Discovered by Europeans in 1499, Curacao is the largest and the most prosperous Netherlands Antilles group. From nature lovers to die-hard adventure aficionados, this Caribbean island has a lot to offer for everyone.
Curacao has emerged to be the largest and the most prosperous Netherlands Antilles group from a sleepy island until the 20th century when the Royal Dutch Shell Company set up its one of the largest oil refineries on this island. It was then that workers from 50 odd countries migrated to Curacao making it a cosmopolitan and multicultural community.
Apart from being one of the most preferred destinations in the world for vacationing, Curacao also offers lucrative real estate options for investors. The island is currently witnessing several ongoing real estate projects that leave several options to choose from, be it a vacation home, commercial property, and many more. Some of the projects that are being undertaken by real estate developers in Curacao are:
Condominiums - In case, you have been thinking of buying a Condominium in Curacao for a long time, you shouldn't waste any more time. The biggest advantage of purchasing a condominium in Curacao is that you can use it as a vacation home and when you are away, you could rent it out and enjoy a monthly or a yearly income. The best time to purchase a Curacao Condominium is during pre-construction.
Vacation homes and apartments - Most real estate investors in Curacao desire to own their own vacation home or apartment, especially the ones facing the beach. There are vacation homes to fit all types of budget and the investing in one would reap benefits forever.
Luxury homes and villas - For all those who like to indulge in a lavish lifestyle, buying a luxury home or a villa in Curacao is not only a wise investment but also a chance to feel elegance in its truest sense. Owning luxury home or villa in Curacao adds further to one's sense of pride and exuberance.
Which islands, if any, have a large Dutch presence? Curacao? And do you notice it, as in a lot of over 6' tall individuals?
Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, St. Maarten, Saba, St. Eustatias are all Dutch colonies. Curacao in particular has a very large dutch community. With Dutch cafes and bars sprawling most parts of the island. Dutch people are mostly tall and on an average you could see the men and women to be over 6 feet easily. Some go till 6.7 too. The women have a large body and are more masculine in thier features.
Here's a Video about dutch caribbean island of curacao:
PSJZ - Bula Waya- Daniel Santos and Curacao-island scenes.
Caribbean Islands of West Indies are known as one of the most splendid and breathtakingly beautiful islands of the world. The magnificent and marvelous beauty of its lush green beaches and glorious sights of sandy resorts will no doubt dazzle your senses and gives you a feeling like you are in heaven.
Cruising is one of the most popular and pleasurable activity among the people of Europe and especially of Caribbean Islands. People enjoy the dazzling beauty of the beaches while traveling on a cruise. You can stay on the cruise ship for maximum 14 days at affordable rates. Millions of passengers travel on cruise ships and it has become the most important and famous part of the tourism industry.
Enjoying an extensive network of Islands on a cruise ship filled with mind blowing and peaceful beauty of golden beaches and resorts gives a man the best way to relax and unwind himself. To enjoy the stunning beauty of the high Volcanoes, snowfall on the peeks and worth watching views of the sea and its shore, a Caribbean cruise takes four major routes.
The most popular cruise route among all the routes is the Eastern Caribbean cruise route. This route starts from Florida, which is a popular city of United States of America, and sails through the Key West (Tropical Islands of Bahamas), Turks, Caicos and Virgin Islands. Finally, it reaches to Puerto Rico. This route passes through the most beautiful Islands of the world. Puerto Rico is a complete package of breathtaking beauty and opportunities to pamper you. Your journey would be incomplete if you miss to visit the world's famous and beautiful Condado beach on its Island.
Second route is the Western Caribbean cruise route, which starts from the seaports of the Texas, Louisiana and Florida. The cruise ship passes through a famous country Mexico, Island of Cozumel, Cayman Islands, Jamaica and then to the beautiful coasts of Central America Honduras and Belize.
Southern Caribbean cruise route is the third route, which begins from the main port of Puerto Rico and then passing through the Lesser Antilles and Netherlands Antilles ends at the west of Aruba Island.
