Soto: The Hidden Gem of Curacao

• HelloBon dia
  [bon dee-ya]
• GoodbyeAyo
  [ah-yo]
• YesSí
  [see]
• NoNo
  [no]
• Please/You're welcomePor fabor
  [por fa-bor]
• Thank youDanki
  [dahn-kee]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [so-ree]
• How are you?Kon ta bai?
  [kon ta ba-ee?]
• Fine. And you?Bon. I bai?
  [bon. ee ba-ee?]
• Do you speak English?Bo ta papia Ingles?
  [bo ta pa-pee-ya ing-gles?]
• I don't understandMi no ta kompronde
  [mee no ta kom-pron-de]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi kier mira e menu, por fabor
  [mee keer mee-rah e meh-noo, por fa-bor]
• I don't eat meatMi no ta kome karni
  [mee no ta ko-me kar-nee]
• Cheers!Salú
  [sa-loo]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi kier paga, por fabor
  [mee keer pa-ga, por fa-bor]

• Help!Yudami!
  [yoo-da-mee]
• Go away!Bai bek!
  [bye bek]
• Call the Police!Yama polis!
  [ya-ma po-lis]
• Call a doctor!Yama un dokter!
  [ya-ma oon dok-ter]
• I'm lostMi a bira perdi
  [mee a bee-ra per-dee]
• I'm illMi ta malu
  [mee ta ma-loo]

• I'd like to buy...Mi kier kumpra...
  [mee keer koom-pra]
• I'm just lookingMi ta solamente mira
  [mee ta so-la-men-te mee-rah]
• How much is it?Kuantu e ta kostá?
  [kwan-too e ta kos-ta?]
• That's too expensiveEsaki ta muchu karu
  [eh-sa-kee ta moo-choo ka-roo]
• Can you lower the price?Bo por baha e preis?
  [bo por ba-ha e preis?]

• What time is it?Kuantu ora e ta?
  [kwan-too o-ra e ta?]
• It's one o'clockTa un ora
  [ta oon o-ra]
• Half past (10)Mita di dies
  [mee-ta dee dees]
• MorningMarduga
  [mar-doo-ga]
• AfternoonAtardi
  [ah-tar-dee]
• EveningAnochi
  [a-no-shee]
• YesterdayAyera
  [ay-eh-ra]
• TodayAwe
  [ah-weh]
• TomorrowMañana
  [ma-nya-na]
• 1Un
  [oon]
• 2Dos
  [doss]
• 3Tres
  [tres]
• 4Cuater
  [kwa-ter]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-ko]
• 6Seis
  [sace]
• 7Siete
  [syet-te]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-cho]
• 9Nuebe
  [nwe-be]
• 10Dies
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Unda ta un/e...?
  [oon-da ta oon/e]
• What's the address?Kua ta e adres?
  [kwa ta e a-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bo por mustra mi (riba e mapa)?
  [bo por moos-tra mee (ree-ba e ma-pa)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kuando ta e siguiente (bus)?
  [kwan-do ta e see-gwen-te (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un tiki (pa ....)
  [oon tee-kee (pa)]

Long before European explorers set foot on Curacao, the indigenous Arawak people inhabited the island. Soto was one of the many areas where the Arawaks lived, hunting, fishing, and farming. Their presence is evidenced by archaeological finds, such as pottery and tools, scattered throughout the region.

In 1499, Spanish explorer Alonso de Ojeda, accompanied by Amerigo Vespucci, discovered Curacao. The Spanish established small settlements, including in the area now known as Soto. The indigenous population was significantly impacted by diseases brought by the Europeans and the subsequent forced labor.

In 1634, the Dutch seized Curacao from the Spanish. Soto became part of the Dutch West India Company's network of plantations. The land in and around Soto was used primarily for agriculture, producing crops like maize, beans, and aloe vera. The plantation system also relied heavily on enslaved Africans, whose descendants still reside in the area today.

Landhuis San Nicolas, a historic plantation house in Soto, stands as a testament to the Dutch colonial era. Built in the 18th century, it served as the main house for the plantation owners. Today, it remains a significant architectural and historical landmark, offering visitors a glimpse into the colonial past.

In 1863, slavery was abolished in Curacao, leading to profound changes in Soto and its surrounding areas. Formerly enslaved individuals established new communities and began to work the land for their own benefit. This period marked a significant transition in the social and economic fabric of Soto.

Soto is home to the Tula Monument, dedicated to the leader of the 1795 slave revolt against the Dutch colonial authorities. Tula is a national hero in Curacao, and the monument in Soto serves as a powerful reminder of the struggle for freedom and justice.

Today, Soto is a vibrant community that celebrates its rich history and cultural heritage. Efforts to preserve historical landmarks, traditional music, dance, and culinary practices are evident throughout the area. The annual cultural festivals and events attract both locals and tourists, fostering a deep appreciation for the unique legacy of Soto.

Soto is located in the western part of Curacao. The nearest international airport is Hato International Airport (CUR), approximately 30 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use a shuttle service to reach Soto. The drive typically takes around 40 minutes. Public buses also connect the airport to various parts of the island, including Soto.

Within Soto, the best way to get around is by renting a car, as public transportation options are limited. Taxis are available but can be more expensive. If you prefer a more local experience, you can use the 'konvoi' minibus system that operates on fixed routes around the island. Biking can be an option for short distances and to explore the scenic countryside.

The official currency in Curacao is the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG), but US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Soto and surrounding areas for withdrawing cash.

Soto is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Soto itself has low crime rates, it is advisable to stay vigilant, particularly in more isolated areas or when hiking.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are in Willemstad, about 30 kilometers away. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Soto where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably but modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress conservatively and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be respectful to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'Bon dia' (Good day). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Soto like a local, visit the local markets to buy fresh produce and traditional Curacaoan goods. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the nearby Christoffel National Park and climb Mount Christoffel for stunning views. Also, take time to explore the beautiful beaches and try local seafood dishes.