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Banks
Curaçao is an international banking centre, and a number of offshore companies have a presence there as well as the banks offering local retail services.
Banks are open Monday-Friday 8.30am-12pm and 1.30pm-3.30pm. ATM machines can be found all over the island at major populated areas and at the airport. To recognize an ATM machine, look for the signs ‘Bankomatico’ or ‘Geldautomaat’.
MCB Bank, Schottegatweg Oost 130, Saliña, t 466 1100
Banco de Caribe, Jan Noorduynweg, t 869 4444
RBTT Bank, Kaya Flamboyan 1, t 763 8438
Giro Bank, Jan Noorduynweg, t 869 2611
Central Bank, Simon Bolivar Plein 1, t 434 5500
Orco Bank, Dr H Fergusonweg 10, t 737 2000
SFT Bank, Schottegatweg Oost 44, t 732 2900 |
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Beaches
Most of Curaçao’s beaches are small and secluded, often cut into the cliffs of the island coastline and hidden away from the developed areas of the island. They usually do not have the crowds associated with many other islands in the Caribbean (except on the weekends and holidays). Note that on the north coast the sea is too rough for swimming.
Westpunt
The most westerly tip of Curaçao. Nice sand set beneath the cliffs, it has fantastic clear water.
Lagun Beach
Picturesque cove with calm water where small fishing boats stand at anchor. Excellent snorkelling in the shallow water near the shore. Manchioneel trees provide shade, but you should beware of their poisonous, apple-like fruits. A small snack bar is open on the weekend.
Daai Booi Bay
On the west coast, not far from St Wilibrordus. A small bay close to town with good snorkelling. Snack bar available all week. A small trail leads into the countryside on the west of the beach.
Vaarsen Bay
Scant sand, rocky entry and a lack of shade but a picturesque cove, west of Willemstad. Entrance to the water difficult for children but there is a play area, pier and a diving platform for strong swimmers. The beach is sometimes closed for private parties and occasionally there are public events with music. Seaside bar with a large covered terrace.
Seaquarium Beach
Right next door to the sea aquarium, east of Willemstad. Perfect place for children to play in the shallow water during the day but can get busy. Shops, several bars and facilities for all watersports. At night it becomes a crowded hotspot with the odd concert and even films on the beach.
Barbara Beach
Sandy expanse, very popular with Curaçaoans at the weekends. Bar and changing room facilities and a charge for car parking. Topless bathing is common.
Caracasbaai
Coarse sand and pebble beach popular amongst the locals. Good snorkelling in the calm waters. There are several small restaurants nearby.
Klein Curaçao
Curaçao's longest and whitest beach is actually on Klein Curaçao, an uninhabited island eight miles off the southeast coast. Dive operators and charter boats take passengers out to the island which offers superb diving. Klien Curaçao has no permanent inhabitants and the only things on the island are an old lighthouse, beach house, and several huts. |
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Casinos
Curaçao has a number of casinos, scattered between Piscadera Bay, Santa Marta, Selina, and Willemstad. Most of the casinos are located within resorts or hotels in Willemstad, and have an easy going, relaxed atmosphere.
Airport Hotel Holland & Casino, FD Rooseveltweg, t 888 1945
Americana Casino, Brionplein, t 462 7800
Breezes Curaçao, Dr M L King Blvd, t 461 1928
Emerald Casino, Piscadera Bay, t 433 7791
Hill Ross Casino, Groot Davelaarweg, t 737 8200
Hilton Casino, John F Kennedy Blvd, t 462 5000
Pelikaan Casino, Langestraat, t 462 3555
Punda Casino, Plaza Piar, t 461 2500 |
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Check In/Check Out
As a general rule check-out times are around 12 noon and check-in is not prior to 3pm, during which time the rooms are made ready for new arrivals. Some properties may provide a day room subject to availability or shower facilities so that you can use all your time before departure. If you will be arriving before the normal check-in time then they may be flexible by prior arrangement. You should make any special arrangements at the time of booking. |
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