Exotic or long duration Caribbean cruise route is the fourth route. In this specific route, you can take any of the above-mentioned directions. It is a mixture of all the routes. You can even start your journey from where the route ended. People prefer taking this route because of the vast options of traveling.
You can select a route, which suites you and your finances. For spending the perfect holidays and enjoying the lush green beautiful sights and beaches, clean natural environment and friendly people journey on the Caribbean cruise. This will definitely fulfill your desires. Mostly routes of cruise ships return the passengers to its originating port, but some routes are longer and take several months to return on the same port. So, if you don't want to miss the charms and gems of Caribbean Islands, take an unforgettable trip on a Caribbean cruise.
Is the Turks & caicos islands a good travel destination?
Me and my family want to take a vacation to the caribbeans this year and we need to know if it is a good vacation destination. My sons are 15 and 10, is this a good place to take them. If so could you please state some good resorts or activities. If not could you please tell us which other spots in Caribbean would be more suitable for my family?? Thanks
hummmm. OK Atlantis is great family fun in the Bahamas. The US Virgin Islands are pretty cool too. Someone said Playa de Carmen south of Cancun, yes lots too do there, great beaches, ruins to expore ect. Even Cancun itself is great, lots to do.
Here's a Video about caribbean islands family vacations:
The Presidente Intercontinental Cozumel Resort and Spa
Cruises are a popular vacation choice for travelers of all ages - from families looking for adventure to couples seeking romance to single vacationers hoping to meet new people and explore the world. If you're planning an upcoming cruise vacation, there are few considerations you should take into account before selecting a cruise line.
There are hundreds of cruise lines operating and they range from dastardly to over-the-top luxurious. Keep reading to learn some of the basics you should look for in a cruise line. From target markets to ship amenities, the right cruise line is out there for you.
1. Know the Target Markets
Some cruise lines have specific target markets. For example, Disney Cruises cater to families with children while other cruise lines offer cruises that are specifically for couples, single adults or seniors.
By being aware of the target market for not only your cruise line but also your specific sailing, that will help to ensure you don't wind up booking your romantic honeymoon cruise on a Spring break party boat.
2. Read Customer Reviews
Before booking your next cruise, read traveler reviews online. You'll get great insight into what real travelers like you have to say about a ship, its staff, the amenities and the food.
If a review is over-the-top glowing or suspiciously poor, read another. Try to get a variety of opinions for a thorough and perhaps more balanced idea of the ship.
3. Take a Virtual Tour
Most cruise lines offer virtual tours of their ships. Prospective customers can view videos or photos of everything from the individual cabins to the dining halls to the swimming pools.
Look over a map layout of the cruise line's boats and try to get a feel for where your cabin would be, especially relative to busy public areas or noisy crew facilities.
4. You Get What You Pay For
There are deals to be had on some cruise lines, but normally you get what you pay for. You should always look for discounts; however going off the beaten path and opting to book a cruise on an unknown line with nothing but poor reviews simply because it's only $60 a day is a recipe for disaster. You'll wind up disappointed by the experience - or worse!
When it comes to choosing the right cruise line for you, do your research. Check online photos and video, read customer testimonials, review the target market and remember that cheaper isn't always better.
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Help with a carnival cruise?
My husband and I are looking into going on a carnival caribbean cruise in the early part of Feb 2011. I have never been on a cruise and I am scared to death. My questions are as follows,
1) What clothing should I bring?
2) In Feb will it be to cool to swim comfortably in the ships pool?
3) Do we have to reserve going ashore in mexico ahead of time before the cruise or do we just go ashore?
4) Do we have to reserve our seats in particular dining areas or are our seats set up for us or do we just show up and are shown seats? (heard there was a steak house and want in on that)
5) How far ahead of time do we get our passports because we have none?
6) How much do meals cost or is that part of the fare?
I know this is long and drawn out, I just want to make sure all my bases are covered.
Thank you in advance
Attire: Generally on the ship and in port, you will want to dress casually. When going ashore, wear good walking shoes because the streets may be uneven, and some tours will require closed toe shoes for safety reasons. Formal nights can be full on tuxedos to just a nice dress shirt and slacks/simple dress and sweater. No shorts or casual jeans in the dining room for evening meal. But it is pretty casual over all. Light jackets or sweater in case of a shower or air conditioning.
