Guest Author - Shannon Hurst Lane

35 miles north of the Venezuelan coast lay an island where the natives speak a Creole language and plantation homes are part of its history. This once popular Caribbean destination is a rediscovered gem. Curacao is its name and the language it speaks is culture.

The official language of Curacao is Dutch, but native Curacaoans also speak Papiamentu, a unique blend of English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and African. In 1997, the island’s only city, Willemstad, was added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites. Located just outside the hurricane belt, this is a perfect tropical destination during hurricane season.

This island is well-known for its religious and ethnic harmony. While 80% of the population is Catholic, there are many other religions on the island. Curacao is home to the oldest continually operating synagogue in the western hemisphere, the Mikve’ Israel-Emanuel Synagogue.

Curacao is a cultural mecca in the Caribbean. It is home to many museums, the most impressive and moving being Museum Kura Hulanda. The name, when translated, means Dutch courtyard. Developed by Dr. Jacob Gelt Dekker, it has historical significance to descendants of African slaves. Dr. Dekker purchased the property in the 1990’s. During remodeling, it was found that Kura Hulanda was the site of many slave auctions. The slaves were trained for one year at landhuases (plantations) in Curacao, before being auctioned off and sent to North America.

Kura Hulanda is the largest collection of African slavery history in the world. While touring the museum, parents have the option to bring younger children to the Kura Hulanda Children’s Center. This center provides interaction between touring children and the children of Curacao.

Other sites of interest are Mount Christoffel, a natural park that offers hiking and driving trails and The Curacao Seaquarium. A visit to Willemstad for shopping is a must. Street vendors sell praline-type candies, the floating market offers cheese and fresh fruit, and the Old Market is a lunch stand where natives sell gumbo and other delicacies.

Curacao has been dubbed “Amsterdam in Technicolor” by some visitors. Downtown Willemstad’s harbor is lined with multicolored homes. Local legend is that a former governor proclaimed that the white paint on all the buildings harsh on the eyes. He declared that each home must be painted a different color. (It is believed that the governor also owned the island’s paint store.)

Lodging

In keeping with this local tradition, Howard Johnson Curacao Plaza Hotel and Casino is best remembered for its façade of bright blues, pinks, greens, and various other colors. www.hojo-curacao.com

The Kura Hulanda Museum also offers romantic lodging for guests. Each room is furnished with antiques and handmade décor made by locals. The grotto pool is a relaxing area to visit with your mate while having an evening cocktail.
www.kurahulanda.com

Breezes Curacao, a SuperClubs resort, is the first of its brand to welcome families. Breezes is an all-inclusive resort that offers children’s activities, a teen club, and a great vacation for adults. As a parent, I was impressed with what was offered for my toddler and for me. We snorkeled, learned how to trapeze in the circus class, and went sailing (all included!).

The rooms are spacious and clean at Breezes as well as the grounds and beaches. There are so many restaurants and bars that we didn’t need to leave the grounds. More information on Breezes Resorts can be found at www.SuperClubs.com.

Although our resort offered an on-site disco, we ventured into town to see what the night life was like. The manager of Breezes recommended “The Living Room”. When we arrived, it was clear to us that it was the place to be on a Friday night. The seating areas inside were couches and Latin music blaring on the dance floor. Even the most prim and proper of our group was living la vida loca.

Transportation

Curacao’s main airport is HATO International Airport in Willemstad. Air Jamaica flies daily from other major hubs with transfers in Montego Bay, also.

www.aa.com
www.airjamaica.com

Documentation

US Citizens need to use a US passport that has at least six valid months left.

Words to Learn before you Go

Bon Dia – Good Day
Bon Bini – Good Evening, also name of Curacao mixed drink
Masha Danki –Thank you
Otrabanda – Other Side, name of the other side of Willemstad

For more information, it is advisable to contact your local travel-agent. Don’t leave the island without a bottle of Curacao Liquor and Droste Chocolates. Happy Travels and masha danki. www.curacao.com