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Curacao: Pix's, Fun, Experiences Feb./2015!


TLCOhio
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From February 13, 2015, our morning "adventure" involved visiting Willemstad, Curacao and their nearby Sea Aquarium. We did all three of the "Dutch ABC", but we did it in the order of CAB. Below are the first of a number of different visuals that I was able to capture to reflect the fun and interesting locations seen and experienced on this island. Many more details on the full live/blog connected below.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 29,023 views for these postings.

 

 

Enjoyed our day in Willemstad, Curacao. Fun sail-in with their unique, floating, wooden bridge, etc. Below are a couple of quick visuals from their main downtown buildings with their colorful Dutch-style, plus where our ship sits with their big bridge in the background.:

 

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Below are a few pictures from visiting their Sea Aquarium. First, some cute flamingos. Lots of action, focus on keeping themselves looking great. Wonderful to see this creatures so "up close and personal"!!:

 

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Here is more from Curacao and their nearby Sea Aquarium. It was developed directly on the oceanfront with a healthy coral reef close to the entrance. This aquarium complex is unique because of its "open-water-system". That means sea water is continuously pumped into the aquaria. During the feeding shows you can learn about the animals. For an added fee, you can snorkel or scuba dive and hand feed stingrays, sea turtles, sharks and many other colorful tropical fish. It was fun getting lots of interesting pictures here.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at 121,027 views for this posting.

 

 

And, now some from the fun and interesting dolphin show. Very smart animals to be able do so many different tricks, etc. Great work by the trainers!:

 

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Here are some sea lions, birds, etc. Personally, we would, ideally, prefer just these fine creatives in pure nature, but this was a nice start for these three Dutch ABC islands.:

 

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Here are a few more visuals from Curacao. Will later have later some added sights of the special wooden, floating bridge, its lighting at night, etc.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Did a June 7-19, 2011, cruise from Barcelona that had stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Dozens of nice visuals with key highlights, tips, comments, etc. We are now at 204,337 views for this live/blog re-cap, including much on wonderful Barcelona. Check these postings and added info at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

 

 

When we then did a walk to a nearby beach area, we observed a couple different lizards. Not big, wild animals, but fun to see!:

 

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At this beach area, we were in the part with the yellow chairs and a few trees for a some shade.:

 

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As we sailed our from the beach/Sea Aquarium area, here is a view.:

 

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Plus, you have to love seeing the trees, coconuts, etc. We do not get these kind sights and fun in Central Ohio.:

 

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These four visuals from Curacao spotlight the Queen Emma Bridge. It is an interesting pontoon bridge crossing St. Anna Bay in Curaçao. The bridge is hinged and opens via two diesel engines turning propellers. The bridge was built in 1888 and was completely renovated in 1939. Originally it was a toll bridge. Today, the toll is no longer charged.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 29,083 views for these postings.

 

 

From Curacao, one of the really fun fascinations for me was walking across and watching the opening of the floating, wooden bridge in the downtown/port area. Very unique and interesting!! We also rode the ferry across on one of the times when this floating bridge was briefly closed to allow a ship, such as the one shown below, to exit their harbor area to the open seas. Also shown are that bridge in the day-time in context of their main downtown, historic buildings and another of my visuals to illustrate how things looked at night when the special lighting was on this bridge. Fun visit to Curacao!:

 

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Here are a number of different, added visuals from Curacao that had not been previously posted on my live/blog. Lots of fun on this island, with its architecture, style and design.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Super loved Dubrovnik!!! See more details and lots of great visual samples/examples at this link. Have had over 30,060 views on this posting and appreciate those who have tuned-in and dropped by.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1439227

 

 

In connection with the Queen Emma Bridge, here are some added and related visuals. First is an overview as it was opened to for our ship to pass as it was sailing in for its docking. Second is an example of the small shuttle boat that gets people across the channel when this bridge is moved to allow ships to sail in or out. Third shows from a higher angle as this shuttle boat was doing its docking.:

 

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Here are some added pictures from the Sea Aquarium with the dolphins, sea lions, etc. Fun to be there and see these animals perform, be so smart, etc.!!:

 

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In traveling by boat from our docked cruise ship to the Sea Aquarium/beach area, we got to sample more on this island. Our boat guide shared much on Curacao and its business development. We saw lots of commerce and refinery operations during the sail-in and turn-around to get ready for our arrival. Plus, we learned about how this island is a key technology base, hosting many "cloud" data storage and maintenance operations.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

If Venice is one of your future desires or past favorites, look at this earlier posting for many options and visual samples this city that is so great for "walking around", personally seeing its great history and architecture. This posting is now at 54,341 views.

