Curaçao is located approximately 35 miles off the northwestern coast of Venezuela. The island is about 444 sq. kilometers (171 sq. miles) in size, is characterized by low hilly terrain and low humidity due to the constant northeast breezes, and enjoys a mild tropical climate, fairly constant throughout the year. The average temperature is 28°C (76°F) and the island does not receive much rainfall.

The temperate climate of Curaçao invites the casual clothes of summer, and the no-press fabrics are ideal for both men and women who like to travel light. Trade winds bring fresh breezes from the sea. Bring two or more swimsuits and, even if you are a seasoned sunbather, some cover-ups for coping with the Caribbean's tanning sun.

Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao (and of the Netherlands Antilles), is home to the Government and the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles.

Brief History

Alonso de Ojeda, a Spanish navigator and Lieutenant of Christopher Columbus, discovered Curaçao in 1499. Approximately 136 years later the Dutch conquered Curaçao and removed the Spanish government. The victorious Dutch merchants transformed Curaçao into a very important trading center for the entire Caribbean basin.

In 1816, the Dutch were granted all six islands via a treaty; during this time they removed the indigenous Indian (Arawak) population and imported and used slaves until 1863, when slavery was finally abolished. This was immediately followed by a period of slow commercial activity, while the island’s economy readjusted.

In 1916, the industrial development of Curaçao was launched with the opening of the Shell oil refinery. Years later, in 1985 the Shell oil company had to close its refinery due to the global economic situation.

However, just two days after the refinery closed its doors, the plant was reopened under PDVSA, a Venezuelan oil company. This in combination with the large and efficient offshore sector, and the island's close relationship with the European Union, has ensured Curaçao’s economic survivability and prosperity clear into the next century.

Population of Curaçao

As per January 2008 the total population was approximately 135.000. The most recent break down of the population is from 1996; however, it is still a very good indicator of the basic demographics.

Labor force

Of this population, a total of approximately 56.000 comprised the labor force.

Languages

Dutch is the official language while English and Spanish are both widely spoken by the entire population. Papiamento (the common language of the Leeward Islands) is based mostly on a combination of Dutch, French, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Education

There are many public and private schools located on the island. Public schools are free, and attendance is required. The educational system in Curaçao is based on the Dutch system, and schools on the island meet the high standards applicable to institutions in the Netherlands.

The Curaçao educational system includes schools for elementary, secondary, technical, higher and limited university education, as well as schools for vocational training, in Dutch. Those attending the University of the Netherlands Antilles (UNA) at this time may pursue degrees in Law, Technical Engineering and/or Business Administration.

American style education is available from kindergarten through the 12th grade.

Currency

The unit of currency is the Netherlands Antilles guilder, the international symbol is ANG. This monetary unit is (like the US dollar) divided into 100 cents. The guilder (ANG) has been pegged to the US dollar at the exchange rate of US$ 1.00= ANG. 1.78. The rate of exchange offered by shops and hotels ranges from ANG 1.75 to ANG 1.80. Major credit cards and US dollars are widely accepted.

International Time

The Netherlands Antilles time zone is four hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), in other words Curaçao falls within the Atlantic Standard Time zone.

Entry Requirements

Upon arrival foreigners must have in their possession: a valid passport (U.S. and Canadian citizens need only proof of citizenship), a return or onward ticket, and the necessary documents to travel to a destination outside the Netherlands Antilles.

Finally, visitors should have sufficient means at their disposal to be able to support themselves during their stay in the Netherlands Antilles. Maximum stay is 14 days, with possibility of prolonging a visit to 90 days. For admittance after this period, a residence permit is required.

Official Holidays

Government offices, banks, the post office and most stores are closed on the official holidays listed above. Some Indian owned stores are closed on January 26 for Indian Republic Day. Jewish-owned establishments, including banks, are closed for Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur (September or October)