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Learn More About Marine Life At Curacao Sea Aquarium

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If you want to know more about sea life and have a first hand experience in learning about it, then the best place to visit is the Curacao sea aquarium. Built in 1984 on Curacao island, the Curacao sea aquarium is a fresh seawater aquarium complete with natural marine species. Here you would not only be entertained, you will also learn about marine life through their events and shows which are mostly educational. Curacao sea aquarium is perfect for those who are passionate about marine life.

The Curacao sea aquarium is divided into several different themes. They have 46 aquariums with more than 400 sea species such as lobsters, sea horses and different kinds of fish. Other aquariums have coral reefs with special fish. This kind of marine life can only be seen 300 feet deep in the water. Other aquariums feature grass beds and mangroves. All the Curacao sea aquariums are filled with worms, bacteria, algae and other species to give the aquarium a natural balance.

There are several shows at Curacao sea aquarium that give visitors a chance to interact with other sea species. One of these is the Dolphin Academy, a main attraction, where you can enjoy being together with dolphins and sea lions. They have shows such as Dolphin Swim, Dolphin Encounter and Dolphin Dive. Animal Encounters is another event where you can dive with underwater animals such as turtles and sharks. Activities like open water dive, snorkel swim and sea lion dive should not be missed.

Kids will also have an enjoyable time at Curacao sea aquarium with the different activities designed for them. Some of these are the sea lion encounter, sea lion training experience, sea lion snorkel/swim, and snorkel club. There are also programs offered by the education department of Curacao Sea Aquarium where you can learn about coral reef ecology and marine biology. Dolphin programs like the dolphin swim and assistant trainer course are also taught at Curacao Sea Aquarium.

With all these activities, you will surely not get bored at Curacao Sea Aquarium. Whether you want to learn more about marine life or just want to be entertained, then it’s the place for you. It is designed for the whole family to enjoy. So why not go to Curacao Sea Aquarium on your next vacation and experience all the wonderful things it offers. The place is open everyday from 8:30am to 5:30pm. Entrance fees are $7.50 for children 5 to 12 years old and $15 for adults. Accommodation is not a problem since there are lots of resorts and hotels right next to the Curacao Sea Aquarium. 

 

Aloe Vera - Abundant in Curacao

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Curacao is known for being one of the top tourist destinations because of its beautiful beaches and scenic views. However, not many know that Curacao is also abundant with tropical plants such as Aloe Vera. This herbal medicine, which is famous around the world for its many healing properties, is also known as Curacao Aloe in Curacao, a testament of its abundance on the island. 

The Aloe Vera in Curacao can be traced back to ancient times. While the plant is said to be a native to the East and South Africa, it is also a big possibility that Aloe Vera in Curacao dates its existence as far back as in Africa due to the similarity in their climate. There is a huge Aloe Vera plantation in Curacao which is one of the highlights of a tourist itinerary. Also known as CurAloe Ecocity, this plantation gives the tourist a feeling of great bonding with the environment’s most popular natural healer. The plantation is being well-maintained for the development of Aloe products. 

Generally, Aloe Vera is a safe and natural remedy for many illnesses. Externally, it can be applied to the skin to remove any blemishes. This is proven by the fact that there are lotions that contains Aloe Vera which promise to give soft and smooth skin. It also restores damaged skin tissues resulting from burns and sores. 

Internally, Aloe Vera is said to relieve stomach pains and cure serious illnesses like kidney disorders or enlargement of the liver. There is even a story that said that Aloe Vera was used to preserve the body of Jesus Christ. Whether it is true or not, the effectiveness of Aloe Vera as an herbal medicine is already widely proven. 

Like any other Aloe Vera, the Aloe Vera in Curacao is being processed into a number of different forms. Most popular are the gel, ointment, lotions, Aloe drink, and Aloe powder. These Aloe Vera products have been widely accepted all over the world, including the US, considering its safety and efficacy. In some other countries, Aloe Vera products are recognized as an over-the-counter medicine. 

Considering the usefulness of the Aloe Vera plant, Curacao is greatly contributing to the people around the world by providing an abundant supply of Aloe Vera. Having natural healing properties, Aloe Vera is the answer to a cheap and natural way to cure illnesses, and Curacao is doing their part in making sure that Aloe Vera will be utilized to its fullest extent.

 

Diving without a Boat? Experience it in Curacao

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Want to experience diving in a different way? Then go to Curacao! Do you know that there you can dive without the need for a boat? Yes, unlike the other diving spots in the world, in Curacao you don’t have to worry about a cattle boat. You can just walk to a diving spot, and dive from there. How is this possible? 

This uniqueness of diving in Curacao is because of the characteristics of the sea floor of Curacao. It drops off very steeply just over a few hundred feet from the shore, also known by the locals as “blue edge”. This is the reason why a boat is not needed. However, there are diving spots in other parts of Curacao that can only be reached by boat. For instance off the southern coast of the island, the water is remarkably calm, which is very much the opposite of the northern coast; strong currents, rocky shoreline and lack of beaches. Even though it is dangerous for diving and swimming, experienced divers often go there because of the beauty of the underwater life.

There are several diving locations to choose from in Curacao. The most frequented are the Airplane wreck; the name speaks for itself, Barracuda Point (where you can find lots of good sized barracuda) Basora, Piedra Pretu, Boka Grandi, Playa Mansaliña, Mike's Place & Playa Largu, Diver's Leap & Piedra Sombre (where you can swim with dolphins), and the Superior Producer; one of the top Curacao diving locations and one of the finest ship wrecks in the Caribbean. 

