Calming pastels and different vibrant pops of shade all over the place you look, town of Willemstad is inviting, to say the least. This metropolis is the capital of Dutch Caribbean island Curaçao and it’s a kind of locations the place travellers can actually be immersed in a melting pot of tradition and journey.
Earlier than we get into it, let’s discuss a bit of about Curaçao. This Caribbean island is full of life, stunning and a part of the ABC island chain that features Aruba and Bonaire. Curaçao is about 45 miles north of Venezuela and has heavy Dutch influences. Curaçao is known for many things together with its superb seashores, nice diving, nicely preserved historical past as could be seen in its many museums and artwork galleries, and the limitless adventures that may be present in and round Willemstad.
When on the lookout for some of the most amazing things to do in Curaçao you’ll discover it’s a good suggestion to begin by exploring Willemstad. This metropolis is a UNESCO World Heritage Website identified for its Dutch impressed structure, seventeenth and 18th century fortifications, full of life markets, nice purchasing centres, and a lot extra.
In the event you’re planning to journey to Curaçao and don’t know the place to begin, this Willemstad metropolis information will for positive level you in the best course!
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On this article on the Sandals Weblog:
History of Willemstad
Top 10 points of interest in Willemstad
Five best places to dine in Willemstad
Five best places to shop in Willemstad
Top events and festivals in Willemstad
Best time to visit Willemstad
FAQ’s
Historical past of Willemstad
The intense and eclectic historic metropolis middle of Willemstad is made up of 4 quarters, of which Punda and Otrobanda are probably the most well-known. Otrobanda actually interprets to the ‘different facet’ and is joined to Punda by the Queen Emma and Queen Wilhelmina pontoon bridges over Sint Anna Bay.
Willemstad is named after Dutch governor Willem II van Oranje. The town was named after him simply after the island was conquered by the Dutch in 1634. Earlier than then, the island was occupied by Spain, which explains each the Spanish and Dutch influences of this island. The truth is, one in all Curaçao’s core languages, Papiamento, was influenced closely by Dutch, Venezuelan Spanish and Portuguese.
Traditionally, Willemstad has been often known as a hub for the Atlantic slave commerce. In a while town turned identified for petroleum storage and refining, in addition to banking and – in fact – because the a lot liked vacationer hotspot it’s identified at present.
Willemstad is an artsy metropolis, with murals and different types of road artwork throughout. There’s really a regulation which stipulates that the buildings in Handelskade Avenue in Punda specifically, stay pastel coloured and as quaint and beautiful as they’re.
High 10 factors of curiosity in Willemstad
1. Dolphin Academy
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Love dolphins? If sure, chances are high you’ll love ‘the final word dolphin expertise’ at Dolphin Academy in Curaçao. Open since 2002, there are over 20 Coastal Bottlenose dolphins on the Academy that guests can work together with. At Dolphin Academy you’ll be capable to swim with the dolphins in addition to soak up enjoyable reveals and different actions together with Dolphin Snorkel, Dolphin Encounter, Open Water Dolphin Dive, Dolphin Swim, and extra.
2. Queen Emma Bridge
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The ‘Swinging Outdated Woman’, which is the title the Queen Emma Bridge goes by regionally, is a pontoon bridge within the metropolis of Willemstad. It’s exhausting to overlook when on this space particularly when it opens to accommodate passing ships. When the bridge is closed it may be cool to stroll over and admire town from this vantage, and when it’s open, locals and guests can take one in all two free public ferries to get between the Punda and Otrobanda components of city.
3. Mikve Israel Emanuel Synagogue and Jewish Museum
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Curaçao has an fascinating Jewish historical past which could be recounted on the Jewish Cultural-Historic Museum. This museum is a part of the 1651 Mikvé Israel Emanuel Synagogue which dates again to 1651. The museum itself is small however inside you could find a wealth of knowledge and displays together with a centerpiece which is the unique mikveh (bathtub) from a former rabbi’s residence. There’s additionally a Torah scroll on show which is alleged to have been dropped at Curaçao by the primary Jewish settlers.
4. Landhuis Chobolobo
Landhuis Chobolobo famously produces Blue Curaçao liquor from the peel of Valencia oranges discovered on the grounds of this plantation. It’s situated on the jap finish of the Schottegat, and whereas in Curaçao, it’ll be completely attainable to join an interactive and informational tour of this plantation the place you’ll be able to find out about its historical past, the manufacturing strategy of Blue Curaçao, and the way it all started. There’s additionally a present store on the property the place you’ll be capable to purchase your personal bottle of Blue Curaçao to take dwelling.