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

 

 

Here are some added views, shots and angles from our time being around in Curacao. Second is a new high-rise building constructed around an older, historic fort site at the entrance to their harbor. Our Silver Cloud cruise ship is shown near the high-rise bridge that cross the channel where ship come to unload a the commercial docking and refinery areas.:

 

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Below are a couple more pictures, plus below are a number of different tips, suggestions, ideas, etc., on this island from various cruise lines and travel resources.

 

Hope these are of help. Let me know any questions, comments, reactions. PLUS, don not be shy with your sharing here of pictures and experiences to help those in planning their upcoming visits here. Or, to refresh our memories from being here.

 

From Seabourn website:

Delightful Willemstad is the capital of the five-island Netherlands Antilles, which in turn are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Gabled buildings bring to mind Dutch cities, while working windmills dot the countryside, helping to provide the island with much-needed fresh water. Two bridges connect Otrobanda and Punda, the city's two halves. The Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge, now exclusively a foot bridge, was built in 1888. The imposing Queen Juliana Bridge arches over the channel, providing the link for motor vehicles. Shoppers will find no shortage of temptations here, while those so inclined will find excellent scuba diving opportunities.

 

From Crystal website:

Willemstad, the capital of Curaçao, is characterized by story-book Dutch architecture, waterfront promenades, fine shopping and a colorful floating market. Located in the southern Caribbean, just 38 miles north of Venezuela,*a harmonious blend of Dutch, Caribbean, African and South American cultures makes Willemstad unique among the Caribbean ports of call.

 

From Frommers/Best Snorkeling:

Curaçao Underwater Marine Park (Curaçao)

In contrast to Curaçao's arid terrain, the marine life that rings the island is rich and spectacular. The best-known snorkeling sites, in the Curaçao Underwater Marine Park, stretch for 20km (12 miles) along Curaçao's southern coastline, and there are many other highly desirable sites as well. Sunken ships, gardens of hard and soft coral, and millions of fish are a snorkeler's treat.

 

From USA Today: Alice in Wonderland

Curacao is among the top snorkeling and diving spots in the Caribbean because of its marine life populations and its reefs that are particularly close to land. The reef surrounds this entire island in the Leeward Antilles and has many good places to enter. But none is better than the one on the northern shore with the memorable name. Alice in Wonderland is the name given to a spot otherwise known as Playa Kalki. Limestone cliffs surround this small cove and the beach has nothing to offer in the way of amenities. But it has everything for sun worshipers and snorkeling or diving enthusiasts. An entry point is marked with a buoy and there are likely to be lots of other explorers in the water with you. With visibility of at least 100 feet you will have lots of opportunity to see green moray eels, lobsters, reef fish and beautiful star coral formations.

 

Curacao Underwater Marine Park

Along the southern coastline of Curacao is the 12-mile long Curacao Underwater Marine Park, one of Curacao’s most popular attractions and one of the best-known snorkeling sites in the Caribbean. So what makes Curacao Underwater Marine Park a snorkeler’s paradise? Well sunken ships, vast coral gardens, tropical fish galore, schools of nurse sharks, underwater labyrinths and variety of exotic marine life for starters. There are marked trails and signs setup to help snorkelers find their way and identify what they’re seeing. And while you can snorkel right off the shore in most locations, to reach some of the best snorkeling spots requires a boat ride.

From: http://www.caribbeantraveler.com/snorkeling

 

Lonely Planet:

A medium-sized island with a focus beyond tourism. The main city of Willemstad has a justifiably famous, beautiful and historic harbor. Isolated beaches scattered about offer a few watery pleasures. Best for: Off-the-beaten track wanderings, urban rambles

 

From Frommers:

Because much of the island's surface is an arid desert that grows only cactus, its canny Dutch settlers ruled out farming and made Curaçao (Coo-ra-sow) into one of the Dutch empire's busiest trading posts. Until the post-World War II collapse of the oil refineries, Curaçao was a thriving mercantile society with a capital (Willemstad) that somewhat resembled Amsterdam and a population with a curious mixture of bloodlines, including African, Dutch, Venezuelan, and Pakistani. The main language here is Papiamento, a mixture of African and European dialects, though Dutch, Spanish, and English are also spoken. Tourism began to develop during the 1980s, and many hotels have been built since then. The island has a few interesting historic sights, and Willemstad is one of the most charming towns in the Caribbean. If you're choosing among the Dutch ABC islands, go to Aruba for beaches and gambling, Bonaire for scuba diving, and Curaçao for little cove beaches, shopping, history, and its distinctive "Dutch in the Caribbean" culture.

