want to know the real spirit of the Caribbean with its tropical beaches and the European Heritage. We have been to Curacao many times and enjoyed each one of our visits very much.
The Kura Hulanda Hotel is a renowned landmark on the island
Among the Best Caribbean Resorts
Image Credits: All courtesy of Wikimedia Commons The resorts images are courtesy of the resorts mentioned.  Custom Search From Curacao go to Dutch Antilles
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