The Caribbean should be warm and you should plan on enjoying the pool. Anything is possible weather-wise, but yes, plan on utilizing the pool and hot tubs.
Everyone can go ashore. Depending on your wants, you may or may not decide to participate in any shore excursions, or just walk around the port. Depends on the port. Check the links I provide below for places where you can get recommendations, more information, and reviews of previous passenger experiences.
You will be assigned a table for the evening meal in the main dining room. If you find you don't like the your table mates, speak to the maitre 'd and request a change... explaining to him why so he can match you better. However, you don't have to eat in the main dining room... you can always just visit the Lido buffet... but I encourage you to take advantage of the food and experience the MDR offers. You probably can also do "free style" dining, which means you can show up and wait... they will fit you in to the next available table.
If you want to eat in the specialty dining room, that is at an additional cost... about $30 + tip... and can be nice for a romantic evening or special fun night.
I think you should go to the post office and start the process of getting your Passport or Passport Card now. It should only take 6-8 weeks, but why wait. If you only cruise and don't plan on other international travel, consider the Passport Card. It is cheaper, and harder to lose... but it is only good for land crossings to Mexico or Canada and cruises departing from a US port.
All meals, entertainment, activities, etc on the ship is included in your fare, except for the specialty dining room, booze, sodas, or specialty coffees or specialty desserts served in a separate counter. The pizza, room service, deli, afternoon tea, coffee, morning juice, teas, lemonade is all included.
I suggest you check these sites for more detailed and specific information. You can also find a "Roll Call" where you can find others on your particular cruise... some folks make friends and arrange sail away parties, etc before they even arrive at the ship. It's fun!
http://www.cruisemates.com
http://www.cruisecritic.com
Have fun... Sailing on a cruise ship is a great vacation, and Carnival offers great value!
~K
Here's a Video about caribbean cruises feb 2011:
The Scholar-Ship provides presentation and life skill seminars aboard a luxurious cruise to Cozumel!
Caribbean Islands of West Indies are known as one of the most splendid and breathtakingly beautiful islands of the world. The magnificent and marvelous beauty of its lush green beaches and glorious sights of sandy resorts will no doubt dazzle your senses and gives you a feeling like you are in heaven.
Cruising is one of the most popular and pleasurable activity among the people of Europe and especially of Caribbean Islands. People enjoy the dazzling beauty of the beaches while traveling on a cruise. You can stay on the cruise ship for maximum 14 days at affordable rates. Millions of passengers travel on cruise ships and it has become the most important and famous part of the tourism industry.
Enjoying an extensive network of Islands on a cruise ship filled with mind blowing and peaceful beauty of golden beaches and resorts gives a man the best way to relax and unwind himself. To enjoy the stunning beauty of the high Volcanoes, snowfall on the peeks and worth watching views of the sea and its shore, a Caribbean cruise takes four major routes.
The most popular cruise route among all the routes is the Eastern Caribbean cruise route. This route starts from Florida, which is a popular city of United States of America, and sails through the Key West (Tropical Islands of Bahamas), Turks, Caicos and Virgin Islands. Finally, it reaches to Puerto Rico. This route passes through the most beautiful Islands of the world. Puerto Rico is a complete package of breathtaking beauty and opportunities to pamper you. Your journey would be incomplete if you miss to visit the world's famous and beautiful Condado beach on its Island.
Second route is the Western Caribbean cruise route, which starts from the seaports of the Texas, Louisiana and Florida. The cruise ship passes through a famous country Mexico, Island of Cozumel, Cayman Islands, Jamaica and then to the beautiful coasts of Central America Honduras and Belize.
Southern Caribbean cruise route is the third route, which begins from the main port of Puerto Rico and then passing through the Lesser Antilles and Netherlands Antilles ends at the west of Aruba Island.
Exotic or long duration Caribbean cruise route is the fourth route. In this specific route, you can take any of the above-mentioned directions. It is a mixture of all the routes. You can even start your journey from where the route ended. People prefer taking this route because of the vast options of traveling.
