Curacao

Curaçao is a charming island in the southern Caribbean Sea that attracts travellers with its unique blend of European architecture and Caribbean flair. This small but vibrant island is famous for its colourful buildings, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. The island's capital, Willemstad, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that captures the imagination with its Dutch colonial architecture painted in pastel shades.

Curaçao's cultural heritage is diverse, reflecting the influence of the various peoples who have left their mark on the island. While strolling through the streets of Willemstad, you can see iconic sites such as the famous floating Queen Emma Bridge or visit Landhuis Chobolobo, where the original Blue Curaçao liqueur is produced. The atmosphere on the island is relaxed and friendly, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic Caribbean experience. For visitors from the UAE, a number of restaurants in Willemstad offer halal food options.

In addition to its cultural attractions, Curaçao offers magnificent natural beauty. The island is surrounded by more than 35 beaches, from secluded coves to lively coastal areas perfect for swimming, snorkelling, and diving. The warm, tropical climate provides year-round sunshine, creating perfect conditions for enjoying the outdoors and exploring the underwater world, which is renowned for its coral reefs and rich marine biodiversity.

The official currency of Curaçao is the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG), also known as the florin. Interestingly, US dollars are also widely accepted across the island, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants, often at a fixed exchange rate. As the UAE Dirham is pegged to the US Dollar, this makes transactions straightforward for visitors from the UAE. Guilder banknotes feature colourful designs, showcasing local flora, fauna, and historical figures.

You can exchange currency for local guilders at banks or official exchange offices, which typically offer more favourable rates than hotels. It is advisable to avoid exchanging money with street vendors. Credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are accepted in most large establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops, particularly in the capital, Willemstad. However, for smaller purchases, public transport fares, or visiting local markets, it is always useful to have some cash on hand in either guilders or US dollars. Be aware that if you pay in US dollars, you may receive your change in guilders.

When planning a trip to Curaçao, it is essential to clarify the visa requirements in advance. For citizens of the United Arab Emirates, the great news is that a visa is not required for tourist trips to Curaçao for a stay of up to 90 days. This makes it a convenient and accessible destination for UAE passport holders.

While UAE citizens enjoy visa-free entry, residents of the UAE holding other passports should verify the rules applicable to their nationality. For some nationalities, a short-term Caribbean visa may be necessary, which can typically be obtained through the embassies or consulates of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. It is important to note that a Schengen visa is not valid for entry into the Caribbean parts of the Kingdom of the Netherlands.

Regardless of visa status, all travellers to Curaçao must have a valid passport that will remain valid for the entire duration of their stay. It is also highly recommended to carry return or onward tickets, confirmation of your hotel booking, and adequate travel or medical insurance. As visa regulations can change, we strongly advise always checking the most current information on the official websites of the Kingdom of the Netherlands' embassies or Curaçao's visa centres before you travel.

When planning a trip to Curaçao, you will not need to worry about time differences within the country. The entire island of Curaçao operates on a single time zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is UTC-4. This means the time is the same across the whole island, including in the capital, Willemstad. For travellers from the UAE, Curaçao is 8 hours behind Gulf Standard Time (GST).

It is important to note that Curaçao does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains consistent all year round. Since the UAE also does not have seasonal clock changes, the 8-hour time difference is constant. We still recommend checking the current time before your trip to plan your calls and schedule your first few days on the island correctly.

As a captivating Caribbean island, Curaçao is most accessible to travellers by air. The country's main gateway is Curaçao International Airport, located near the capital, Willemstad. Regular flights operate from North and South America, as well as from Europe, particularly the Netherlands. For travellers from other parts of the world, convenient connections are available through major international aviation hubs.

For residents and travellers from the UAE, reaching Curaçao typically involves a one- or two-stop flight. Major airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways, along with European carriers like KLM, offer routes with connections in cities like Amsterdam, Miami, or New York. There are no direct flights, so planning for a layover is essential.

In addition to air travel, Curaçao is a popular port of call for many Caribbean cruise liners, which offers another excellent opportunity to visit this picturesque island as part of a sea voyage. It is worth noting that there may not be regular ferry services connecting to the mainland or other major islands in the region, making cruises the primary means of arrival by sea for many tourists. Regardless of your chosen method of travel, it is highly recommended to book tickets and cruise places well in advance, especially if your trip is planned during the peak tourist season. This will not only help you secure the best prices but also guarantee availability.

For your reference, here is a summary of the main airport:

Curaçao, an enchanting island in the Caribbean Sea, offers travellers a diverse range of holiday experiences. Beyond its world-renowned beaches and secluded bays, the island is famed for its vibrant cities and well-developed resort areas. There is something for everyone, from exploring its rich history and culture to enjoying tranquil beach relaxation.

The heart and crown jewel of the island is undoubtedly its capital city, Willemstad. This city, with its historic centre listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, captivates with its unique Dutch colonial architecture and the iconic colourful buildings of the Handelskade waterfront. A stroll through Willemstad allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant Caribbean atmosphere, discover the local culture, and explore historic forts. It also offers an opportunity to enjoy excellent cuisine, with several restaurants providing halal options, and great shopping.

Curaçao, a charming island in the Caribbean Sea, offers its guests a wealth of interesting places. One of the most recognisable landmarks is the Queen Emma Bridge in the capital, Willemstad. This unique pontoon bridge, affectionately known as the "Swinging Old Lady", connects the Punda and Otrobanda districts and regularly swings open to allow ships to pass, creating a fascinating spectacle.

