Thinking about a vacation in the Caribbean and want something different? Consider Curaçao, an island not many know about. It’s got a special mix of old Dutch style and lovely tropical scenery. While lots of people go to St. Martin, Curaçao is a secret spot that gives you a fresh adventure while still being fun and thrilling like other Caribbean places.
Table of Contents
Curaçao is a tiny island in the southern Caribbean. It has a long history from the 1600s and many different people, like the Dutch, Spanish, and Africans, have shaped it. You can see this mix in the buildings, food, and customs there. It’s a great place for visitors who like to see and learn about different ways of life.
Why Choose Curaçao Over St. Martin?
Why pick Curacao instead of St. Martin? Curacao isn’t as busy or built up as St. Martin, so your holiday will be calmer and more restful. Curaçao also gives you a real feel of its culture and history, which it works hard to keep alive.
Plus, Curaçao can be cheaper. It has places to stay, food, and things to do that cost less than St. Martin, so it’s good for those who don’t want to spend a lot.
How to Get to Curaçao
To travel from St. Martin to Curaçao, the most common way is by plane. Here’s a quick guide:
- How Long It Takes: About 1 hour and 50 minutes.
- Who Flies There: Airlines such as FlexFlight ApS and Winair.
- How Often: There are flights two times a day.
- How Much It Costs: The price for a ticket is usually between $210 and $1,100.
Must-See Attractions in Curaçao
So, what are some of the must-see attractions in Curaçao? Here are a few highlights:
- Christoffel National Park: A big park with the tallest mountain on the island, Mount Christoffel. It has great views and lots of plants and animals, like the Curaçao iguana.
- Willemstad: The main city of Curaçao. It’s full of colorful old buildings, busy shopping places, and fun things to do at night. Don’t miss the floating market where people sell fruits and fish from their boats.
- Boca Tabla: A beautiful beach with very clear water and soft white sand. It’s a nice place to chill out, get some sun, or go snorkeling or kayaking.
- Curaçao Liqueur Distillery: The island is known for its special drink made from orange peels. You can visit the place where they make it to see how it’s done and try different kinds.
Tips for Visiting Curaçao
Before you head to Curaçao, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Language: Dutch is the main language, but many people also speak English, Spanish, and Papiamento. It’s nice to know some Dutch words to be polite.
- Money: They use the Antillean guilder, but you can also use US dollars.
- Weather: It’s usually warm in Curaçao, with temperatures between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C). Wear light clothes and don’t forget sunscreen.
- Staying Safe: Take care of your things and try not to be out alone at night, just like you would anywhere else.
Vegetarian Food Options in Curaçao
In Curaçao, if you’re a vegetarian, you’ll find more and more places to eat that have vegetarian food. Some good places for vegetarians are Mundo Bizarro, Plein, and Mundo Milo. They have many tasty dishes without meat for you to enjoy.
St. Martin is famous, but Curaçao is quieter and feels more genuine. Curaçao is a special island in the Caribbean that’s perfect for travelers. It’s not packed with people, there’s a lot to do, and it has a mix of different cultures. Not many people have discovered Curaçao yet. If you’re looking for a peaceful beach vacation, consider Curaçao for your next trip.