Curacao
Marriott Beach Resort
The Dutch have left their lasting mark on Curaçao in many areas, but perhaps none as striking as the
architecture. Nowhere else in the world outside of the Netherlands are there so many exquisite 17th
and 18th Century Dutch colonial buildings. Early settlers brought with them all their traditions,
including their architecture and their notion of what made a proper home. In time, styles were
modified to fit the realities of a dry and breezy climate by incorporating Caribbean influences
such as verandas, porches, fretwork and shutters -- and by adopting a palette of Caribbean
colors undreamed of in Amsterdam.
Curaçao is the perfect island to recharge your spirit. This hilly volcanic island is a picturesque
place where honeymoons are laid-back and easy. A sunny haven blessed with gentle trade winds and
cool waters, Curaçao has an interesting terrain; its dessert countryside is full of cactus, while the
north coast is outlined with rocky coves, cliffs, inlets and small bays.
Curaçao just 35 miles north of Venezuela, is the largest of the Netherlands Antilles. The Dutch
architecture and pastel painted town homes on the waterfront of this honeymoon island reminds
many couples of Amsterdam. The unique combination of Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, English,
African and Indian culture reflect the people of Curaçao today. Willemstad, the capital, is divided
by a deep-water harbor. The two sides of the city are connected by Queen Emma Pontoon bridge.
This floating pontoon bridge, which is only open to pedestrians, makes walking these narrow
historic streets enjoyable.
Punda is the shopping district, a compact 5 block square area. Stores offer an array of merchandise
at reasonable prices. Prices here are low because there is a very low import duty and no sales tax.
Cameras, electronics, video equipment, jewelry, watches, perfume, china, crystal and linens are
among the items for sale at bargain rates. Other island sights are Hato Caves, Christoffel National Park,
A Seaquarium, a Floating market where you can buy fresh seafood, spices and local fruit and
Casino Gambling .
One of the best things about Curaçao is the selection of Indonesian restaurants. Perhaps the most diverse
of all the islands, Curaçao has so many international restaurants, it is difficult to decided which one to
try, and the prices are less than most islands. Curaçao has some of the most pristine beaches on the
globe. This is a water-sports mecca. Swimming, windsurfing, sailing, water-skiing, deep-sea fishing,
snorkeling and scuba diving...if you want to do it, it is there for you in Curaçao.
If you want to know more about Curaçao please see the official web site to
the department of tourism for Curaçao at http://www.curacao-tourism.com.
