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\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThis unique destination has been shaped by an interesting mix of historical events and several cultural influences. Ideally located just outside the hurricane belt, Curaçao boast a practically perfect year round climate. Many adventure travelers seek out this destination known for its eco-tourism and pristine diving conditions. Of course those looking to relax and unwind on one of the 30 or so gleaming white beaches will be just as content. Nature lovers and historical buffs will be just as enthralled by the many gardens, parks, museums and estates to visit. <\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOther activities include an 18-hole championship golf course, a dolphin interaction program, a floating market, caves, and even an Ostrich farm. Accommodations vary from luxury resorts, seaside villas and personable guesthouses. A lively nightlife awaits you in one of the many clubs, bars or casinos.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
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\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOf course let us not forget to satisfy our sweet tooth with a few local treats. Sunchi<\/b> are meringue "kisses", made of sugar, egg whites, and food coloring. Panseiku<\/b> are toasted peanuts and almond essence, cooked in a brittle glaze of dark brown sugar.Kokada<\/b> are freshly grated coconut patties, held together in sugar syrup, tinted with food coloring.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe Dutch influence<\/b> is particularly present, such as in the architecture of colonial buildings, especially on every level of society, like in the legal, educational and governmental systems. To this day, almost 4% of Curaçao's population was born in Holland. Another greet influence came from Jewish community<\/b> fleeing persecution. They too have shaped the island's economy, politics and culture. The African culture<\/b> is quite strong as well since African descendents make up the majority. Their influence can be seen in the language of Papiamentu, the Tambú musical style, food and religion. <\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCuraçao is home to a few prolific artists<\/b>, such as the painter Nena Sanchez and the sculptor Jolanta Pawlak. <\/p>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tMusic is a big part of every day life and it is a tribute to the wide array of ethnic groups. The Waltz, French quadrille, Spanish dansa and Bohemian polka make up the European influences<\/b>. But it is the African rhythms<\/b> that are most recognizable, with the Tambú, Seú and Tumba<\/b> styles. Labour songs<\/b>were sung by the slaves during digging, rowing, and other labour. Over 1,500 of these songs are known. Today's sounds include merengue, calypso, reggae, salsa, and cha-cha-cha<\/b> all with a Curaçaoan twist.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSome areas of the island may seem a bit rather barren with desert landscapes. To the north, the coast is characterized by rough limestone cliff set on top of ancient volcanic rock. Lush green hills lie to the west where you will find the highest point on the island, Mt. Christoffel, at 375 m above sea level.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tAn oil refinery was built on Curaçao following the discovery of oil in Venezuela. Curaçao became an independent entity within the Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1955. The capital city of Willemstad was added to the UNESCO list in 1997. Curaçao became constituent countries within the Kingdom of the Netherlands on 10 October 2010.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tCuraçaoan are big soccer and drag racing fans.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tOther currencies can be exchanged in the many banks and change offices. Banks ATMs are available throughout the more populated areas of the islands, with a few selected branches distributing US dollars. All major credit cards and traveller's cheques are accepted.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThere are several daily newspapers on the island. The leading papers are: Extra<\/i> in Papiamentu; Amigoe<\/i> in Dutch and English; and La Prensa<\/i>, the oldest Papiamento newspaper. Cable TV is available in most hotels.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThere are no required vaccines to enter the country, unless you are arriving from a yellow fever affected destination. The following vaccines are recommended for any tropical destination: hepatitis A and B, rabies, typhoid, tetanus and yellow fever.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tUse good judgement, take advantage of the safety deposit boxes provided by the hotels, do not leave valuables unattended in public and carry your wallet and camera discreetly. Also make sure to lock your hotel room and rental car.<\/p><\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHead to the New Market<\/b> for a fun shopping experience, where local produce and handicraft are sold here. TheFloating Market<\/b> is a peculiar set up where Venezuelan merchants sell their fresh produce from small authentic fishing boats which double as living quarters.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe departure tax of around US$32<\/b>, per person, is payable at the airport when leaving the island.<\/div>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
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