 

From Travel+Leisure:

With a population made up of more than 50 nationalities, Curaçao’s food scene is incredibly diverse. Restaurants run the gamut from French and Dutch to Brazilian, Indonesian, and Japanese. Local krioyo (Creole) specialties include yuana (stewed iguana), keshi yená (stuffed cheese), and kokada (coconut patties). Willemstad, the island capital, combines fine dining and Dutch Colonial architecture, especially in the restored Kura Hulanda compound with its delectable alfresco eateries.

Local Favorite: Blues Restaurant at the Avila Hotel.

 

FROM CRUISE CRITICS

Willemstad, Curacao: Curacao’s cosmopolitan capital has it all — duty free-shopping, brilliant food and, perhaps most importantly, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

Curacao: With so much located near the port, you can squeeze a number of activities into a single day with a combination excursion. Take a scenic island tour to visit the famous Hato Caves with their underground grottos and waterfalls, and the Curacao Museum to see art and artifacts. Continue on to Chobolobo, a country estate where the island's namesake Curacao liqueur is distilled (and try a sample of the blue drink). Tours end in town, where you can opt for a snack, shopping or a drink accompanied by live music at an open-air bar.

 

From Cruise Critic website:

The brightly hued island of Curacao, 42 miles east of Aruba, is part of the ABC chain of islands, which also includes Aruba and Bonaire. Legend says that an early governor suffered from migraines and mandated the pastel-colored houses, now a trademark of the Southern Caribbean island, because white paint aggravated his condition. Whatever the reason, there's something wonderful about approaching by cruise ship and spotting buildings in shades like cotton-candy pink and deep, ocean-blue.

 

Curacao was discovered by Spaniards in 1499 and was taken over in 1634 by the Dutch, who settled its capital city, Willemstad, as a naval base. The city drew Dutch and Jewish merchants (old Jewish neighborhoods -- like Scharloo, north of Willemstad -- still exist), and there's still a distinctly Dutch feel in the centuries-old buildings that line the waterfront in all those fantastic colors.

 

Willemstad, where cruise ships dock, is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with waterfront shops and cafes. It's walkable and always warm, but never stiflingly hot, thanks to constant, breezy trade winds. The city is split into two districts -- one on each side of a narrow but deep channel, traversable by a landmark floating pedestrian bridge. Beyond Willemstad, Curacao is rife with opportunities to dive and swim, with more than 35 uncrowded beaches.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at 121,293 views for this posting.

 

 

Here are a couple of added views from their main downtown.:

 

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Hi, Terry. I'm also from NE Ohio. I was wondering what beach you were at with the yellow chairs and if it was close to the ship.

 

Greetings to our "neighbor" in NE Ohio. That beach was located right nearby to where the Sea Aquarium is located. It is called Mambo Beach. As a part of our cruise excursion, we had a smaller ship that took us out to both locations and gave us a chance to see some of the various sights going there and then coming back along the coastal areas.

 

One of the reviews on TripAdvisor says of Mambo Beach: "Beautiful beach with cool rocks to swim out to and climb on. Plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants!"

 

You can get there via a rental car, a cab and/or potential public transportation if you have patience. It is about four and a half miles SE from where cruise ships dock and/or the main downtown. There is a small charge for this beach and/or its chairs. That was included as a part of our ship's excursion. One of the nicest pluses are its palm trees and not being too crowded. At least that was our day's successful results.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 186,397 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

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thank you for the pictures. We stop there on our cruise in November. The colors are gorgeous. What part of NE Ohio? My husband is from Ashtabula.

