PAID CONTENT FOR CURAÇAO TOURIST BOARD
PAID CONTENT FOR GRAND CURAÇAO TOURIST BOARD
Curaçao Tourist Board CURAÇAO
Bursting with European-Caribbean culture, azure-blue bays and vibrant, pastel-coloured historic buildings, there’s no better place in which to unwind than Curaçao. Comprising 55 nationalities, Curaçao is a
melting pot overflowing with unique customs and traditions that shape the island. While diverse, the majority of the 160,000 inhabitants embody a rich Caribbean heritage. The official languages of Curaçao are
Papiamentu, Dutch and English. Papiamentu is the most widely spoken language and emerged from a blend of African, Spanish, Dutch, French, Portuguese, English and Arawak influences. Unlike other Creole languages, Papiamentu is spoken across all levels of society. In general, visitors can easily get by in English. One of the deeper musical influences on the
island is Tambú, or Curaçao blues. Instruments are simple, common implements like the tambú (drum), kachu (cow horn), agan (a piece of metal or ploughshare), and chapi (hoe). The music is accompanied by hand clapping, usually
by women, dancing with asymmetrical body movements and hip rotation. The island’s culinary offering is as diverse as
it is delicious. Whether you’re dining out or just grabbing something on the go at a food truck, your taste buds are bound for a whirlwind adventure. The influence of Spanish rulers, Dutch merchants, Venezuelan and Indian contract workers, and Portuguese Jews have all left their mark on the island’s culinary heritage. The true highlight of the rich local cuisine are the delicious stews, like karni stobá (beef) or kabritu stobá (goat). Curaçao’s iconic rainbow-coloured buildings
offer a taste of the island’s artistic vibe. Local art drapes every corner, especially in Willemstad, from life-sized murals and sculptures to galleries, exhibitions and museums. Otrobanda, one of the most artistic districts in the capital, offers a guided walking tour to discover the work of some of the island’s most popular artists. Over the past few years, community-building projects, street parties and street art have revitalised the neighbourhood, especially the Ser’i Otrobanda area.
Don’t miss Make sure to visit the Plasa Bieu food market, in the centre of Willemstad, for the best local meals
62 This content is brought to you by our sponsor. It does not necessarily reflect the views of the National Geographic or its editorial staff. Need to know
KEY FACTS • 30C average temperature • Safe drinking water • Willemstad UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Large range of accommodations • Culinary variety • Over 70 dive sites
Get in touch
curacao.com
T: +(5999) 461 8200 E:
info@curacao.com
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