Paradise Found: Playa Kenepa in Curacao

• HelloBon dia
  [bon dee-ah]
• GoodbyeAyo
  [ah-yo]
• YesSi
  [see]
• NoNo
  [noh]
• Please/You're welcomePor fabor
  [por fah-bor]
• Thank youDanki
  [dahn-kee]
• Excuse me/SorryDisculpa
  [dees-kool-pah]
• How are you?Kon ta bai?
  [kohn tah bah-ee?]
• Fine. And you?Bon. I bo?
  [bon. ee boh?]
• Do you speak English?Bo papia Ingles?
  [boh pah-pee-ah een-gless?]
• I don't understandMi no ta comprende
  [mee noh tah com-prehn-deh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi ke mira e menu, por fabor
  [mee keh mee-rah eh meh-noo, por fah-bor]
• I don't eat meatMi no kome karni
  [mee noh koh-meh kahr-nee]
• Cheers!Salud!
  [sah-lood]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi ke paga, por fabor
  [mee keh pah-gah, por fah-bor]

• Help!Yudami!
  [yoo-dah-mee]
• Go away!Bai for di mi!
  [bah-ee fohr dee mee]
• Call the Police!Yama polis!
  [yah-mah poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Yama un dokter!
  [yah-mah oon dohk-tehr]
• I'm lostMi a perde mi mes
  [mee ah pehr-deh mee mehs]
• I'm illMi ta malu
  [mee tah mah-loo]

• I'd like to buy...Mi ke kumpra...
  [mee keh koom-prah]
• I'm just lookingMi ta so mira
  [mee tah soh mee-rah]
• How much is it?Kuantu e kos ta?
  [kwan-too eh kohs tah?]
• That's too expensiveEsaki ta muchu karu
  [eh-sah-kee tah moo-choo kah-roo]
• Can you lower the price?Bo por baha e prijs?
  [boh por bah-hah eh prees?]

• What time is it?Kuantu ora ta?
  [kwan-too oh-rah tah?]
• It's one o'clockTa un ora
  [tah oon oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Mita di dies
  [mee-tah dee dees]
• MorningMarduga
  [mahr-doo-gah]
• AfternoonAtardi
  [ah-tahr-dee]
• EveningAnochi
  [ah-noh-chee]
• YesterdayAnoche
  [ah-noh-cheh]
• TodayAwe
  [ah-weh]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Un
  [oon]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Kuater
  [kwah-ter]
• 5Sinku
  [seen-koo]
• 6Seis
  [say-ees]
• 7Siete
  [see-eh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nuebe
  [nweh-beh]
• 10Dies
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Unda ta e...?
  [oon-dah tah eh...?]
• What's the address?Kuantu e adres ta?
  [kwan-too eh ah-drehs tah?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bo por mustra mi (riba e mapa)?
  [boh por moos-trah mee (ree-bah eh mah-pah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Kuando e siguiente (bus)?
  [kwan-doh eh see-gwee-en-teh (boos)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Un tiket (pa ....)
  [oon tee-keh (pah ....)]

Long before European explorers set foot on Curacao, the island was inhabited by the Arawak and Caiquetio tribes. These indigenous people were skilled fishermen and farmers, utilizing the natural resources of Playa Kenepa and its surroundings for sustenance. They left behind artifacts and petroglyphs that offer a glimpse into their rich culture and way of life.

In 1499, Spanish explorers led by Alonso de Ojeda arrived on the shores of Curacao. They initially named the island 'Isla de los Gigantes' due to the tall stature of the native Caiquetio people. Playa Kenepa, like the rest of the island, came under Spanish control, marking the beginning of European influence in the region.

In 1634, the Dutch West India Company seized control of Curacao from the Spanish. Playa Kenepa, known locally as 'Grote Knip' and 'Kleine Knip,' became part of the island's flourishing economy based on salt mining, agriculture, and trade. The Dutch constructed forts and settlements, leaving a lasting architectural and cultural impact on the region.

During the 17th and 18th centuries, Curacao became a center for the transatlantic slave trade. Enslaved Africans were brought to the island and forced to work on plantations. Playa Kenepa was no exception, with its fertile lands being used for agriculture. The legacy of this dark period is still evident in the island’s cultural and demographic landscape.

In 1863, slavery was abolished in the Dutch Caribbean, including Curacao. Playa Kenepa saw a transformation as former slaves and their descendants began to assert their cultural identity and heritage. The area became a symbol of resilience and a testament to the rich, diverse cultural tapestry that defines modern Curacao.

The mid-20th century marked the beginning of tourism development in Curacao. Playa Kenepa, with its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, became a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Infrastructure improvements and eco-friendly initiatives were introduced to preserve the natural beauty of the area while accommodating the growing number of visitors.

Today, Playa Kenepa is celebrated as one of Curacao's most beautiful and culturally significant beaches. It remains a beloved spot for relaxation, snorkeling, and exploring the vibrant marine life. Efforts continue to preserve its natural charm and historical significance, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the unique blend of history and natural beauty that Curacao offers.

Playa Kenepa is located on the western side of Curacao, approximately 45 minutes from Willemstad, the island's capital. The nearest airport is Hato International Airport (CUR). From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a shuttle service to reach Playa Kenepa. Renting a car is recommended for convenience and flexibility.

The most convenient way to explore Playa Kenepa and the surrounding areas is by renting a car. Public buses are available but infrequent and may not reach all tourist spots. Taxis are also an option, but they can be expensive. If you choose to rent a car, make sure to book in advance during peak tourist seasons.

The official currency in Curacao is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), also known as the Florin. US dollars are widely accepted, and credit cards are commonly used in hotels, restaurants, and shops. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Willemstad and larger towns.

Playa Kenepa is generally safe for tourists. However, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach and be cautious in less populated areas at night. Willemstad and its surrounding neighborhoods have higher crime rates, so stay vigilant and avoid walking alone after dark.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There are medical facilities and pharmacies in Willemstad and nearby towns. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Don't wear overly revealing clothing outside of the beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially if visiting religious sites. Don't engage in loud or disruptive behavior. Public Transport: Do use official taxi services and agree on fares beforehand. Don't rely solely on public buses, as they can be unreliable. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bon dia' (Good morning). Don't forget to smile and be polite. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes such as Keshi Yena and Funchi. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Playa Kenepa like a local, visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds. Bring your own snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant underwater life. Engage with locals; they are friendly and often willing to share tips about the best spots. Don't miss out on trying local snacks from beach vendors.