5. Kura Hulanda Museum
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Inside Museum Kura Hulanda you’ll discover essential tidbits on Curaçao’s historical past together with details about the slave commerce, the tradition of the individuals who had been enslaved, and the abolition of slavery. This museum is arrange in a Nineteenth-century service provider’s home and slave quarters. Guests to Kura Hulanda may try the spectacular assortment of West African artwork and artifacts and consider the sculpture backyard which highlights African influences on the tradition of Caribbean islands like Curaçao.
6. Queen Wilhelmina Bridge
A number of occasions a day the Queen Wilhelmina Bridge in Willemstad Curaçao swings open to accommodate passing ships and this may be fairly the spectacle. Not solely is that this pontoon bridge cool to look at, it will also be enjoyable for strolling and sightseeing when the bridge is down and there aren’t any boats in sight. In the event you do resolve to cross this bridge whereas in Curaçao, undoubtedly cease and take a selfie if time is in your facet!
7. Curaçao Sea Aquarium
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The Curaçao Sea Aquarium is nice if you happen to’re on the lookout for a family-friendly attraction in Curaçao, or simply someplace to spend the day the place you’ll be able to rise up near marine life. You possibly can select to do the Ocean Lens expertise on the Sea Aquarium which will provide you with a glimpse of Curaçao’s sea life whereas letting you keep completely dry, or strive the Sea Lion Encounter which can simply end in you getting the sweetest kiss on the cheek from an lovely sea lion. If you would like one thing a bit extra thrilling you’ll be capable to feed sharks as a part of the Animal Encounter, or simply meet, greet, and feed a few of the different sea life on the aquarium.
8. Mambo Seaside
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Mambo Seaside guarantees plenty of pleasure for vacationers on the lookout for an brisk scene. Nearly any time of day you’ll be able to try the Mambo Seaside Boulevard which incorporates plenty of purchasing choices with the Curaçao Sea Aquarium close by. Mambo Seaside itself has a sprinkling of luxurious seashore golf equipment and eating places which are price testing whereas on this space. Normally it prices round USD$3.50 to get onto Mambo Seaside, however if you happen to go to one of many seashore golf equipment within the Boulevard space you’ll be capable to entry the seashore without spending a dime.
9. Maritime Museum
There are a lot of highlights of the Curaçao Maritime Museum expertise however among the many issues that depart the largest impression is the working mannequin of the Steam for Oil refinery that has been on the middle of the island’s economic system for years. Apart from that there are shows that element components of the island’s historical past bearing on issues just like the Dutch West India Co., the slave commerce, the expansion and development of Willemstad, and extra. There are biweekly labor excursions additionally run by this museum which could be enjoyable, and it’d simply be price it to do a mix tour to get probably the most out of this expertise.
10. Fort Amsterdam
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Inbuilt 1634, Fort Amsterdam can be one of many oldest historic landmarks of this island. There’s a church at this fort that’s nonetheless used for weekly companies and inform story indicators just like the cannonball from a British ship that continues to be embedded within the exterior wall of the church, converse of the unstable conflicts involving Europeans that when took middle stage on this Caribbean isle. Fort Amsterdam additionally homes the Workplace of the Governor Normal of Curaçao.
Additionally learn: 54 Amazing Things To Do In Curaçao to get a greater concept what else there may be to do on the island, exterior of Willemstad.
5 greatest locations to dine in Willemstad
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1. The Wine Cellar
In the event you’re on the lookout for a chic eating expertise with delectable menu choices, The Wine Cellar could be the proper selection. This institution’s critiques converse of ‘phenomenal meals’, ‘a terrific environment’, and ‘impeccable service’. Standard menu gadgets right here embody the stuffed mushrooms, rack of lamb, and lobster bisque. You too can strive the crêpes Suzette which is a favourite with diners and pattern the vast collection of wines out there.
2. Kome
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Artwork and innovation collide at Kome restaurant in Pietermaai which presents a menu that features every part from sandwiches and pasta, to beef brisket and baked items. Kome’s inside is fashionable and welcoming and it’ll be fairly the deal with to order one of many favorites off their menu complemented by a craft cocktail made with recent fruit juice. Standard dishes embody the rooster and waffles, hanger steak, the calamari, the fish tacos and the duck.
3. Gouverneur de Rouville
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From the restored colonial constructing the place this restaurant is housed, the view is nothing wanting mesmerizing. Add to that the scrumptious Dutch and Caribbean impressed meals served right here and what you’ll have is without doubt one of the greatest locations to dine in Curaçao. From this restaurant you’ll be able to enjoyment of unrivalled views of Sint Annabaai and have probably the most romantic night on the refined bar which features a terrace. Standard dishes embody the Caribbean rooster, the steak grilled on the Inexperienced Egg, the meat stew and the salads.