 

Glad to hear that you enjoyed Curaçao and its wonderful color, architecture, etc. Last summer, we passed nearby to your location as a suburb of Denver. Did lots of touring in Colorado last July with friends in Colorado Springs. This includes being in Denver, Boulder, Crested Butte, etc. Have been in Ashtabula several times, but it is three hours from Columbus where we live.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Did a June 7-19, 2011, cruise from Barcelona that had stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Dozens of nice visuals with key highlights, tips, comments, etc. We are now at 205,291 views for this live/blog re-cap, including much on wonderful Barcelona. Check these postings and added info at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

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  • 3 weeks later...
  • 4 weeks later...
Wonderful photo review. Have been to Curacao many times (our favorite port in the Caribbean) and always enjoy hearing (and seeing) the experience of others who visit. Thank-you.

 

Appreciate, April, so much your nice comments and follow-up. Glad to know you have so much experience in visiting here. We'd like to go back to the Caribbean, but we are now a little over two months for departing for another/different adventure. This time will a first for us in doing Africa. It will include Cape Town, sailing along the South Africa coast to Mozambique, then Victoria Falls and Botswana, etc.

 

From the USA Today newspaper Friday, they have this headline: "Readers' Choice: Best of the Caribbean" with these highlights: "The Caribbean is a diverse region filled with adventure, bold flavors, shopping opportunities and plenty of places to party. We asked readers to name the best for adventure, food, golf, shopping and nightlife. For the past four weeks, readers have been voting daily and the results are in!"

 

Willemstad and Curacao did very well!! In both the golf and nightlife categories, Curacao was ranked as third best for all of the Caribbean. Willemstad, Curacao was listed as fifth for both food and shopping. As noted earlier, we very much loved our day in and around Willemstad with its excellent range/offerings of activities, size, style, people, architecture and character.

 

Full story at:

http://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/destinations/2015/11/13/10best-readers-choice-caribbean-winners/75722646/

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 32,319 views for these postings.

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  • 3 weeks later...

From Travel Weekly last month, they have this headline: "An island rich with colorful history".

 

Here is one of the key highlights from this profile: "Legend has it that the architect who built the Dutch colonial houses long ago in the style of the narrow houses along Amsterdam's canals initially had them painted white. However, the combination of the sun reflecting off the white buildings and the sparkling waters of the St. Anna Bay gave the architect a headache. 'Paint the houses in colors,' he was reported to have ordered his workers. Today, those sherbet-colored buildings are Willemstad's most photographed attraction and make Curacao's capital city the most recognizable in the Caribbean. "

 

In this article there are a number of other fun, interesting items that can build up the excitement for visiting Curacao. Another interesting item? "There is nothing monochromatic about Curacao. Colors are everywhere, from the fishing boats at the Floating Market and the fish themselves, glistening in ice-filled trays, to the vegetables and fruits in vendors' stalls, murals on the sides of buildings and signage at the beach bars, illustrating fruit and rum concoctions."

 

Full story at:

http://www.travelweekly.com/Caribbean-Travel/An-island-rich-with-colorful-history

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at 128,069 views for this posting.

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  • 4 weeks later...

From this New Jersey newspaper and their travel section earlier this month, they have this headline: "colorful side of Curacao".

 

Here is an important aspect of these highlights: "If you've ever been to or seen photos of Curaçao, you've noticed a distinct feature: the brightly colored buildings that line the bank of Sint Anna Bay in the capital Willemstad. The beautiful buildings of traditional Dutch architecture are painted in vivid hues of blue, gold, green, pink, teal and yellow with crisp white trim and greet tourists, merchants and cruise ship visitors. Our guide, Clarita Hagenaar, a 72-year-old Curaçao native, explained and why Curaçao is so colorful. The story is that a 19th-century governor of the island complained of headaches caused by the bright sun reflecting off the white buildings. He ordered that all buildings be painted any color but white. Legend has it that he also had a stake in the only paint company on the island."

 

The writer also raises this question and gives an answer: "So why pick Curaçao over another Caribbean island? Most vacationers go to the Caribbean for two reasons: the beach and the water. Curaçao has all that and then some. The island boasts 38 beaches — some long stretches, some just cool little alcoves."

 

FYI Tips/Background from this media profile:

* Language: The official language is Dutch, but English is widely spoken. The locals speak Papiamentu, a combination of Dutch, Portuguese, English, Spanish and African languages.

* Common phrases: Bon bini (welcome), bon dia (good morning), dushi (nice, great, wonderful).