A visit to Landhuis Chobolobo is a must. This historic country house is where the world-famous Blue Curaçao liqueur is produced. Here, you can learn about the history of this spirit, see the production process, and sample various types. The tour also presents an opportunity to learn about and taste non-alcoholic versions of their famous products, making it an inclusive experience for all visitors.

For those interested in the island's rich history and culture, the Kura Hulanda Museum is an essential stop. Located within a complex of restored historic buildings, the museum chronicles the transatlantic slave trade and its impact on the Caribbean region, while also showcasing African art and culture.

History and shopping enthusiasts will enjoy the Renaissance Mall & Rif Fort complex. The ancient Rif Fort, which once guarded the harbour entrance, now houses boutiques, restaurants, and cafés, offering a unique blend of historical atmosphere and modern conveniences. While exploring the dining options, it is advisable to enquire about halal-certified dishes to ensure they meet your dietary requirements.

Curaçao is an island of eternal summer, where the sun shines almost all year round and pleasant trade winds temper the heat. Thanks to its location outside the main hurricane belt, the island is an attractive destination at any time of the year. Nevertheless, there are two main seasons, each with its own characteristics that can influence your travel experience.

High season in Curaçao traditionally lasts from December to April. During this time, the weather is at its driest and sunniest, with comfortable air temperatures of around 28-30°C, creating ideal conditions for beach holidays, diving, and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. One of the main events of this period is the famous Curaçao Carnival, which usually takes place in February or March. This vibrant and large-scale celebration attracts many tourists from all over the world. The disadvantages of the high season include higher prices for accommodation and airfares, as well as a larger number of holidaymakers on popular beaches and at attractions.

Low season, or the off-season, in Curaçao covers the period from May to November. The weather remains warm, but the likelihood of short tropical showers increases, especially from September to November, although they do not usually last long and are quickly replaced by sunshine. The air and water temperatures are practically the same as in the high season. The main advantages of this time are noticeably fewer tourists and more affordable prices for hotels and various services. Although some smaller establishments may have reduced operating hours, the main tourist infrastructure functions as normal. At the end of August and the beginning of September, the island hosts the popular Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival, which attracts music lovers from all over the world. Given the small size of the island, the climatic conditions are almost identical throughout its territory. Overall, Curaçao is welcoming all year round, and the choice of the best time to travel depends on your personal preferences regarding weather, budget, and your desire to attend specific cultural events.

The culture of Curaçao is a wonderful blend of European, African, and Caribbean traditions, which makes it particularly welcoming and colourful. Local people value politeness and friendliness. When interacting, it is customary to greet one another; simple phrases in Papiamento, such as "Bon dia" (good morning), "Bon tardi" (good afternoon/evening), or "Bon nochi" (good night), will be warmly received, although English and Dutch are also widely spoken. Direct eye contact during a conversation is generally welcomed and seen as a sign of openness. If you are invited to someone's home, a small token of appreciation, such as flowers or sweets, is a pleasant gesture that shows your gratitude.

Regarding clothing, casual style and swimwear are perfectly appropriate on beaches and in resort areas. However, when visiting places of worship or some official buildings, it is better to opt for more modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. For dinner at a fine restaurant or an evening out, an elegant smart-casual style is suitable. For Muslim travellers, it is worth noting that the Omar bin Al-Khattab Mosque is located in Willemstad, the island's capital. While halal food is not widely available, some resorts may be able to accommodate requests with advance notice. It is always best to inquire ahead of your visit.

To ensure your journey through Curaçao is as comfortable as possible and leaves only positive memories, it is worth remembering a few simple rules of respect for the local culture. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of local residents. Do not rush things – the concept of "island time" here means a more relaxed and unhurried pace of life. Try not to speak too loudly and avoid overly expressive displays of emotion in public places. Showing an interest in the local language, even if it is just a few phrases in Papiamento, will always be appreciated and will help you connect with the residents of this beautiful island.

Curaçao offers a diverse range of entertainment to satisfy the tastes of all kinds of travellers. Fans of outdoor activities will find a paradise for diving and snorkelling here, thanks to the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea and its rich underwater world. Many of the island's beaches are ideal for water sports, while the national parks invite you to explore their unique flora and fauna on a hike.

The island's cultural life is centred in its charming capital, Willemstad. Here you can visit interesting museums, such as the Kura Hulanda Museum, discover the colonial architecture listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and simply enjoy the atmosphere of the historic streets. In the evening, the island comes alive: numerous restaurants, for example, the Grand Café De Gouverneur de Rouville or Kome, and cafés offer local and international cuisine, as well as refreshing beverages accompanied by live music. While specific halal-certified restaurants are uncommon, many eateries provide a variety of seafood and vegetarian dishes; it is always recommended to ask the staff about preparation methods. A walk across the famous Queen Emma Bridge amidst the city's night lights will be an unforgettable experience.

For those who cannot imagine a holiday without shopping, Curaçao has interesting options to offer. In Willemstad, you can find modern shopping centres like the Renaissance Mall & Rif Fort, as well as vibrant markets such as the Old Market, which sells local delicacies and souvenirs. The famous "Blue Curaçao" liqueur, produced at Landhuis Chobolobo, is a particularly popular local product, along with items from local artisans. Families with children will appreciate the beautiful beaches, the opportunity to get acquainted with marine life, and the island's overall friendly and safe atmosphere, which is perfect for a relaxing holiday.

Planning a trip? Excellent! To ensure the financial side of your journey doesn't come as a surprise, it is important to remember that currency rates are constantly changing. Therefore, we strongly advise monitoring the latest rates, both before your departure and throughout your entire trip. To do so, you can use the data provided below — we monitor currency rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most up-to-date information.