Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine July 2017 | Page 218

Curaçao’s Diversity
T
The breathtaking scenery of palm
trees towering over the sandy beaches
is just one thing to be admired about
this beautiful island. Discovering its
history and culture which has been molded for
over a hundred years also evokes admiration
for the multi-faceted nature of its cultural
diversity.
Many years ago, the island was ruled by
different European nations, resulting in a
collection of diverse cultures and traditions.
Dutch, Spanish, English, French and Jewish are
just some of the many nationalities who have
once ventured onto this tiny, yet strategically
located island in the southern Caribbean.
Its descendants showcase the interesting
multicultural historical heritage of the island,
of which there are more than 40 diverse ethnic
groups being represented, each bringing its
piece of unique cultural significance to the
island. This amazing blend makes Curacao
a distinctly intriguing place to discover and
explore.
This ethnic diversity is highlighted in every
facet of island’s day-to-day experience. Take
a look at the country’s colorful buildings, an
architectural reminder of a then governor who,
it is said, was not able to endure the sunlight
reflecting off the white buildings and needed
to have the buildings infused with colour to
avert sunlight-induced headaches; visit the
Kura Hulanda Museum where you’ll be able to
revisit the island’s brutal slave history; pay a
visit to noteworthy historical structures such
as the Jewish Cultural Historical Museum,
Landhuis Brievengat, Fort Amsterdam, Curacao
Maritime Museum, and many more; experience
a walk down memory lane even as you stroll
around the downtown streets. The creative
mélange of architectural styles prevalent in
most of the island’s structures express the
charm of varied ethnic influences. And every
trip to the island, no matter how many, is as
magical, colorful and awe-inspiring as the very
first time.
The cultural harmony which exists on the island
was not an overnight process. Many years were
invested in the creation of the island blend of
cultural existence and expressions that now
exist and which can be safely enjoyed by both
locals and visitors.
After a visitor has explored the island’s
enlightening historical journey over the years,
they must allow themselves to now indulge in
the ethnic diversities presented in the culinary
treats that are present in the many eating
establishments throughout the island. Do not
restrict yourself only to restaurants, as you
will indeed miss a unique culinary awakening.
Visit the “Old Market” where you’ll find some
of the island’s best authentic food, distinctly
representative of its ethnic culinary diversity.
Plunge with fervour into the local food you’ll
find here - the curried goat, rice and peas and
pumpkin pancakes. And, be sure to eat keshi
yena, Curacao’s national dish and take a sip of
the famous Blue Curacao Liqueur.
Natural beauty, ethnic diversity and culinary
pleasures - that’s Curacao!