Calming pastels and different vibrant pops of shade all over the place you look, the town of Willemstad is inviting, to say the least. This metropolis is the capital of Dutch Caribbean island Curaçao and it’s a type 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 speak slightly about Curaçao. This Caribbean island is energetic, 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, effectively preserved historical past as will be seen in its many museums and artwork galleries, and the countless adventures that may be present in and round Willemstad.
When searching 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 Web site recognized for its Dutch impressed structure, seventeenth and 18th century fortifications, energetic markets, nice purchasing centres, and a lot extra.
When 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 path!
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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 brilliant 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. 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. In reality, one among 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 the town turned recognized for petroleum storage and refining, in addition to banking and – after all – because the a lot beloved vacationer hotspot it’s recognized as we speak.
Willemstad is an artsy metropolis, with murals and different types of road artwork throughout. There’s truly a legislation which stipulates that the buildings in Handelskade Avenue in Punda specifically, stay pastel coloured and as quaint and wonderful as they’re.
Prime 10 factors of curiosity in Willemstad
1. Dolphin Academy
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Love dolphins? If sure, likelihood is 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 of swim with the dolphins in addition to absorb 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 Previous Girl’, which is the title the Queen Emma Bridge goes by regionally, is a pontoon bridge within the metropolis of Willemstad. It’s laborious 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 the town from this vantage, and when it’s open, locals and guests can take one among 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 attention-grabbing Jewish historical past which will 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 will discover a wealth of data 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 enroll in an interactive and informational tour of this plantation the place you may study its historical past, the manufacturing means of Blue Curaçao, and the way it all started. There’s additionally a present store on the property the place you’ll be capable of purchase your personal bottle of Blue Curaçao to take residence.
5. Kura Hulanda Museum
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Inside Museum Kura Hulanda you’ll discover vital tidbits on Curaçao’s historical past together with details about the slave commerce, the tradition of the individuals who have 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 also can take a look at the spectacular assortment of West African artwork and artifacts and look at 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 observe, it will also be enjoyable for strolling and sightseeing when the bridge is down and there are not any boats in sight. When you do resolve to cross this bridge whereas in Curaçao, positively 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 in the event you’re searching for a family-friendly attraction in Curaçao, or simply someplace to spend the day the place you may stand up near marine life. You’ll be able to 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 need one thing a bit extra thrilling you’ll be capable of feed sharks as a part of the Animal Encounter, or simply meet, greet, and feed a number of the different sea life on the aquarium.
8. Mambo Seashore
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Mambo Seashore guarantees numerous pleasure for vacationers searching for an brisk scene. Nearly any time of day you may take a look at the Mambo Seashore Boulevard which incorporates numerous purchasing choices with the Curaçao Sea Aquarium close by. Mambo Seashore itself has a sprinkling of luxurious seashore golf equipment and eating places which can be price trying out whereas on this space. Normally it prices round USD$3.50 to get onto Mambo Seashore, however in the event you go to one of many seashore golf equipment within the Boulevard space you’ll be capable of entry the seashore free of charge.
9. Maritime Museum
There are numerous highlights of the Curaçao Maritime Museum expertise however among the many issues that go away the most important impression is the working mannequin of the Steam for Oil refinery that has been on the middle of the island’s financial system for years. Aside from that there are shows that element components of the island’s historical past referring to 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 will be enjoyable, and it would 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 is still embedded within the exterior wall of the church, converse of the unstable conflicts involving Europeans that after took middle stage on this Caribbean isle. Fort Amsterdam additionally homes the Workplace of the Governor Common of Curaçao.
Additionally learn: 54 Amazing Things To Do In Curaçao to get a greater thought what else there’s to do on the island, outdoors of Willemstad.
5 finest locations to dine in Willemstad
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1. The Wine Cellar
When you’re searching for a chic eating expertise with delectable menu choices, The Wine Cellar will be the proper selection. This institution’s evaluations converse of ‘phenomenal meals’, ‘an amazing ambiance’, and ‘impeccable service’. Widespread menu objects 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 number 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 thing from sandwiches and pasta, to beef brisket and baked items. Kome’s inside is fashionable and alluring and it’ll be fairly the deal with to order one of many favorites off their menu complemented by a craft cocktail made with contemporary fruit juice. Widespread dishes embody the hen 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 finest locations to dine in Curaçao. From this restaurant you may enjoyment of unrivalled views of Sint Annabaai and have probably the most romantic night on the subtle bar which features a terrace. Widespread dishes embody the Caribbean hen, 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 positively add some factors to the general attraction. 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. Total, BijBlauw is price attempting not less than as soon as whereas in Willemstad.
