Overview of Curacao
Curacao is ideally located approximately 800 miles north of the equator yet far enough south to be out of the hurricane path further north. This position affords Curacao an abundance of sunshine year round. So much so that much of the interior of the island is reminiscent of a desert landscape complete with cacti. But where land meets ocean is where Curacao comes into its own. White sand, crystal waters, renowned diving and attractive architecture make for a winning vacation destination. And, while the average temperature is about 82 degrees year round, constant trade winds do a good job of keeping things cool.
At 35 miles long and only a few miles wide Curacao is home to around 170,000 residents comprised of a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds. As such, Curacaoans are multi-lingual and comfortable with not only Dutch but English and Spanish as well. Willemstad, the capital and only major city, brings to mind a bit of Amsterdam with its narrow buildings all painted in an array of pastel colors. But, lest it seem too quaint, Willemstad is also home to many of the islands casinos and top resorts. Willemstad is divided into two sections by bridges, Punda and Otrobanda. Punda is more activity oriented with shopping, restaurants and bars to offer a break from the beach and diving activities commonly popular.
Activities on Curacao seem to naturally orient towards the water. Divers will be thrilled with Curacao’s underwater offerings from the national Underwater Park to Klein Curacao, an uninhabited island off the eastern coast. Those preferring deep sea fishing will also find Curacao to their liking with marlin, sailfish, wahoo and tuna in abundance. More onshore activities range from trying one’s luck in the casinos to exploring the wildlife preserve at Christoffel Park or simply reclining onto one of the many beautiful sandy beaches.
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