* Water: Tap water is safe to drink.

* Currency: National currency is the Netherlands Antillean guilder. U.S. dollars are widely accepted.

* Climate: Arid and dry, low humidity, trade winds from the east. Average yearly temperature is 82. Total annual rainfall is 22 inches.

 

Full story at:

http://www.northjersey.com/travel/the-colorful-side-of-curacao-1.1473006?page=all

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

If Venice is one of your future desires or past favorites, look at this earlier posting for many options and visual samples this city that is so great for "walking around", personally seeing its great history and architecture. This posting is now at 55,705 views.

Venice: Loving It & Why??!!

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1278226

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  • 2 months later...

To update for those interested in exciting visuals and different locations, we are back safely from four weeks in South Africa, Botswana, etc.

 

We enjoyed great sights, many safari/animal experiences and wonderful adventure times!! Lots of pictures on my live/blog and this trip detailing can be seen at:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

 

Now over 10,300 views for this reporting that includes Cape Town, all along the South Africa coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Delta area with lions, leopards, cape buffalo, elephants, giraffes, hippos, etc., etc.

 

Ohio was not too bad for the time while we traveled below the Equator this year, but the weather for these southern parts of Africa was much warmer and sunnier than what we would have experienced in the Midwest during these challenging winter periods.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Enjoyed a 14-day, Jan. 20-Feb. 3, 2014, Sydney to Auckland adventure, getting a big sampling for the wonders of "down under” before and after this cruise. Go to:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1974139

for more info and many pictures of these amazing sights in this great part of the world. Now at nearly 138,000 views for this posting.

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  • 3 months later...

From Conde Nast Traveler magazine in late June, they have this headline: "Curaçao Is the Best Diving Spot You Don't Know About" with these highlights: "The ABC Islands are the common name for the Lesser Antilles in the Dutch Caribbean. A is for Aruba, which everyone has heard of. B is for Bonaire, which every serious diver has heard of. The C? Well, it usually leaves people scratching their heads. It stands for Curaçao, and if you dive you’ve got a new place to add to your list: think clear water, healthy coral ecosystems, and a wreck that will drop your jaw so low your regulator falls out. "

 

Lots of good and interesting pictures on this thread. Really builds up the interest for returning to the ABC's. Fun part of the world.

 

Full story at:

http://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2016-06-22/curacao-is-the-best-diving-spot-you-dont-know-about

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

For details and visuals, etc., from our July 1-16, 2010, Norway Coast/Fjords/Arctic Circle cruise experience from Copenhagen on the Silver Cloud, check out this posting. This posting is now at 199,868 views.

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1227923

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  • 1 month later...
Is this a floating bridge? Is it possible to access the bridge in a mobility scooter? Thank you.

 

On these CC boards, this above question came up and I thought I would post my response here. Yes, this is a floating bridge. Very unique and interesting!! Really enjoying seeing it, knowing its history, how it operated, etc. From our walking across this bridge, as I recall, it is covered with wood planking and is reasonably smooth. Like many pavements, roadways, sidewalks, etc., I am not saying that everything is perfectly "perfect", but it would seem that things should work out reasonably well in crossing this bridge with such a mobility scooter. I pulled out some of my pictures and you can see one visual below to illustrate the wooden nature of its covering and structure.

 

As noted earlier, the bridge is hinged and opens via two diesel engines turning propellers. The bridge was built in 1888 and was completely renovated in 1939. Originally it was a toll bridge. Today, the toll is no longer charged.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 41,824 views for these postings.

 

 

When the Queen Emma Pontoon Bridge was opened to allow our cruise ship to enter the port here, this was the closer view of this wooden structure with its supporting pontoons under its supporting trusses, etc.:

 

TravelSept161_zpsfki7gqjb.jpg

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  • 1 month later...
WOW! Great pics! Thanks

 

Appreciate this above nice and kind comment on my pictures. The credit goes to the charm and beauty of this lovely island.

 

From the UK's BBC broadcast network in late August, they have this headline: "Living in the ABC islands" with these highlights: "Their shared Dutch colonial history and West Indian heritage, plus their fortuitous location outside of the tropical hurricane belt, make these islands a coveted playground for snowbirds, sun seekers, avid windsurfers and scuba divers. The islands have varied terrain, pristine beaches, coral reefs and an off-the-beaten-path vibe that attract low-key globetrotters."