4. BijBlauw
The situation, service and meals stand out at this institution and the views of the open sea undoubtedly add some factors to the general enchantment. Diners love the risotto, tenderloin, grouper and the Chef’s Alternative shock menu this institution provides and in addition simply stopping by to hang around and luxuriate in some drinks and appetizers. General, BijBlauw is price attempting no less than as soon as whereas in Willemstad.
5. Outdated Market
Outdated Market in Willemstad is a well-liked place to dine for genuine island delicacies with specialty gadgets like pumpkin pancakes, entire pink snapper, cactus or goat stew, and extra. Prospects often sit at picnic tables inside the big barn wanting constructing that homes this restaurant to dine. That is undoubtedly a great eatery for the adventurous foodie.
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Foodies will love all-inclusive resort Sandals Royal Curacao! This resort provides its friends 9 distinctive eating places and three meals vehicles. One of the best half? Meals and (alcoholic) drinks are at all times included, at all times limitless!
5 greatest locations to buy in Willemstad
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Curaçao is a kind of islands that’s identified for good purchasing. This can be a duty-free port, and issues like embroidered linen, clogs, cheese, artwork, craft, and way more could be present in abundance. A lot of the good purchasing spots are close to Punda and Otrobanda’s Breedestraat.
1. Punda
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Curaçao is nice for purchasing, and Punda is a kind of locations the place you’ll discover a wide range of choices whether or not you’re on the lookout for souvenirs, clothes, cosmetics, jewellery, electronics, or one thing else. The streets on this space are pedestrian-only so you will not have too troublesome of a time getting round. Apart from the purchasing, in Punda you’ll be struck by the magnificence and vibrancy of the streets and the openness of the individuals who’re at all times prepared to level you in the best course.
2. Mambo Seaside Boulevard
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Mambo Seaside Boulevard is each half the leisure strip you’d look forward to finding on a taking place Caribbean island like Curaçao. This strip is nice for purchasing, eating, and leisure with loads of room left over to dive into the crystal clear waters of Mambo Seaside which is without doubt one of the greatest seashores in Curaçao. Irrespective of the time of day you go to Mambo Seaside Boulevard, there’s at all times one thing fascinating to do!
3. Renaissance Mall & Rif Fort
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There are about 50 outlets on the Renaissance Mall & Rif Fort which provide a bit of one thing for everybody. Whether or not you’re on the lookout for one thing cool to put on, jewellery or equipment, magnificence merchandise, or just about something underneath the solar (together with well-known manufacturers!), you’ll discover one thing to go well with at this distinctive shopping center which is housed in an outdated Fort.
Good to know: Punda and Rif Fort are inside 10-minute strolling distance from one another and customers usually mix the 2 when exploring Willemstad.
4. Zuikertuin Mall
Zuikertuin Mall is right for an intimate purchasing expertise particularly if you happen to don’t have a number of time to spare, however need one thing particular. There are round 25 outlets at this mall, 5 eating places and a market. Zuikertuin opens from 9:00am – 8:00pm Monday to Saturday, and on each first Sunday of the month from 10:00am – 4:00pm.
5. Sambil Curaçao
Sambil is a shopping mall in Curaçao the place you too can discover leisure, eating places and generally even occasions taking place. There’s a children’ park, bowling alley, a trampoline park often known as the ‘Xtreme Zone’, a cinema, an interactive technological middle for the entire household often known as the ‘Click on Zone’, a household practice contained in the mall, Rodito rides for purchasing and leisure, and even soccer fields. In fact, there’s additionally purchasing! If you will get away from all the joy for a when you simply would possibly be capable to stroll away with greater than a few good finds.
High occasions and festivals in Willemstad
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Curaçao Heineken Regatta
January
Heineken is thought for internet hosting tremendous enjoyable occasions and in Curaçao one of many model’s standout happenings is the Curaçao Heineken Regatta. This can be a sporty occasion held late in January which sails off from Willemstad. Normally spanning for 3 days, sailors compete for a financial prize whereas spectators get pleasure from seashore barbecues and events.
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Curaçao North Sea Jazz Competition
August
Islands are made for jazzy festivals just like the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Competition the place you’ll be able to let your hair down as your physique sways to rhythmic and charming tunes. This music competition is without doubt one of the hottest in Curaçao and it entails two days of pleasure in Piscadera Bay. This competition often occurs within the month of August on this island and options artists from all over the world. Whereas jazz is the principle attraction, different genres together with soul, hip hop, and R&B are additionally performed and carried out, notably throughout the week main as much as the massive occasion.
Curaçao Restaurant Week
October
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Held within the off-season, Restaurant Week in Curaçao is a good time to journey to the island if you wish to bask in specials from many various eating places on the island and luxuriate in an array of cuisines. Throughout Restaurant week which is often held in October, a whole bunch of eating places take part on the enjoyable, many providing delectable 3-course meals at superb costs. This occasion tends to go previous one week and it’s a good way to get bang in your buck in the case of tasting the most effective Curaçao has to supply.
