Westpunt: The Hidden Gem of Curaçao

• 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/SorrySori
  [soh-ree]
• How are you?Kon ta bai?
  [kon tah by]
• Fine. And you?Bon. I bu?
  [bon. ee boo]
• Do you speak English?Bo papia Ingles?
  [boh pah-pee-ah een-gles]
• I don't understandMi no ta kompronde
  [mee noh tah kom-pron-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 kar-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 bai!
  [bye-bye]
• Call the Police!Yama polis!
  [yah-mah poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Yama un dokter!
  [yah-mah oon dohk-ter]
• 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 mira solamente
  [mee tah mee-rah soh-lah-men-teh]
• How much is it?Kuantu esaki ta kosta?
  [kwan-too eh-sah-kee tah koh-stah]
• 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 or ta?
  [kwan-too or tah]
• It's one o'clockTa un or
  [tah oon or]
• Half past (10)Mita (10)
  [mee-tah]
• MorningMarduga
  [mar-doo-gah]
• AfternoonAtardi
  [ah-tar-dee]
• EveningAnochi
  [ah-noh-chee]
• YesterdayAyera
  [ah-yeh-rah]
• TodayAwe
  [ah-weh]
• TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
• 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Cuatro
  [kwa-troh]
• 5Cinco
  [seen-koh]
• 6Seis
  [says]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
• 10Diez
  [dyehs]

• Where's a/the...?Unda ta...?
  [oon-dah tah]
• What's the address?Kiko ta e adres?
  [kee-koh tah eh ah-dres]
• 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)?Ki ora ta bini (bus)?
  [kee or-rah tah bee-nee boos]
• A ticket (to ....)Un tiki (pa ....)
  [oon tee-kee pah]

Before the arrival of Europeans, the island of Curaçao was inhabited by the Arawak people. They were primarily farmers and fishers, utilizing the region's natural resources. Archaeological findings in the Westpunt area reveal the presence of these indigenous communities through ancient pottery, tools, and petroglyphs.

In 1499, the Spanish explorer Alonso de Ojeda discovered Curaçao during one of his voyages. The Spanish initially named the island 'Isla de los Gigantes' due to the height of the native Arawak people. Although the Spanish did not establish significant settlements in Westpunt, their arrival marked the beginning of European interest in the island.

In 1634, the Dutch West India Company captured Curaçao from the Spanish. The Dutch established a more permanent presence on the island, focusing on trade and the establishment of plantations. Westpunt became an essential part of this economic activity, with several plantations set up in the area. The remnants of these plantations, such as the Knip Plantation, can still be visited today.

Slavery was a significant part of Westpunt's history during the Dutch colonial period. Enslaved Africans were brought to work on the plantations, and their labor was integral to the island's economy. Despite the harsh conditions, the enslaved community maintained aspects of their African heritage, which influenced the culture of Westpunt and Curaçao as a whole. The abolition of slavery in 1863 was a pivotal moment in the area's history.

Curaçao's strategic location in the Caribbean made it a hotspot for pirate activity during the 17th and 18th centuries. Westpunt, with its secluded bays and coves, provided perfect hideouts for these seafaring outlaws. Legends of buried treasure and pirate encounters add a layer of intrigue to the area's history.

One of the most significant events in Westpunt's history is the Tula Insurrection of 1795. Tula, an enslaved African, led a large-scale revolt against the oppressive conditions on the Knip Plantation. The rebellion began in the Westpunt area and spread across the island, making it a symbol of resistance and the struggle for freedom. Today, Tula is celebrated as a national hero in Curaçao.

In the 20th century, Westpunt transformed from a plantation-based economy to a more diverse and tourism-oriented region. The natural beauty of Westpunt's beaches, such as Playa Kalki, and its coral reefs have made it a popular destination for tourists and divers. Modern infrastructure and amenities have been developed to accommodate the growing number of visitors while preserving the area's historical and cultural heritage.

Westpunt, located on the northwestern tip of Curacao, is accessible primarily through Hato International Airport (CUR) in Willemstad, about 40 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use a shuttle service to reach Westpunt. The drive usually takes around 40-50 minutes and offers scenic views along the way.

Once in Westpunt, renting a car is the most convenient way to get around, as public transportation options are limited and infrequent. Taxis are available but can be expensive. Some accommodations offer shuttle services to popular spots. Biking is also an option for those who enjoy a more active mode of transportation, but be mindful of the hot climate and bring plenty of water.

The official currency in Curacao is the Antillean Guilder (ANG), locally known as the florin. U.S. dollars are widely accepted, and many establishments list prices in both currencies. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller businesses and local markets. ATMs are available, but they might be scarce in more remote areas.

Westpunt is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, it’s important to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach or in your car. Although crime rates are relatively low, some areas in Willemstad, specifically Punda and Otrobanda, have higher incidents of petty crime targeting tourists. It's best to stay vigilant, especially after dark.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Westpunt has a small medical clinic, but for serious medical issues, you may need to travel to Willemstad. It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications, and many locals speak English, making it easier to communicate your needs.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. Don’t wear beachwear away from the beach or pool area, as it may be considered inappropriate. Religion: Do respect local religious practices and dress modestly when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do use taxis or rental cars as primary means of transport. Don’t rely on public buses as they are infrequent. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bon dia' (Good day) or 'Bon tardi' (Good afternoon). Don’t ignore local customs of courtesy. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine, including dishes like 'keshi yena' and 'stoba.' Don’t refuse an invitation to join a meal, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Westpunt like a local, visit the fishermen’s wharf early in the morning to see the day’s catch. Engage with locals who are often eager to share stories about the area’s history and culture. Snorkel at Playa Kalki or dive at Watamula for some of the best underwater experiences. Don’t miss the fresh seafood at local eateries and try the traditional Curacao liqueur.