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Country Guide > Caribbean > Curaçao | |
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Social Profile Food & Drink Traditional Dutch food (particularly using fresh seafood and cheeses) is popular, as well as the exciting flavours of Creole food (criollo) which also makes good use of the great variety of fresh fish. French, Italian and other international cuisines are also on offer. Restaurant styles vary from informal bistro to the very expensive. A wide variety of alcohol is available. ‘Curaçao’ liqueur, which is made from the sun-dried peel of a bitter orange and a mixture of spices is a popular local drink. Nightlife There are several discos run by hotels on the island and some hotels have a casino. Performances of drama and music can be found at the Centro Pro Arte. Shopping Curaçao (and other Netherlands Antilles islands) is a thriving centre for duty free shopping. An enormous range of imported goods are on sale at considerably reduced prices. Locally made curios are available for the tourist. A particularly popular souvenir is the ‘Curaçao’ liqueur (see Food & Drink section). Shopping hours: Mon-Sat 0800-1200 and 1400-1800. Hours may vary. Special Events For a complete list of special events, contact the Curaçao Tourism Development Bureau (see Contact Addresses section). The following is a selection of special events occurring in Curaçao in 2005: Feb Carnival (including Tumba Festival, Teener Parade, Banda Bou Parade and Grand Carnival Parade). Apr Great Seú March. May Annual Curaçao Jazz Festival. Aug Curaçao Salsa Festival. Oct Carribean Jazz Fest, Willemstad. Dec Festival of Lights; St Nicolas Day; Regatta, from St Barbara to St Anna Bay. Social Conventions The social influences are predominantly Dutch, combined with Indian and African traditions. Dress for men should include tropical lightweight suits for business appointments and formal wear for evening engagements. Similarly, women should take some evening wear, but dress for daytime is casual. Swimwear should be confined to the beach and poolside only. Tipping: Hotels add a 5 to 10 per cent government tax and a 12 per cent service charge. Bar staff, waiters, porters and doormen expect a 10 per cent tip. |