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Curacao
is the "C" of the ABC islands. What are the ABC
Islands? The ABC islands are comprised of Aruba, Bonaire
and Curacao. These dry arid islands located out of the Hurricane
belt off the coast of Venezuela are associated with the
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Sunset Waters Beach Resort
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Netherlands
and have a significant European feel about them. Curacao and
Bonaire (along with St. Marteen and St. Eustatia) comprise
the Netherlands Antilles while Aruba stands alone in its association
with the Netherlands.
Like the variety of flavors in an ice cream shop, these islands
have something special and different to offer the dive traveler.
Curacao represents the best of Bonaire and the best of Aruba.
Some report that the diving in Curacao rivals Bonaire in quality
of coral, ease of shore diving and variety of fish. Yes, Curacao
has sea horses, frog fish and beautiful yellow cup corals
that brighten up you night dives.
In addition (and unlike Bonaire), Curacao offers some great
night life and beaches. Casinos are available for your night
time pleasure in addition to a great variety of restaurants
and other activities. The main town on the island, Willemstad,
offers fantastic shopping and great photo opportunities.
Curacao
Resorts & Packages
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Curacao
Travel Information and Tips
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Getting
there:
Airlines that fly to Curacao include: Air Jamaica,
Dutch Caribbean and American Airlines. There is regularly
scheduled non stop service from Miami with outstanding
connecting service from Houston, Chicago and the northeast.
Flying time from Miami is 2 ½ - 4 hrs depending
on the connection time.
Getting
Around:
While taxis are available in Curacao, a rental car
will be helpful in getting around and is a necessity
to explore Curacao’s various shore diving locations.
Several resorts offer transportation to the downtown
area.
Language
and Culture:
Dutch is the official language on Curacao, but Papiamento
is the local language. English and Spanish are widely
spoken.
Airport
and Taxes:
The Curacao Airport (Hato) is located 71/2 miles from
the capital, Williamstead. The departure taxes is
approximately $23.00. Taxes are always subject to
change.
Entry
Requirements:
U.S citizens need a return ticket and a passport.
Please call if you have any questions.
Climate:
Average temperature is 80-82 degrees. Annual rainfall
is about 20” Curacao is a dry, windy island. Cactus
and parrots are a common site. Water temperature is
around 80-84 degrees. Curacao, like Bonaire is south
of the Hurricane belt and is therefore a good destination
for late summer/Fall travel.
Currency/Credit
Cards:
The Netherlands Antilles Cuilder or Florin is a fixed
to the US Dollar at $1.00 = 1.77. US dollar’s are
widely accepted, as are credit cards and traveler’s
checks.
Time:
Curacao is on Atlantic Standard Time, which is one
hour ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
Electricity:
110 Volts and 220 A.C.
TIPS:
Curacao is an exciting destination that offers beaches,
nightlife and Casinos along with outstanding boat
and shore diving. Curacao’s Primary town, Willemstad
is rich in Caribbean history. It’s brightly painted
homes and buildings and traditional Dutch architecture
makes Willemstad alone worth the visit to Curacao.
In the diving area, try to get yourself to the famous
Mushroom forest. On land, spend some time at the Kura
Huland museum or out at the harbor entrance watching
the floating bridge open for the ships!
Services
Car
rentals
Budget
599-9-8683466
Avis
599-9-8681163
Marinas
Kima Kalki Marina, (599-9) 767-3014
Seru Boca Marina, (599-9) 767-9042
Sarifundy's Marina, (599-9) 767-7643 |
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