You can select a route, which suites you and your finances. For spending the perfect holidays and enjoying the lush green beautiful sights and beaches, clean natural environment and friendly people journey on the Caribbean cruise. This will definitely fulfill your desires. Mostly routes of cruise ships return the passengers to its originating port, but some routes are longer and take several months to return on the same port. So, if you don't want to miss the charms and gems of Caribbean Islands, take an unforgettable trip on a Caribbean cruise.
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Should I take a South Caribbean cruise-Adventure of the Seas or East Caribbean cruise-Freedom of the Seas?
I slightly prefer the itinerary on the Southern Caribbean cruise, but the Freedom of the Seas is a newer cruise ship with the Flow Rider etc... Is FotS worth it? also is it too crowded? & has anyone been to St Lucia, Antigua or St Croix? any advice or recommendations? Thanks!
I've done both cruises.(freedom this past march, adventure a few years back). Personally...i liked the ports of call and ship much better on the Freedom of the seas/Eastern caribbean. The southern is nice though, the adventure is older than the freedom and smaller, but less people. I've been to st.lucia and antiqua, they are both nice. But i prefer the eastern caribbean ports such as grand caymans, cozumel & Jamacia, there is ALOT more to do on those islands. I'd go for the freedom. The florider is a blast. Had alot of fun.
Here's a Video about southern caribbean cruise itinerary:
Southern Caribbean Cruise, St. Maarten - Part 8 of 8
I'm planning on taking a cruise with my 16 year old daughter (I'm 37) around June 2010/July 2010. We were looking at the Caribbean and the Bahamas; with either Royal Caribbean or Carnival (which would you recommend? Any other good cruise lines?). We need to port out of Florida, as we're going to visit family in Florida beforehand. We want to stay about 3-5 nights, no more than 6. We're looking to have fun, and relax at the same time (emphasis on the fun though! LOL). I'd like to spend no more than $600 per person, preferably under $500, but I'm not sure if this is possible. Any suggestions on which cabins to pick? I'm not sure if I'd become seasick, so I'd want to pick a cabin that would prevent this from happening. I mainly want to know which location is best, as well as which cruise line is best. Thanks in advance!
Also, how old must one be to enter a cruise casino? Are the casinos 18 and up? 21 and up?
Carnival is cheaper, but Royal is not that much more expensive. They are both good. Carnival and Royal are especially good for first-timers, however I would recommend Royal because I think they have better service. Either way they're both good.
Here's a Video about caribbean cruise and stay 2010:
For years, Cozumel, Mexico has ranked among the world's top five diving destinations.
The southwest coast is lined with tall reefs. These create soaring walls offering divers a magical landscape to explore.
Non-divers can enjoy Cozumel's beautiful Caribbean waters with their associated water sports and seaside activities.
Naturally, one of Cozumel, Mexico's main attractions is diving. Cozumel, Mexico's warm, clear, blue-green waters contain the second-largest reef network in the world.
The vibrant sea life in the Cozumel reef attracts scuba divers the world over.
Cozumel Reefs National Park is a protected 121.4-sq km (30,000-acre) national area at the southern section of Cozumel.
It takes in 85 percent of Cozumel's dive sites.
Cozumel, Mexico is a paradise for diving enthusiasts and sun-worshippers.
Divers from all over the world come to Cozumel. They experience, while diving, the endless variety of its underwater life.
The marine life here in Cozumel contains every texture and color imaginable.
The second most popular sport on Cozumel is snorkeling.
Beginning snorkelers need not swim far distances or embark on boat trips to take advantage of the reefs.
There are great snorkeling opportunities even at Cozumel beach resort and beach hotels.
Sightseeing in Cozumel offers gorgeous scenery and various delightful activities for visitors, like:
o Water sports
o Boat tours
o Sunset cruises
o An ecological park
o Duty-free shopping
o A few archaeological sites
Semi-submersible subs and real submarines can also take visitors to view Cozumel's unique undersea marvels.
They can also ride through the jungle on horseback.
The only town on Cozumel, Mexico is San Miguel. It is a small town, in spite of the last 20 years' growth. San Miguel is not strikingly beautiful, but the town and its people are pleasant.
