Practical Information

Curacao is 1 of the islands that makes up the Netherlands Antilles. Willemstad is the capital of Curacao, and within the capital city it is not uncommon to find many Dutch influences when it comes to architecture, and style. Curacao is a beautiful blend of Dutch and Caribbean touches, with a history that is rich and deep. There are many museums, monuments, and water-related activities to keep visitors busy while visiting. The atmosphere is relaxed and laid back, and the culinary delights are a highlight of any trip.

Location - Curacao is located in the southwestern part of the Caribbean, a little over 40 miles north of the coast of Venezuela in South America. Curacao is part of the "ABC" islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) within the Caribbean Sea. Curacao is the largest of the 5 islands that make up the Netherlands Antilles Islands. The island is roughly about 10 miles wide and approximately 50 miles in length.

Population - It is estimated that there are approximately 192,000 people inhabiting the island, with 60,000 of the population residing in the capital, Willemstad.

Languages - The local language of Curacao is Papiamentua (also known as Papiamento), a Creole dialect. Papiamentua is a mix of Spanish, Portugese, Dutch, English, and French with some Arawak Indian and African influences thrown in for good measure. The heritage of the island represents more than 50 countries, so the language influences are broad and wide. Dutch is the official language, and English and Spanish are all widely used by the locals.

Time Zone - Atlantic Standard Time or GMT -4.

Currency - The guilder, the official currency of the Netherlands Antilles, is commonly referred to as the florin (Nafl). U.S. dollars are also widely accepted in most places.

Highest Point - Mount Christoffel Mountain at 1,220 feet.

Electricity - 110 to 130V AC, 50 Hz, 2-pin plugs are the standard outlet plug.

Telephone - The international country code for all the islands in the Netherlands Antilles is 599. All local numbers are 7-digit numbers. 

Weather - Curacao is a tropical island with a warm and sunny climate all year. The average temperature annually ranges somewhere between 80 degrees to 85 degrees F (approximately 27 degrees C). Trade winds blow in from the East in the Spring. The rainy season is usually from October to February but generally consists of short, light showers during the night, keeping the days sunny and warm. The annual rainfall averages 22 inches.