Punda is the main shopping district in the capital of Curacao, Willemstad. It is a quaint area right on the water. All the buildings are painted in typical Caribbean blues, reds, yellows, and greens and are extremely picturesque. You can visit the Floating Market where Venezuelan fisherman bring in fresh catches daily on their boats along with fresh fruits and vegetables. Plenty of places to eat along the narrow streets. Can easily access the other side, Otrabanda via the footbridge for additional market shopping.
“See a great museum in Curacao”
Kura Hulanda Museum
If you want to take a very short walk from the ship.and still see something you will remember for the rest of your life..go the 200 yard walk to the Kura Holanda Museum. It is dedicated to the history of the Afro slaves that came to the New World. Their sculptures, irons and a replica of the hold (hole)of a slave ship are there .
It is air-conditioned and a great way of spending a few hours of the hot day learning about the culture of the people that came to the islands in bondage.
“Jewish COMMUNITY OF CURACAO”
Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue
My husband and I traveled by Royal Caribbean to Curacao. We were fortunate to make tour arrangements with GiGi who is a member of the Congregation. I must point out that Royal Caribbean has a Jewish Heritage tour for this port but it was cancelled for a lack of participation.
She shared with us her family history which is amazingly interesting. There was a visit to the ancient cemetery and to a house of a Jewish family which is now a historic landmark and library. Finally, the Mikve Israel-Emanuel Synagogue.
I have been studying the history of the Shephardim and their travels to the Caribbean as well as Central and South America. Curacao is the Mother of the Jewish Caribbean and many families traveled to this Country from Holland in the 1600's.
As a traveler, whether you are Jewish or another ethnic religion, you should visit this Synagogue. There is a history here that all people should hear and experience. You may be surprised to learn that your history may have originated in Spain and that you are decendents of Conversos!
“Fun, Educational, Dolphin Safe, a must do!!”
Dolphin Academy
We just returned from Curacao and the Dolphin swim at the Seaquarium is definitely something you should try. It is a bit pricey but worth it. We spent alot of time with the Dolphins and actually had alot of interaction. The Dolphin trainers seem to genuinely care about the dolphins and put their well being above all else which is nice to see. I have been to other swims that in comparison, exploit the dolphins a bit more for the customer so it was good to see people having to follow the rules on the Dolphins turf. Also nice, the trainer informed us that the dolphins are all there voluntarily, meaning they do take them (the Dolphins) out into the open water and they can leave if they want, which I think is a definite plus. A great program and very good trainers. A definite must do!!