Amstel Curaçao Race
November
The biking crowd will love the Amstel Curaçao Race which is about 50 miles lengthy (80 km). This cycle race occurs in the beginning of the excessive season in November and often sees some massive names within the biking world. In the event you’re touring with household, this isn’t solely a terrific occasion to take a look at whereas in Curaçao, however it’s an incredible time to go to this island total.
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Tip: For a whole overview of all occasions all year long, learn our ‘best time to visit Curaçao’ article!
Finest time to go to Willemstad
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One of the best time to go to capital metropolis Willemstad coincides with the best time to visit Curaçao which is between the months of December and mid-April. These months are thought-about peak season, and round this time of yr there’s often extra actions taking place on island and nice temperatures.
Though this is usually a nice time to go, there’s hardly a nasty time to go to Willemstad or Curaçao normally as this island has constantly heat temperatures and loads of sunshine. Although there’s a moist season from October to December, you’re unlikely to see long-lasting rains as that is principally a dry island.
The place to remain in Willemstad?
A trip as unique as one on the island of Curaçao requires lodging that’s simply as memorable. A problem free possibility can be an all-inclusive resort, and there are just a few choices to select from in Curaçao together with Sandals’ newest resort in Curaçao which is situated on a 30-minute drive from Willemstad.
Image: Our oceanfront Awa Seaside Butler Bungalows at Sandals Royal Curacao are the proper romantic escape.
Sandals Royal Curaçao is an adults-only resort, designed for {couples}, that includes 350 luxurious rooms and suites.
The resort provides friends limitless meals and (alcoholic) drinks at 8 eating places and three meals vehicles. Visitors are in a position to get pleasure from free water sports activities, and free snorkeling and scuba diving journeys. Golf aficionados even have entry to the neighboring 18-hole, par 72 Pete Dye championship golf course with ocean views.
FAQ’s
What languages do folks converse in Curaçao?
The three principal languages spoken in Curaçao are English, Dutch, and Papiamento.
Is there Uber in Curaçao?
There are no ride-sharing companies on the island of Curaçao, however you’ll be able to strive the choice of a shared taxi whereas there which could be more cost effective than an everyday taxi.
Are there taxis in Curaçao?
Sure, you’ll be capable to discover taxis to get round in whereas in Curaçao. It’ll be straightforward to acknowledge official taxis on this island as they’ve a licence plate with the letters “TX”. Taxis on this island aren’t metered and drivers depend on fare-sheets to calculate expenses. Some taxi drivers do upon request tackle the function of tour information, taking guests to totally different components of the island. If that is the form of service you’re concerned about, let your driver know prematurely.
Do I would like a automotive in Curaçao?
It may be useful to get a automotive rental in Curaçao, however this isn’t at all times wanted. You possibly can discover the varied sights by taxi and even by public bus. In the event you’ll be staying at all-inclusive resort Sandals Royal Curaçao the top-level rooms embody a MINI Cooper which you need to use to discover the island throughout your keep, freed from cost.
Is Curaçao a celebration island?
Nice nightlife is without doubt one of the issues Curaçao is thought for. Whereas on the common that is principally a chill and peaceable island, at nights issues warmth up with fairly just a few bars and golf equipment. Beachside bars are particularly well-liked in Curaçao, like these round Mambo Seaside which regularly characteristic DJs and dwell music. Curaçao additionally has a number of music festivals yearly together with Carnival and King’s Day celebrations.
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What’s the forex of Curaçao?
The forex utilized in Curaçao is the Netherlands Antillean guilder.
How do you pronounce Curaçao?
Begin with a tough ‘C’, and understand that the ‘ç’ (c-cedilla) is pronounced as an “S”. Once you say it out loud Curaçao ought to sound one thing like ‘Treatment-ah-souw’.
How heat is the water in Curaçao?
Water temperatures on Curaçao’s seashores are on common 81°F (27°C) yearly which is ideal for cooling off with out getting too chilly.
Willemstad is the best place for a colourful getaway!
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Willemstad is without doubt one of the most stunning cities within the Caribbean. It’s good for the vacationer on the lookout for a metropolis that has all of it, someplace that can be in shut sufficient proximity to a few of the greatest all-inclusive resorts in Curaçao.
The sweetness and shade of Willemstad are among the many first belongings you’ll discover if you get there. As you discover, you’ll encounter increasingly fascinating folks, and as you get to know extra about Willemstad and Curaçao normally, you’ll expertise a few of the most fascinating issues to do on this island. One factor’s for positive, your reminiscences in Willemstad will final a lifetime.
Image: The elegant Kurason Island Poolside Butler Bungalows at Sandals Royal Curacao seize the peak of luxurious with a non-public pool and extra.
