Why Curaçao?
Curacao, a hidden piece of paradise, offers a diverse range of attractions that make it a dream destination for American tourists. From its natural beauty and world-class diving spots to its pristine beaches, hiking trails, cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife, Curacao has something for every traveler.
One of six Dutch Caribbean islands and part of the ABC islands (the others being Aruba and Bonaire), Curaçao is located in the southern Caribbean Sea about 40 miles north of Venezuela. Its capital, Willemstad, became a Dutch colonial trading settlement in the 1630s after the Dutch West India Trading Company invaded the island and forced Spanish colonists to surrender. After the dissolution of the Netherlands Antilles in 2010, Curaçao became an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. As a result, Curaçao’s food, culture and language are the definition of a melting pot.
Most locals speak English, Dutch, Spanish and Papiamentu, which is the native tongue and a Creole amalgamation of those languages plus Portuguese and some African and indigenous languages. So, you won’t have trouble reading most signage, ordering food or chatting with locals while you’re there.