Cozumel is hugely popular with cruise ships. Its waterfront is jam-packed with jewelry stores and souvenir shops. Most cruise ship passengers do not venture further into town than these shops and the area around the town's main square.
Visitors who develop island fever and need a break can catch a ferry to Playa del Carmen and the mainland.
Some travel agencies on Cozumel, Mexico can organize a tour of the major ruins on the mainland.
These include:
o Tulum
o Coba
o Chichén Itzá
o Xel-Ha or Xcaret (nature parks)
Cozumel, Mexico has its own ruins. But there is no comparison with the major sites of the mainland.
During pre-Hispanic times, Maya women used to come to Cozumel to make offerings to Ixchel, the goddess of fertility.
Visitors enjoy the pleasant restaurants in Cozumel, Mexico.
Cozumel is the ideal location to enjoy a romantic dinner with a view of the ocean.
Dining in Cozumel means dining in the kinds of places previously only dreamed of.
Diners can find just what they crave, including:
o American fast-food outlets
o Simple outdoor eateries serving great regional dishes
o Dining spots offering gourmet Mexican seafood and romantic settings
Cozumel restaurants are generally quite good.
The restaurants are located around the main plaza. They offer reasonably-priced international cuisine. In short, visitors to Cozumel have to be truly dedicated to try all the good restaurants.
The "flavor" of Cozumel is not to be missed.
The Carnival in Cozumel is one of the main event during the year. Similar to Mardi Gras, the Cozumel Carnival is a colorful fiesta! Carnival starts on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday.
Daytime street dancing and nighttime parades take place on Thursday and Saturday. Monday, however, has the best parade and dancing!
Being an island, Cozumel is very safe. It is safe to walk the streets downtown, even late at night.
Cozumel, is frequented by athletic visitors. They expend energy all day and unwind early in the evening. People sit in outdoor cafés around the zocalo. They enjoy the cool night breeze until the restaurant-bars close.
Because of this, dinner and night life often run into one another.
Pack your sense of adventure and come visit Cozumel!
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What is the Caribbean Beach resort at Disney World like?
How is transportation? I saw on the resort map that there are busses within the resort, does this make going to the park extra complicated and long? You gotta take a bus to go to the busses, lol. How long does it take to get to Epcot? How about Magic Kindom? thanks
How my gosh I have been there with your luck you will have a great time my family has been there before the have the Old Port Royale and that like a huge food court and each part of the resort has it's own bus stop and you wait for the buses and it will say the destinatio like Magic Kingdom or Epcot GREAT transportation!!!!
Here's a Video about caribbean resort disney map:
SPLASH MOUNTAIN AT DISNEYLAND SHOT IN HIGH DEFINITION
I'm single age 33 looking for a last minute all-inclusive vacation to the caribbean. Any suggestions?
I've had been a mainly solo traveller to Barbados most times as well as Trinidad & Tobago but where safety is concerned, I'd go with Barbados as I highly recommend it.
When thinking about the perfect vacation, what comes to mind? Do you want to explore beautiful beaches and gorgeous waterfalls, or perhaps try river rafting or horseback riding? If this is the kind of vacation you have been hoping for, then a Caribbean vacation is the right one for you. With all of its the luscious landscapes and enjoyable activities, the Caribbean attracts tourists from countries around the world. And it is easy to see what attracts such a diverse group of people to the Caribbean. The different islands, such as Jamaica, are tropical paradises that are sure to delight everyone! And there are many different ways to enjoy the country of Jamaica. Whether you wish to watch the sunset over the ocean while sipping a drink, or go hiking in the mountains, the country is full of wonderful opportunities that will fulfill all of the dreams you have had of the perfect vacation.
If you want to visit the west coast of the island, there are many beautiful spots in Negril Jamaica. You can head over to Rick's Café to watch divers as they plunge from high cliffs into the water below, all while enjoying terrific food and drinks at the bar. For a little more action, you can search out the local horseback riding locations. Horseback riding is available and very popular around the entire island. Perhaps instead of horseback riding you would rather ride your bike. There are plenty of bike paths around this part of the island; biking tours are available throughout the island. Some of these tours go through the villages around the local town and can lead to the many beaches for a quick swim. If you are looking to relax, then arrange a tour of the shopping centers!
