Curacao is slowly making a name in the tourism industry. People from around the world visit Curacao because of its unique beauty and crystal clear beaches. Because of this, tourism in Curacao plays a vital role in their economy. The Tourism Board of Curacao makes sure that all efforts are exhausted in promoting tourism to the North American and European markets. With this, their tourism annual budget is ever increasing.

With the assistance of the Dutch government, traffic from North America has increased by 8% within six months alone (January to August of 2003). Hotels and recreation facilities flourished throughout Curacao, as the demand in tourism increased. Curacao’s tourists are mostly compose of Europeans, South Americans, and their Caribbean neighbors. Now, Curacao is attracting tourists from different parts of the globe, mostly, from the United States and Canada. Now there are over half a million visitors annually (of which over 300,000 are from cruise ships.). Though not really promoting mass market, the Curacao Tourism Board (CTB) is aiming to double its North American visitors (from 40,000 to 80,000 annually.).

Even with this increase in tourism, the Curacao tourism industry is far from what we call a fully developed one. Thus, the Curacao Tourism Board is working hard to make Curacao competitive in the world of tourism. They put up many projects that will attract tourists and boost their economy. One of these many projects is the modernization of the Curacao Airport (Hato International Airport). With the awareness of a new tourism industry, hotel recreational facilities in Curacao are developing increasingly, making themselves competitive with the rest of the world.

Perhaps one of the main factors of Curacao’s boost in tourism is its uniqueness from most of the other Caribbean destinations. Curacao gives a different experience, very rich in its historical and cultural heritage, and is known to be the best diving spot in the world. Though underdeveloped, it offers a great quality of life.

With its breathtaking diving spots, magnificent landmarks, and world famous festivities, where else can you find all these but in Curacao. So if you want to indulge in great culture, Curacao is your best choice of destination. You’ll never go wrong with the amazing deals most resorts and recreational facilities have to offer. As most tourists who have been to Curacao said, Curacao is truly a once in a lifetime experience.