 

There are many details, visuals and other background regarding these three islands, comparing their options/potentials, etc. For Curaçao, it is the largest of the three islands and has: "the biggest population and one of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean due to its well-developed oil refining business and other industries. The capital Willemstad, settled in 1634, is the financial and commercial centre of life on the island, as well as a Unesco World Heritage Site, thanks to its well-preserved, cotton-candy-coloured Dutch Colonial architecture and buildings like the Mikve Israel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in use in the Western Hemisphere. Curacao’s history of slavery can be seen in the countryside’s plantations. The secluded beaches on the western coast of the island, from Willemstad north to Westpunt, are popular for snorkelling and sunbathing."

 

Full BBC story at:

http://www.bbc.com/travel/story/20120821-living-in-the-abc-islands

 

Based on our visits to all three islands, here are my posts with many pictures and details for these three different islands. See more at:

Aruba: Pix's, Fun, Experiences Feb./2015:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2262154

 

Bonaire: Pix's, Fun, Experiences Feb./2015:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2262075

 

Curacao: Pix's, Fun, Experiences Feb./2015:

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2263377

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 43,728 views for these postings.

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Hi Terry...you give such detail and some much info....the pictures are great too! I will have to go to Africa thru your trip!!!! Thanks for your time it took to do all of the reviews!

 

Appreciate this very nice follow-up and kind comments from this Florida resident. Hope you have survived the storms there earlier this month.

 

Yes, hope you get a chance to review my reports and pictures from our Africa "adventure". Let me know any questions. Would love to hear your suggestions for improving these postings and how to make them more helpful. Starting to plan and prepare for an early 2017, 15-day cruise doing a Panama Canal, Ft. Lauderdale to San Francisco sailing. This would be our first time for visiting Columbia, Panama Canal, Central America, Mexico, etc.

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

Did a June 7-19, 2011, cruise from Barcelona that had stops in Villefranche, ports near Pisa and Rome, Naples, Kotor, Venice and Dubrovnik. Dozens of nice visuals with key highlights, tips, comments, etc. We are now at 217,727 views for this live/blog re-cap, including much on wonderful Barcelona. Check these postings and added info at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1426474

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  • 3 months later...

From the Chicago Tribune on Jan. 6, they have this headline: "Celebrate Carnival in the Caribbean" with these highlights: "Carnival is about over-the-top, shed-your-inhibitions fun. Like Mardi Gras, it's traditionally a last chance for excess before the solemn season of Lent for Catholics. The annual bash is practically synonymous with Rio de Janeiro. But it's also a big deal in the Caribbean, which, despite popular belief, isn't one homogeneous destination. Each Caribbean island has its own history, cuisine, culture — and its own take on Carnival. On some islands, the event is tied to Catholic traditions. On others, it commemorates slave emancipation or the harvest."

 

Here are more details on: "Curacao: Feb. 26-28. The pounding beat of African tumba music fills the air at a Carnival that's lively but not as risque as the bashes on other islands. This is a Carnival you'd be comfortable taking the kids to. The Feb. 26 and 28 parades are a big deal. Some 60 marching groups stream down the streets of Willemstad, a capital city so picture-perfect, you'll think you've landed on the movie set for a quaint Caribbean island. Two good spots to enjoy the festivities are the Carnival Dome near the beginning of the parade route and the Carnival Tribune, near the end. Both have seating, music, food and drink. Curacao prides itself on making sure everyone can enjoy the party. Considered one of the Caribbean's most gay-friendly destinations, it has hotels catering to gay tourists and an annual gay pride parade."

 

Another "insider tip" in this profile? Here it is: "When it's time to eat, head to the food stalls of Plasa Bieu, also known as the Old Market. Sample the popular goat stew or traditional tutu, a dish of ground-up beans with sugar and other goodies."

 

As detailed in my full live/blog, we were very fortunate to hit a nice and wide variety of Carnival experiences in Bonaire, Dominica and St. Barts. That was one of our top highlights for being in the Caribbean at this sunny time of the year.

 

Full story at:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/travel/sc-where-to-celebrate-carnival-caribbean-travel-0110-20161230-story.html

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

AFRICA?!!?: Lots of interesting and dramatic pictures can be seen from my latest live/blog at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2310337

Now at 25.339 views for this reporting and visual sharing that includes Cape Town, all along the South Africa coast, Mozambique, Victoria Falls/Zambia and Botswana's famed Okavango Delta area.

