Discover Willemstad, Curaçao

Where is Curaçao located & what country does it belong to?

Curaçao is a tropical island nation in the southern Caribbean Sea, just off the northern coast of South America. It is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, complete with its own Curaçao government, currency, and legal system but still shares defense and foreign relations with the Dutch state.

Willemstad sits in the heart of this Caribbean–European fusion, offering travelers a gateway to colonial architecture, blue bays, and cultural depth.

Who are the Curaçao People?

The Curaçao people are the island’s most treasured asset. Friendly, multilingual, and deeply proud of their heritage, they represent a unique blend of African, Dutch, Portuguese, Latin American, and Caribbean roots. With a total Curaçao island population of around 151,000, the community thrives on diversity and mutual respect.

Languages Spoken: Papiamentu, Dutch, English, Spanish

Ethnic Roots: Afro-Caribbean, Sephardic Jewish, Dutch, Latin American, East Indian.

Whether you're chatting with locals at a beach bar or learning a few Papiamentu phrases, every encounter is part of the experience.

History of Curaçao Island

The history of Curaçao spans indigenous Arawak roots, Spanish exploration, Dutch colonization, and African diaspora. Settled by the Dutch in 1634, Willemstad became a trade hub, especially during the Atlantic slave trade era.

Today, you can explore this history through:

• Kura Hulanda Museum – focusing on African and colonial heritage
• Queen Emma Bridge – a 19th-century floating pedestrian bridge
• Fort Amsterdam – once the center of Dutch colonial administration

These landmarks tell the story of Curaçao’s resilience and cultural blend, shaping the island’s identity today.

Curaçao Ethnic Groups

The island’s demographics reflect a population where Curaçao's ethnic groups coexist and collaborate. Locals proudly identify as Curaçao natives, with ancestral lines tracing back to West Africa, Europe, and South America.

The rich cultural tapestry is visible in:

• Traditional Carnival celebrations
• Local dishes like Keshi Yena and stoba
• Music blending Tumba, Salsa, and Tambú

Together, these influences create a vibrant identity that makes Curaçao one of the most unique and welcoming destinations in the Caribbean.

Things to Do in Willemstad

During your stay at TUI BLUE Curaçao in Santa Martha, explore the island's wild west:

• Santa Martha Lookout Point – stunning panoramic views of bays and hills
• Playa Lagun – swim in crystal-clear waters and spot sea turtles in their natural habitat
• Shete Boka National Park – dramatic coastline and crashing waves
• Christoffel National Park – hike to the island’s highest peak with stunning vistas
• Boat Day Trips – discover hidden beaches, snorkel spots, and the best of Curaçao from the sea

Whether you’re chasing adventure or simply making memories with loved ones, the Santa Martha location is the gateway to Curaçao’s wild beauty and unforgettable experiences.

Local Cuisine to Try

Experience a vibrant fusion of Dutch, Caribbean, and Creole flavors that reflect Curaçao’s rich cultural heritage. Be sure to try:

• Keshi Yena – a beloved dish made of spiced meat or chicken and vegetables stuffed in Dutch Gouda cheese.
• Pastechi – golden, deep-fried pastries filled with cheese, meat, tuna, or chicken, perfect as a quick snack on the go.
• Yuana Stoba – stewed iguana (yes, really!) served with funchi (cornmeal).
• Kadushi – traditional cactus soup, thick and green, flavored with herbs and spices. A nutritious and authentic taste of Curaçao.
  
  

From street food stalls to fine dining restaurants, Curaçao offers a culinary journey that is as diverse and colorful as the island itself.