5. Previous Market
Previous Market in Willemstad is a well-liked place to dine for genuine island delicacies with specialty objects like pumpkin pancakes, complete crimson snapper, cactus or goat stew, and extra. Prospects normally sit at picnic tables inside the massive barn wanting constructing that homes this restaurant to dine. That is positively an excellent 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 all the time included, all the time limitless!
5 finest locations to buy in Willemstad
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Curaçao is a type of islands that’s recognized for good purchasing. This can be a duty-free port, and issues like embroidered linen, clogs, cheese, artwork, craft, and rather more will 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 type of locations the place you’ll discover a wide range of choices whether or not you’re searching 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. Except for the purchasing, in Punda you’ll be struck by the magnificence and vibrancy of the streets and the openness of the individuals who’re all the time keen to level you in the best path.
2. Mambo Seashore Boulevard
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Mambo Seashore Boulevard is each half the leisure strip you’d anticipate 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 Seashore which is without doubt one of the finest seashores in Curaçao. Regardless of the time of day you go to Mambo Seashore Boulevard, there’s all the time one thing attention-grabbing to do!
3. Renaissance Mall & Rif Fort
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There are about 50 outlets on the Renaissance Mall & Rif Fort which provide slightly one thing for everybody. Whether or not you’re searching 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 consumers usually mix the 2 when exploring Willemstad.
4. Zuikertuin Mall
Zuikertuin Mall is right for an intimate purchasing expertise particularly in the event you don’t have plenty 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 typically even occasions taking place. There’s a youngsters’ 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 prepare contained in the mall, Rodito rides for purchasing and leisure, and even soccer fields. Of course, there’s additionally purchasing! If you will get away from all the thrill for a when you simply may be capable of stroll away with greater than a few good finds.
Prime occasions and festivals in Willemstad
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Curaçao Heineken Regatta
January
Heineken is understood 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 take pleasure in 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 may 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 normally occurs within the month of August on this island and options artists from around the globe. Whereas jazz is the principle attraction, different genres together with soul, hip hop, and R&B are additionally performed and carried out, notably in the course of the week main as much as the large occasion.
Curaçao Restaurant Week
October
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Held within the off-season, Restaurant Week in Curaçao is a superb 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 normally held in October, tons of 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 an effective way to get bang on your buck in the case of tasting one of the best 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 firstly of the excessive season in November and normally sees some massive names within the biking world. When you’re touring with household, this isn’t solely an amazing 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!
Best 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 normally extra actions taking place on island and nice temperatures.
Though this generally is a nice time to go, there’s hardly a nasty time to go to Willemstad or Curaçao typically 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 choice 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. Company are in a position to take pleasure in 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 individuals converse in Curaçao?
The three primary 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 may strive the choice of a shared taxi whereas there which will be less expensive than an everyday taxi.
Are there taxis in Curaçao?
Sure, you’ll be capable of 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 costs. Some taxi drivers do upon request tackle the position of tour information, taking guests to totally different components of the island. If that is the type of service you’re fascinated by, let your driver know upfront.
Do I would like a automotive in Curaçao?
It may be useful to get a automotive rental in Curaçao, however this isn’t all the time wanted. You’ll be able to discover the assorted sights by taxi and even by public bus. When you’ll be staying at all-inclusive resort Sandals Royal Curaçao the top-level rooms embody a MINI Cooper which you should 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 understood 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 common in Curaçao, like these round Mambo Seashore which regularly characteristic DJs and reside 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 foreign money of Curaçao?
The foreign money utilized in Curaçao is the Netherlands Antillean guilder.
How do you pronounce Curaçao?
Begin with a tough ‘C’, and remember that the ‘ç’ (c-cedilla) is pronounced as an “S”. If you say it out loud Curaçao ought to sound one thing like ‘Remedy-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 perfect 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 searching for a metropolis that has all of it, someplace that can be in shut sufficient proximity to a number of the finest all-inclusive resorts in Curaçao.
The sweetness and shade of Willemstad are among the many first stuff you’ll discover whenever you get there. As you discover, you’ll encounter an increasing number of fascinating individuals, and as you get to know extra about Willemstad and Curaçao typically, you’ll expertise a number of the most attention-grabbing issues to do on this island. One factor’s for positive, your recollections 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 personal pool and extra.