 

 

Here are two of my pictures from the Carnival parade on Sunday afternoon in Bonaire. It was suppose to start at 2 pm. BUT, as our destination speaker Cory Sandler noted, he had the "cover" by saying it would be a "Caribbean Time"!!! starting schedule. That actually meant a timing that started closer to around 3:30-4 pm. Both Cory and I had to move forward up that routing in order to get some pictures as things in the parade/festival moved very, very slow. It was such total fun to be here to sample these festivities. We really got a feel for some of the "real people" who live here and how they like to enjoy, celebrate, etc.:

 

BonaireA2_zpsi93g1r8h.jpg

 

 

BonaireA4_zpstgdnrpet.jpg

 

 

Here is my wife in Bonaire getting her picture captured with the "KING" of this segment of their Carnival parade group. Are people having fun? The facial expressions summarize the enjoyment perfectly!:

 

BonaireA3_zpscmazjlqd.jpg

 

 

Here are two photo samples from Dominica's wonderful Carnival parade and celebration during our February 15 visit. One of the super big pluses was having it done and twisting in and around their old, historic area of their downtown. So much unique history to bring back there from the "old days" feel that was apart of this island's past.:

 

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Here is one item of photo proof for the loud, loud drum action as the parade/procession was starting with the "straw statute" to go to the beach on St. Barts. It was great fun and a super experience to capture samples from these different Carnival examples at three different Caribbean islands. Each location was varied and very special in their own ways.:

 

StMaartBartsA18_zpsihfxkt9p.jpg

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From the London/UK Daily Mail and National Geographic today, they have this headline: "21 Best Beaches in the World" with these highlights: "Cas Abao Beach, Curaçao: Ringed by reefs, Curaçao hides a Caribbean underwater wonderland, and this beach is one of the few sandy ones on the arid island, with a bar and a shop to rent snorkel gear. Slip straight into the shallow crystalline bay alive with sea fans and coral, tropical fish, sponges, sea turtles, and more."

 

For Curaçao, unfortunately, we did not get a chance to snorkel here and/or visit this beach. Yes, this is a good reason to go back to this part of the Dutch ABC Islands. Love the below picture. Looks like great fun!!

 

Full stories at:

http://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/top-10/top-beaches-world/

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4139598/The-world-s-21-best-beaches-revealed.html

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 47,015 views for these postings.

 

 

This picture from the NG article showed snorkelers swimming with fish at Cas Abao Beach, Curaçao.:

 

cas-abao-beach-curacao.adapt.1900.1_zpsahylvlk2.jpg

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From the London/UK Daily Mail and National Geographic today, they have this headline: "21 Best Beaches in the World" with these highlights: "Cas Abao Beach, Curaçao: Ringed by reefs, Curaçao hides a Caribbean underwater wonderland, and this beach is one of the few sandy ones on the arid island, with a bar and a shop to rent snorkel gear. Slip straight into the shallow crystalline bay alive with sea fans and coral, tropical fish, sponges, sea turtles, and more."

 

For Curaçao, unfortunately, we did not get a chance to snorkel here and/or visit this beach. Yes, this is a good reason to go back to this part of the Dutch ABC Islands. Love the below picture. Looks like great fun!!

 

Full stories at:

http://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/top-10/top-beaches-world/

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4139598/The-world-s-21-best-beaches-revealed.html

 

THANKS! Enjoy! Terry in Ohio

 

From our Jan. 25-Feb. 20, 2015, Amazon River-Caribbean combo sailing over 26 days that started in Barbados, here is the link below to that live/blog. Lots of great visuals from this amazing Brazil river and these various Caribbean Islands (Dutch ABC's, St. Barts, Dominica, Grenada, etc.) that we experienced. Check it out at:

http://www.boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2157696

Now at 47,015 views for these postings.

 

 

This picture from the NG article showed snorkelers swimming with fish at Cas Abao Beach, Curaçao.:

 

cas-abao-beach-curacao.adapt.1900.1_zpsahylvlk2.jpg

I just wanted to let you know that all your hard work and research are still being appreciated. Headed for the first time to Curacao on January 21, 2018

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