Sabana Westpunt: Curacao's Hidden Gem

• HelloBon dia
  [bon dee-ah]
• GoodbyeAyo
  [ah-yo]
• YesSi
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePor fabor
  [por fa-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 bo]
• Do you speak English?Bo papia Ingles?
  [boh pah-pee-ah een-glehs]
• I don't understandMi no kumpronde
  [mee noh koom-prohn-deh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi ke mira e menu, por fabor
  [mee keh mee-rah eh meh-noo, por fa-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 fa-bor]

• Help!Yuda!
  [yoo-dah]
• Go away!Bai for di mi!
  [bah-ee for 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 ta perdi
  [mee tah pehr-dee]
• 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?Kon ta kosta esei?
  [kohn tah koh-stah eh-say]
• That's too expensiveEsaki ta masha karo
  [eh-sah-kee tah mah-shah kah-roh]
• Can you lower the price?Por fabor, por reduci preis?
  [por fa-bor, por reh-doo-see pray-s]

• 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 (10)
  [mee-tah (dies)]
• MorningMarduga
  [mahr-doo-gah]
• AfternoonAtardi
  [ah-tahr-dee]
• EveningAnochi
  [ah-noh-chee]
• YesterdayAyera
  [ah-ye-rah]
• TodayAwe
  [ah-weh]
• TomorrowMañan
  [mah-nyahn]
• 1Un
  [oon]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Kuater
  [kwah-ter]
• 5Sinku
  [seen-koo]
• 6Ses
  [sehs]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-cho]
• 9Nuebe
  [nweh-beh]
• 10Dies
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Unda ta...?
  [oon-dah tah]
• What's the address?Kua ta e adres?
  [kwah tah eh ah-drehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bo por mustra mi (riba e mapa)?
  [boh pohr moos-trah mee (ree-bah eh mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kuantu tempu te ora e prosimo (bus)?
  [kwan-too tem-poo teh oh-rah eh proh-see-moh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biaha pa....
  [oon byah-hah pah]

Long before European colonization, the area now known as Sabana Westpunt was inhabited by the Arawak and Caiquetio peoples. These indigenous groups thrived on the island, living off the land and sea. Archeological findings, such as pottery and tools, provide evidence of their presence and way of life.

In 1499, Spanish explorers, led by Alonso de Ojeda, arrived in Curacao. The island, including Sabana Westpunt, came under Spanish rule, leading to significant changes in the local way of life. The Spanish introduced new agricultural practices and brought enslaved Africans to work on plantations.

The Dutch West India Company seized Curacao from the Spanish in 1634. Under Dutch control, Sabana Westpunt saw the establishment of large plantations. The area became known for its production of dyewood, salt, and aloe vera. Enslaved Africans continued to work under harsh conditions on these plantations.

In 1863, the Netherlands abolished slavery, leading to significant changes in Sabana Westpunt. Freed slaves established new communities, and former plantations struggled to adapt to the loss of free labor. This period saw the rise of a more diverse local economy, with many turning to fishing and small-scale agriculture.

Sabana Westpunt is rich in Afro-Caribbean culture, with traditions deeply rooted in the history of its people. Festivals, music, and dance reflect a blend of African, European, and indigenous influences. Notable cultural events include traditional tambú music and dance, which celebrate the area's vibrant heritage.

In the 20th century, Sabana Westpunt began to attract tourists drawn to its natural beauty, including the stunning beaches of Playa Kalki and Playa Grandi. Investment in infrastructure and hospitality has transformed the area, making it a popular destination while maintaining its cultural and historical charm.

Sabana Westpunt is located on the northwestern tip of Curacao. The nearest international airport is Hato International Airport, approximately 45 kilometers away. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a shuttle service to reach Sabana Westpunt. The journey typically takes about 45 minutes by road.

Sabana Westpunt is a small area, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, renting a car is highly recommended as it allows for greater freedom to explore the island. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Public buses do operate to and from Sabana Westpunt but are less frequent. Biking is another popular option for short distances.

The official currency in Curacao is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available, but it's a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas like Sabana Westpunt.

Sabana Westpunt is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always best to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach and be cautious when walking alone at night. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is advisable.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are located in Willemstad, about 45 minutes away by car. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the area where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather. Swimsuits are appropriate at the beach but not in public areas like restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Modest clothing is recommended when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be patient as public buses may not run on a strict schedule. Don’t assume everyone speaks English; a little Papiamentu or Dutch goes a long way. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'Bon dia' (Good day). Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like 'keshi yena' and 'stoba'. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Sabana Westpunt like a local, visit the local beaches such as Playa Knip and Playa Kalki, which are less crowded and offer beautiful scenery. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to go snorkeling or diving to explore the vibrant marine life. For a unique experience, try to catch a local fishing boat tour.