Now, you are probably thinking that vacations tend to cost a lot of money. And in this current economy, it is not always easy to find that excess cash needed to plan that vacation you deserve. But vacations are supposed to be a fun occasion! So instead of worrying about not being able to afford that trip, look into the many different discount vacation packages that are offered for your upcoming getaway! There are many different deals at various locations that are readily available, which will make it much easier and cheaper when you are planning a vacation. These great packages will help relieve your stress without breaking the bank.
I postponed my destination wedding, what do I do about the trip?
My Fiance and I were planning a destination wedding in the caribbean. It was going to be amazing! However, my family pushed for a wedding here and I caved. We are postponing the wedding by a little under a year (for planning reasons).
The thing is, while all the wedding costs have been returned to us, we cannot cancel our flight and hotel package without losing the total cost of the vacation.
I would really like to just take the vacation and count it as an engagement trip or something like that. However it is a tough decision for me. My fiance and I are waiting until marriage for sex. I think the trip would reflect poorly on this, and might tempt us into doing something we would regret later.
I want (and will value most ) opinions of Christian believers.
I can't sell the trip, the tickets are in our names. we either go or don't, but the money is lost either way.
I think you can control yourselves. As a little extra protection, maybe, try booking a second room for your fiance. That way you can enjoy the vacation, and only have to pay a little extra on a second room to prevent midnight temptations.
Here's a Video about caribbean vacation packages for families:
Cruise vacations are a great way to get away for a long duration of time without breaking your budget. Here is some information about typical questions people ask when pondering the idea of going on a cruise.
Are Cruise Vacations Expensive?
If you compare cruising to a land vacation, being on the boat always is the more cost effective approach. Compare all the costs on land to ensure that your vacation is practical and fun. You will have to add up food costs, entertainment costs, transportation, fitness, social activities and party expenses. All of these costs are wrapped up into one package when going cruising. The more you pay, the more options you will have and will determine the duration of your vacation, accommodations and the destination of travel. Every ship is different in its own right and costs will vary based on the mix of passengers and size. The best way to determine what type of vacation you want to go on is by setting a budget. There are so many types of vacations that you can take so set your initial budget and go from there.
Be careful of travel companies that offer cheap discount cruises. This typically means that the product and services are bad or that the price has been unrealistically discounted with the middleman. If it's too good to be true, then it probably is. Make sure to talk with a professional travel agent when booking your vacation for the maximum cost efficiency.
Have you ever been offered a 7-day cruise for a ridiculously good price? Be careful because there always tends to be a catch to severely discounted cruises. Some times you can find these "diamonds" in the rough, but more times then none, there is a steep catch that you might have to pay for later. The best way to know is by reading the fine print while booking. Make sure to check all the additional costs such as, tips, drinks, getting to the ship and dining room experience. Make sure to be prudent when booking cruise vacations.
Is that true, Caribbean vacation is best tourist please in Virgin Islands?
The nice hotel of Peace of Mind St. Thomas is another example of fantastic stay away from your home that provides you all the basic requirements of a delicate life. The fully artistic swimming pool is an added feature of the place that is creating a new impression on the mind of the tourists here. These rooms have wonderful fittings all around. These fittings include light, lamp shades and fascinating murals that are collected from many places and are really wonderful in variety. It depends upon the place and the features that it offers. St. Thomas Peace of Mind offers its visitors a delightful stay in best manners. So, don’t worries just log on to http://www.stthomaspieceofmind.com
Here's a Video about caribbean vacation best:
Travel Industry's Best Kept Secret Contest Winner!
Welcome to Play Caribbean! We have setup this website to bring our visitors everything we have learned and experienced in our 20 years of traveling throughout the Caribbean. It is our goal to be one of the premier websites with a wealth of information focusing only on the Caribbean islands. Please use the search box at the top right corner of the website to quickly search all of our news and information we've gathered over the years. Enjoy our stay!
