| |
|
Curaçao
is the largest island in the Netherlands Antilles, and is part of the Dutch Leeward Islands, also known as the
Dutch Antilles. Willemstad, the capital, is noted for its brightly coloured, Dutch-style houses and Cunucu dwellings
(based on African-style mud and wattle huts). It is one of the finest shopping centres in the Caribbean. The harbor
has a floating market where colorful barges full of agricultural produce are moored. Nearby is the new market building,
the design of which is very striking. St Christoffel National Park, occupying the most northwestern part of the
island, is a nature reserve dominated by the mountain of the same name. There are several caves decorated with
Arawak Indian paintings, some unusual rock formations and fine views across the countryside. Lucky visitors may
spy iguanas and shy Curaçao deer. Traditional Dutch food is popular, as well as the exciting flavors of
Creole food, criollo, which makes good use of fresh fish. There are several discos run by hotels on the island
some of which also have a casino.
Curaçao diving is unique for many reasons.  It is set apart from other Caribbean destinations by its diversity and its density of sea
life, its many underwater landscapes, and its reef's proximity to shore. Reefs surround the island, attaching to
the shore like a narrow fringe. Massive coral formations extend into the depths with deep-water fish patrolling
the plunging walls. The reef walls on Curaçao vary from moderate 45 degree angles to steep 90 degree angles.
There is plenty to see, be it dolphins playing, turtles sunning, or even pilot whales migrating.
Even the most experienced diver will find the fish life of Curaçao entertaining. even sometimes dramatic.
Instead of exploring the whole reef in one dive, choose one coral-covered spot and just float above the coral heads
and watch life go on. There are over 500 species of fish inhabiting these Caribbean reefs, so you are sure to see
plenty of activity.
Climate: Summer 85F 29C Winter 75F 24C
Water Temp 78 - 83F 25 -28C
Visibility 50 - 100 ft 15 - 30 m
|
| |
| |
|
Dive Services/Accommodations
|
| |
|
International
Accommodations - Curacao Villas
Willem de Zwijgerlaan 13
Emmastad
Curacao
Netherlands Antilles
Tel.: 5999-736-2030
Fax.: 5999-736-6616
E-Mail: intac@carib-online.net
Web: http://www.curacao-villas.com
a selection of waterfront homes at Coral Cliff, Curacao. Homes
have ocean view and are just a short walk from beach and dive
school. Both shore diving and boat diving is possible at this
location through Sunset Divers at Sunset Waters Resort. Select
from 2, 3, or 5 bedroom villas.
Ceri
Neger Apartments
Mailing Address: Eligio/Lidia Koeyers
Fontein # 51
Curacao
Neth. Antilles
Tel.: (999)8649032/999 5235742
E-Mail: ekoeyers@bgate.net
Web: http://www.cerineger.com
Cer'i Neger Apartments is located in Curacao, Netherlands
Antilles, fifteen minutes from the beaches, 20 minutes from
the airport and 25 minuets from the Capital, Willemstad. Cer'i
Neger Apartments is characterized by its peacefulness and
privacy. Scuba diving with Aqua Dive is nearby.
|
| |
| |
|
Getting There
|
| |
By Air
There are a number of airlines which service Curacao, allowing travel any day of the week.
DCA
From Miami: Daily
From Venezuela and Other Caribbean Destinations: Daily
From Holland twice a week
Aeropostal
American
Airlines
From Miami with connection to most major US cities
American
Eagle
Daily from San Juan Puerto Rico
Air
Jamaica
Easy Same-Day connections from 12 U.S. Gateways
Avianca
KLM
From Amsterdam: Daily
Martinair
From Amsterdam: Tuesday & Thursday
Servivensa
Airlines
Sobelair
From Brussels in cooperation with van der Valk Travel: every Wednesday
Entry Requirements
US and Canadian citizens need either a valid passport, or proof of citizenship in the form of an original birth
certificate accompanied by photo ID, and an onward or return ticket. Most other nationals need only a passport.
Visitors from the Dominican Republic, Colombia and Haiti require a visa. You will need to apply for a resident
permit if you plan to stay for longer than three months. You are not allowed to work or live on Curacao without
a work permit.
Departure Tax
An airport tax of U.S.$ 20.00 per person for international flights and flights to Aruba, or U.S. $10.00 per person
for inter-island flights is payable when leaving the island.
Helpful Travel Tips
Electricity
Electricity is 110 - 130 volts/50 cycles, similar but not identical to the US standard. Most 60 cycle electrical
appliances from the United States will function properly, although appliances that have internal time mechanisms
will not keep the correct time and hairdryers and curling irons may overheat if used for too long. Dual voltage
appliances from Europe and South America will need an adapter plug, readily available on the island. Although electrical
current is generally reliable, consider using a surge regulator for sensitive electronic devices and computers.
It's a good idea to charge underwater strobes and videos on the regulated systems at dive shops and photo centers.
Taxis
Taxi's are easy to recognize by their signs and the TX on their registration plates. The prices are based for 1-4
people from 6 am-11pm. A fifth person costs 25% more. After 11pm there is 25% surcharge. Passengers should agree
on a price for the journey with the driver first. There are taxi stands at the airport, hotels and Sha Caprileskade
in Punda.
Rental Cars
Avis, Hertz, National, Budget and a number of local companies are available. There are a choice of models available
and rates range from about $25. for a compact to $45. for a jeep.
Dress
Temperatures are warm throughout the year, so light, casual tropical wear is in order. Remember to protect yourself
from sunburn. Most indoor establishments are air conditioned so if you chill easily, you may need a lightweight
jacket or long sleeves. Some restaurants prohibit shorts or sandals; some casinos also require jackets for men.
Overly revealing clothes and bathing suits are not appropriate, except on the beach. If you plan to walk in the
countryside, wear sturdy shoes and long pants to protect your legs from the cacti.
Water
Curacao distills water from the sea and it is excellent. No problems here.
Tipping
Visitors generally tip 10 to 15 % in restaurants unless a gratuity is added. |
|
| |
| |
|
Request
More Diving & Accommodations Information
|
| |
| |
|