Fact about Curaçao

Fact about Curaçao

Geography
Curacao is an island in the southern Caribbean Sea, some 40 miles off the coast of Venezuela. The capital is Willemstad. It has an area of 444 square kilometers (171 square miles). It is part of the five-island country the Netherlands Antilles.

History
After indians had inhabited Curaçao for many centuries, the Spanish claimed it in 1499. The Dutch took power in 1634 and have retained it ever since. Curacao was a hub for the slave trade until its abolition in 1863. In the early 20th century, oil processing became the island’s main business and caused an influx of workers from all over the world. In 1954, Curacao gained (limited) self-government. In recent years, the island has been successfully expanding its tourism industry, international financial and business services and other economic sectors (among other industries).

Politics
The Netherlands Antilles is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The Queen of the Netherlands is the official head of state and is represented in the Netherlands Antilles by a Governor. The Netherlands Antilles has a central and an island government. Both are democratically elected every four years. The Dutch government is responsible for national defense and activities related to foreign affairs.

Economy
The major pillars of the Curacao economy are tourism, logistics (transport sector), e-commerce, international financial services, and oil processing. GDP per capita is USD 17,425 (2003).

Population
137.094 people (as of January 2007) composed of 40-50 different nationalities.

Climate
The average temperature is 28° C (76°F). There is not much rainfall and a high humidity (84%) due to the constant northeastern breeze. The island lies well out of the hurricane zone.

Languages
Dutch (official) and Papiamentu. Many speak English and Spanish as well.

Currency
Netherlands Antilles guilder (ANG), which is pegged to the US dollar at ANG 1.79.
Major credit cards, US dollars and Euros are widely accepted.

Utilities
The electrical current in Curacao is 110 – 130 volts AC, 50 cycles. The tap water is distilled seawater and perfectly safe for drinking.

Time zone
GMT –4/Atlantic Standard Time.

Entry Requirements
Canadian and US citizens: valid passport or proof of citizenship and an onward or return ticket.
Most other nationalities: only a valid passport. (A visa is required for citizens of Cuba, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Haiti and some other countries.)
You are not allowed to stay longer than 3 months or work on Curacao without a work or residence permit.