Sarah Rand
·5 min read
Curaçao is a Dutch-Caribbean island and country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands that lends its visitors a uniquely tranquil experience. It is unbeknownst to many travelers because it is somewhat of an underrated hidden gem. It is actually the only World Heritage Site in the entire Caribbean. This, along with the differing ambiance that the island offers, makes Curaçao an ideal destination for travelers desiring an adventurous yet relaxing paradise. Visitors to the island will appreciate the absence of the regular Caribbean island vacationer crowd (compared to other islands).
The island is quite unique. Locals are diverse and speak many different languages, including English, Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, and Papiamentu. Even some additional African and Indigenous languages are spoken, so travelers coming from various cultural backgrounds will likely not have trouble navigating the island. The identity of Curaçao has remained protected and has less industrial tourism feel than some other destinations. So, travelers can enjoy the thriving community of Curaçao.
The island also has an array of accommodations and attractions that fit different budgets, which makes it a safe destination for the wallets of many travelers. Whether travelers prefer a luxury or comfortable stay, Curaçao has options. This applies to activities on the island as well. It is one of the best diving islands in the Caribbean, has many celebrated local restaurants, and has overall popular ecotourism attractions. Marine life and the captivating cuisine of the island go hand in hand since tourists and locals are encouraged to hunt the invasive species of the water.
Most travelers come to Curaçao to enjoy the stunning nature and wildlife, eat the local delicacies and enjoy the friendly locals and vibrant culture. But of course, every destination has its mysteries and the safety level of the island is unclear due to it not being as popular as other Caribbean islands (like Aruba).
Safety
Curaçao is generally considered safe for tourists. While petty theft and street crime are concerns in the area, the main tourist areas are safe. This means most tourists do not fear for their safety and can explore the island freely. The island has a low risk for criminal danger and concerns in general since the country has a relatively lower level of criminal activity.
Travel Advisory
Since tourist areas are generally safe, it is no surprise that the U.S. Department of State considers the island of Curaçao to be a level one destination. Level one indicates that the island is safe and travelers should exercise standard precautions while in Curaçao. Some of those precautions include keeping copies of essential documents, staying alert to surroundings, and being diligent about possible scams. There is even a country information page linked with the travel advisory, which informs travelers of essential facts of the destination and safety precautions.
When To Visit
The best time to visit Curaçao depends on weather conditions and the travel season. The island is located outside the hurricane belt, so it does not experience torrential rains and has sunny skies throughout most of the year. From December through April, travelers can share some of the best weather the country sees year-round, which is marked by less sweltering heat. This time period is also the most popular season, so accommodation and airfare prices are usually high. The off-season runs from May to November since the summer has hot weather (with 90 degrees being the average temperature high). This season is when travelers can take advantage of more affordable pricing and more spacious beaches if they can handle the heat.
Transportation
The island’s public transportation is limited. This means that for travelers looking to get around, it may be hard to determine the best way to explore Curaçao. Some buses ride long-distance routes about every hour, while mini buses take short routes through the main roads. Both options are inexpensive and run nonstop throughout the day. Another option is taxis, which are often used to get from the Curaçao International Airport (CUR) to the capital city of Willemstad. The eight-mile journey is not challenging but some travelers prefer not dealing with foreign roads. What travelers gain in convenience, they will end up paying for with the often expensive taxi rides.
Travelers who want to take their possessions and safety into their own hands and have a valid U.S. driver’s license can drive a rental car around. To come and go as they please, travelers will need to rent a vehicle but should be careful when driving. The roads of Curaçao can be dangerous if caution is not exercised. Some traffic signs are not clearly displayed (or may not exist at all), and other motor vehicles (like scooters and ATVs) may not follow traffic rules. In more rural areas, travelers should be careful of animals, low lighting, and slippery roads when it rains.
Safe Areas To Stay In
While the best places to stay in Curaçao largely depend on each traveler’s preferences and budget, since it is a safe island, there are plenty of options. Here are some of the best choices with plenty to do nearby. Downtown Willemstad is a perfectly safe area to stay in. Since Curaçao is not metropolitan, staying in central areas does not threaten the safety of travelers. The downtown area offers close proximity to the airport and exquisite private beaches. Willemstad is known for its historical buildings, shopping center and fusion (Dutch and Afro-Caribbean) restaurants. The Piscadera bay area is another popular place for tourists to stay since it features a popular dive site and is great for hikers. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy the serene environment that this area offers since it has less tourists.
The accommodation prices in Curaçao vary so travelers should use their discretion when deciding on where to stay. Travelers have an array of accommodation options in each neighborhood that include staying in budget hotels, booking Airbnbs in gated communities or choosing luxury private villas on the beach.
