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Curacao
diving is unique for many reasons. It is set apart from
other Caribbean destinations by its diversity and its density
of sea life, its many underwater landscapes, and its reef's
proximity to shore. Reefs surround the island, attaching
to the shore like a narrow fringe. Massive coral formations
extend into the depths with deep-water fish patrolling the
plunging walls. The reef walls on Curacao vary from moderate
45 degree angles to steep 90 degree angles. There is plenty
to see, be it dolphins playing, turtles sunning, or even
pilot whales migrating.
Even the most experienced diver will find the fish life
of Curacao entertaining. even sometimes dramatic. Instead
of exploring the whole reef in one dive, choose one coral-covered
spot and just float above the coral heads and watch life
go on. There are over 500 species of fish inhabiting these
Caribbean reefs, so you are sure to see plenty of activity.
Climate Summer 85F 29C Winter 75F 24C
Water Temp 78 - 83F 25 -28C Visibility 50 - 100 ft 15 -
30 m
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Dive
Services & Accommodations
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Ban
Topa Apartments & Villa's Curacao
Kaya Kashimiri 59
Curacao
Netherlands Antilles
Tel.: 00 5999 8695670
E-Mail:
info@bantopa.nl
Web: http://www.bantopa.nl
Ban Topa offers affordable 2, 3 and 4 room apartments,
bungalows and villa’s with a nice view, cool breeze,
sea and the Capital city Willemstad within reach.
Diving,
fishing and golf are available with discounts. |
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International
Accommodations - Curacao Villas
Willem de Zwijgerlaan 13
Emmastad
Curacao
Netherlands Antilles
Tel.: 5999-736-2030
Fax.: 5999-736-6616
E-Mail: intac@carib-online.net
Web: http://www.curacao-villas.com
a selection of waterfront homes at Coral Cliff, Curacao.
Homes have ocean view and are just a short walk from beach
and dive school. Both shore diving and boat diving is
possible at this location through Sunset Divers at Sunset
Waters Resort. Select from 2, 3, or 5 bedroom villas. |
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Travel
To Curacao
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By
Air
There are a number of airlines which service Curacao, allowing
travel any day of the week.
DCA
From Miami: Daily
From Venezuela and Other Caribbean Destinations: Daily
From Holland twice a week
Aeropostal
American
Airlines
From Miami with connection to most major US cities
American
Eagle
Daily from San Juan Puerto Rico
Air
Jamaica
Easy Same-Day connections from 12 U.S. Gateways
Avianca
KLM
From Amsterdam: Daily
Martinair
From Amsterdam: Tuesday & Thursday
Servivensa
Airlines
Sobelair
From Brussels in cooperation with van der Valk Travel: every Wednesday
Entry Requirements
US and Canadian citizens need either a valid passport, or proof
of citizenship in the form of an original birth certificate accompanied
by photo ID, and an onward or return ticket. Most other nationals
need only a passport. Visitors from the Dominican Republic, Colombia
and Haiti require a visa. You will need to apply for a resident
permit if you plan to stay for longer than three months. You are
not allowed to work or live on Curacao without a work permit.
Departure Tax
An airport tax of U.S.$ 20.00 per person for international flights
and flights to Aruba, or U.S. $10.00 per person for inter-island
flights is payable when leaving the island.
Helpful Travel
Tips
Electricity
Electricity is 110 - 130 volts/50 cycles, similar but not identical
to the US standard. Most 60 cycle electrical appliances from the
United States will function properly, although appliances that
have internal time mechanisms will not keep the correct time and
hairdryers and curling irons may overheat if used for too long.
Dual voltage appliances from Europe and South America will need
an adapter plug, readily available on the island. Although electrical
current is generally reliable, consider using a surge regulator
for sensitive electronic devices and computers. It's a good idea
to charge underwater strobes and videos on the regulated systems
at dive shops and photo centers.
Taxis
Taxi's are easy to recognize by their signs and the TX on their
registration plates. The prices are based for 1-4 people from
6 am-11pm. A fifth person costs 25% more. After 11pm there is
25% surcharge. Passengers should agree on a price for the journey
with the driver first. There are taxi stands at the airport, hotels
and Sha Caprileskade in Punda.
Rental Cars
Avis, Hertz, National, Budget and a number of local companies
are available. There are a choice of models available and rates
range from about $25. for a compact to $45. for a jeep.
Dress
Temperatures are warm throughout the year, so light, casual tropical
wear is in order. Remember to protect yourself from sunburn. Most
indoor establishments are air conditioned so if you chill easily,
you may need a lightweight jacket or long sleeves. Some restaurants
prohibit shorts or sandals; some casinos also require jackets
for men. Overly revealing clothes and bathing suits are not appropriate,
except on the beach. If you plan to walk in the countryside, wear
sturdy shoes and long pants to protect your legs from the cacti.
Water
Curacao distills water from the sea and it is excellent. No problems
here. |
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