Curacao-Vibrant Island Country

Curacao, with its capital at Willemstad, is an island nation on the southern side of the Caribbean Sea off the West Coast of Venezuela. It is the part of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao) of the Netherlands Antilles, a self-governing part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Curacao is the largest and the most populated of the ABC Islands with a land area of 444 sq km.

eventsTraditionally, the Carnival began as the religious practice of the Catholics called ‘Carne Levale’ meaning ‘Abstinence from Meat for Lent’ in Curacao. The practice continued in the island even in the 19th century when the people organized the masquerade parties and marches in the private clubs. But the Curacao Carnival gained popularity only after 1969. It has now become one of the largest and longest carnival spectacles in the Caribbean Islands, beginning in early January and concluding by end of February and sometimes extending to even March. The eight weeks of festivity this year will begin in January 2007 at Willemstad.

Calendar of events-Curacao

Curaçao has a full calendar of festivities that delight local residents as well as visitors. Major holidays, such as Carnival and Christmas, spread a decidedly festive atmosphere over the entire Island. Banks and other businesses are decked out with streamers, balloons and other decorations befitting the occasion.

History of Curacao

Curacao is a large protected natural port that was mapped before 16th century and in due course became a prominent hub of commercial activities. This island is the place of origin of Papiamentu, the language of the ABC Islands spoken as far as the Netherlands Antilles Islands of St. Eustatius, Saba and St. Maarten.

Flora and Fauna of Curacao

Curacao is a sub-tropical & semi-arid island in Netherlands Antilles & does not support much of greenery and animal life. The flora and fauna found in Curacao can survive these weather conditions.



Culture of Curacao

Although Curacao is the member of the Netherlands Antilles and has governmental ties with the Kingdom of the Netherlands, yet the 130,000 people of the island are more attached to African and Caribbean region culturally through language, music and dance.

Cuisine of Curacao

The population of Curacao comprises of more than 50 nationalities. Therefore, the cuisine of this island is bound to have such a vast diversity in its food. The immigrants to Curacao have brought with them their own culinary styles that have been incorporated into Curacao’s cuisine and have got the local flavor with the passage of time.

Forts in Curacao

Curaçao has a full calendar of festivities that delight local residents as well as visitors. Major holidays, such as Carnival and Christmas, spread a decidedly festive atmosphere over the entire Island. Banks and other businesses are decked out with streamers, balloons and other decorations befitting the occasion.



Museums in Curacao

Curacao is rich in history and culture. There are numerous museums that tell the history and lore of the lovely island. Museums housed in ancient buildings display interesting artifacts that reflect Curacao's culture & history. Here is a list of some of the museums in Curacao

Attractions in Curacao

The island of Curacao is dotted with intriguing caves, 18th century forts and monuments which are interesting architectural showpieces as well as popular tourist attractions. Also you may come across on your travels, centuries old stalagmites and stalactites that are still in a state of evolution.



Beaches in Curacao

The long and beautiful coastline of Curacao is lined with nearly 30 public and private beaches. The beaches range from the intimate rocky coves to long stretches of lively beaches. The sheltered southwestern coast with calm and crystal clear waters features almost all the swimming beaches of the island.

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