What makes Curacao great for divers is their protected marine life. Their government takes steps to ensure the natural beauty of the diving spot is preserved. They impose some restrictions to make sure this can be carried out. Spear fishing and breaking or removing shell or coral is strictly prohibited. 

As such, you can see different kinds of marine animals, like the manta, sting and spotted eagle rays, through its clear underwater visibility. There also are sea turtles, squids, and octopus if you want to see one. And if you want to be up close with dolphins, there is a dolphin academy where you will get the chance to interact, dive, or swim with dolphins. 

Curacao diving is surely an exciting adventure. For most water lovers, Curacao is one of the great places to be when it comes to diving. So go ahead and book that Curacao vacation!

Last Updated on Sunday, 25 February 2007 08:26
 

Have a Taste of Curacao’s Pride – the Curacao Liqueur

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Do you know that Curacao has a beverage that they can be proud of? This is the Curacao liqueur, an orange flavored liqueur that is well-known around the world. In fact, the Curacao liqueur is considered the international ambassador of the island. Its name is bigger than the Curacao island itself. So what is this Curacao liqueur and how it came to be such a big hit around the world? 

The Curacao liqueur is made from the dried peels of the bitter oranges or “Laraha” oranges that are found on the Caribbean, specifically the island of Curacao. Laraha is the cousin of the Valencia orange. The origin of Curacao liqueur started in 1499 when the Spaniards discovered Curacao.  They brought a plant with them, the “Valencia” orange, which is sweet and juicy. 

However, due to the climate of Curacao and its soil conditions, the fruit of the Valencia orange became bitter, almost inedible. With this result, the plan to cultivate Valencia oranges in Curacao was abandoned, and the plants were left to grow wild. Decades later, people in Curacao discovered that if the peels of the Valencia fruit were dried thoroughly under the sun, it would produce oil with a surprising pleasant fragrance. A recipe was then developed by a Jewish family (Senior family) in Curacao. The oil was mixed with various exotic spices. This is how the Curacao liqueur came to be. 

The Senior family made a huge investment to market the product and start a Curacao liqueur industry. Curacao liqueur has become a world success and with that many liquor manufacturers worldwide produced Curacao liqueur but with artificial flavors. The original Curacao liqueur is called “Curacao of Curacao” and has a clear color. It later changed, and is now available in various colors for cocktail purposes (blue, red, orange and green). These colored variants have the same taste as that of the original liqueur. However, the name Curacao liqueur is now generic and can be based on any white spirits. 

Today, the Curacao liqueur is available in different flavors. Many manufacturers around the world are now producing Curacao liqueur. The Mansion where the original Curacao liqueur was made is now considered a “Protected Monument” by the Curacao government. This mansion is called “Chobolobo Mansion” or “Country Estate”, and on its premises is a distillery of Curacao liqueur. You’ll not miss this place when you visit Curacao since this is one of the popular tourist attractions of the island.

Last Updated on Thursday, 05 April 2007 08:40
 

Renting a Car in Curacao

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Imagine going on a vacation without any idea how to get around the place. Most probably, you will end up staying in only one place and ruin your vacation.  A vacation is supposed to be exploring and touring the four corners of the place of your destination. That is why the mode of transportation is very important, as it can greatly affect the outcome of your vacation. 

Well, you don’t have to worry when you’re in Curacao. This famous and beautiful island destination has car rentals ready to take you anywhere on the island. World-renowned car rental companies are operating in Curacao, with their latest car models for you to choose from. They’ll pick you up from the airport upon your arrival, and take you to your destination. How comfortable can it get?

Here are some of these car rental companies ready to serve you in Curacao.

Star rent-a-car - provides free pickup services. Their places for pickup are Hato International Airport, SuperClubs Breezers, Van der Valk Plaza Hotel, and Pastoor Blommerdeweg. Contact them at these phone numbers (599-9) 4627111 and fax (599-9) 4628577. 

National/Alamo Car rental – aside from providing a luxurious car; it also offers something to drive for that countryside adventure. Places for pickup are Hato International Airport, F.D. Rooseveltweg 449, Van der Valk Plaza, Lions Dive, Marriot Beach Resort, and Floris Suite Hotel. Their contact numbers are (599-9) 8694433 and (599-9) 8690020. Email : This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Michel rent-a-car - the most affordable car rental in Curacao. With its free pickup services at the Hato International Airport, or F.D. Rooseveltweg 348, and all-risk insurance, this Curacao car rental company is a good choice. One may contact them at (599-9) 8888878 or thru their fax number (599-9) 8697190. 

Hertz Curacao - offers the latest car models with safety features. Pickup locations are at the Hato International Airport, F.D. Rooseveltweg, and SuperClub Breezes. Pickup and return services are considered additional services. For reservations and inquiries, one may call (599-9) 888-0088 or send a fax to (599-9) 8880588. 

Budget rent-a-car – as the biggest Curacao car rental company, it gives out a complimentary discount booklet valued at $600. Pickup locations are the Hato International Airport, F.D. Rooseveltweg, Avila Beach Hotel, Are Seaquarium, Livingstone Resort, Riffort Village, and Hilton. You may contact them at (599-9) 8683466 or (599-9) 8680644. 

Thrifty Curacao  - high fleet quality, it offers free pickup services. Locations are Hato International Airport and Salinja. Their phone number is (599-9) 4673089. 

It is advisable to book and make early reservations for these car rentals as they tend to become full, especially during peak seasons. This will also give you the chance to pick your favorite car model. Curacao has an emergency number you can call in case of car trouble or accident. It’s 199 for Curacao Road Service. Remember too, that Curacao drives on the right.

Last Updated on Tuesday, 23 January 2007 20:44
 
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