Fun Facts About Curaçao | Things You Didn't Know!

When we think of tropical paradises, our minds often drift to the Caribbean. Here lies a gem of an island: Curaçao.

This vibrant island, known for its stunning beaches and lively culture, is full of fun facts you might not know. We’ve gathered all the unique details for you.

Location: The island is the middle one in the charming trio of the ABC islands, nestled between Aruba and Bonaire.
Climate: The sun here shines as if it knows no other way. Expect daily temperatures between 86-91°F, with a historic ‘cold’ snap of 67.5°F on January 2, 2014. Yes, that was the record low.
Rainy season: It lasts from October to January. But even during a shower, the temperature stays pleasantly tropical.
History: The Netherlands conquered Curaçao in 1634, and since 1665, it played a key role in the slave trade. A painful history, but one that shows the island’s resilience.
World Heritage Site: Willemstad, the capital, is a colorful palette listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Think of a Mondrian painting, but with more life and fewer straight lines.
Name: Willemstad is named after William of Orange, the founder of the Dutch state. It’s like a piece of the Netherlands, but with more sun and less rain.
Island name: The name “Curaçao” comes from the Portuguese “Ilha da Curação,” which means “island of healing.” A name that truly fits the island’s charm.
Coral reefs: Unfortunately, the coral reefs have suffered, decreasing from 32.6% to 9.3% coverage in 40 years. But this also tells a story of change and hope.
Christoffelberg: The highest point on Curaçao is Christoffelberg, standing proud at 1,220 feet. Not exactly the Himalayas, but big enough for an adventurous hike.
Beaches: Curaçao boasts 37 beaches, with Baya Beach, Blauwbaai, and Grote and Kleine Knip being the most famous. Beaches that look like the screensavers on your laptop, but real.
Outlets: The outlets are type A and B. So, you don’t need a travel adapter for Curaçao.
Excursions: A day trip to Klein Curaçao is the most popular excursion for tourists. A little slice of paradise within paradise.
Food and drink: At Jaanchies restaurant, you can try iguana soup. Yes, iguana. And the most famous drink? Blue Curaçao liqueur, made from the peel of the bitter Laraha orange.
Transport: Curaçao has its own airport, Curaçao International Airport. And when it comes to public transport, think buses only.
Currency: You can pay with Antillean guilders and US dollars on Curaçao.
Sports: Baseball is the most popular sport on Curaçao.
Language: The mother tongue on Curaçao is Papiamentu, a blend of 48 other languages. It’s like the whole world decided to speak one language.
Education: Most schools on Curaçao require uniforms to minimize the visible differences between rich and poor. A lesson in equality, wrapped in a neat outfit.
Speed limit: The speed limit is 25 mph in neighborhoods and 37 mph on main roads. No rush on this island.
Synagogue: The oldest synagogue on Curaçao, the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, dates back to 1732 and is still in use. A piece of history that has stood the test of time.
University of Curaçao (UoC): This is the only university on the island.
Cuisine: Curaçaoan cuisine is a mix of African, Indian, Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, and Asian influences. A culinary world tour on one plate.