Curacao
Staff Writer
Curacao's Blue Bay may be the only noteworthy golf option on the island,
but it is definitely worth the travel, as it has often been touted as
one of the world's top-100.
Golf Courses at a Glance
- Blue Bay Golf and Beach Resort
Ph: 599 9 868 1755
An 18-hole championship tropical course features rocky, cliffside
holes with fantastic views of the gentle water.
FAQ
1. What and where is Curacao?
The island of Curacao is located in the southwestern Caribbean,
35 miles north of Venezuela. At 38 miles long and 7.5 miles at its
widest point, it is the largest of the Netherlands Antilles, a collection
of five Dutch-controlled Caribbean islands. Willemstad is the capital
city.
2. Do I need any special documents once I get there?
U.S. and Canadian citizens need either a valid passport or a proof
of citizenship accompanied by photo identification, each combined
with a return ticket. Visitors from most other countries must provide
a passport.
3. Will I suffer from any jet lag?
That of course depends on where you are coming from, but Puerto
Rico is in the Atlantic Standard Time zone, one hour ahead of Eastern
Standard Time during daylight savings time.
 4
.What type of weather should I expect?
Average temperatures for the tropical island waver in the mid-80s.
October to February is the rainy season, but Curacao only receives
about 22 inches of rain per year. It is outside of the hurricane
belt, and tropical disturbances are rare.
5. What is the official language and currency?
Dutch is the official language, but English, Spanish the native
language of Papiamento, are spoken fluently throughout. Although
U.S. currency is accepted everywhere, prices are in the Netherlands
Antillean florin, which is linked to the U.S dollar at a stable
rate of 1.77.
6. What kind of taxes will I pay during my stay?
There is a $20 per person departure tax for international flights,
and a $10 tax for those traveling within in the Caribbean. There
is a five percent government tax, and a 10 percent service charge
is incorporated into most restaurant bills.
7. Besides golf, what are some worthwhile activities?
Away from the sunny beach and warm sand, Curacao
offers several entertainment activities that your entire family
can enjoy – a walking tour through the historic city of
Willemstad, a bicycle trip through the countryside, a late day trip
to any one of the many museums, or a simple Jeep ride across the
island.
Transportation Information
The easiest way to get to Curacao from the U.S. is through American
Airlines, which connects to Miami from most major cities. Other
carriers that make schedule trips to the island include DCE, Avianca,
KLM Royal Dutch, Servivensa, Aeropostal, American Eagle and Air
Jamaica.
It is about a two and a half hour flight from Miami.
There is also a handful of cruise lines that make stops at Curacao,
including Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Princess.
Hertz, Avis, National and Budget are the car rentals companies you will
probably recognize when you get off the plane. Your valid driver's license
will work. Expect to pay between $25 and $45 a day. Harley Davidson are
also available for rent, and are a popular method for traversing the small
island.
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