Curaçao is located in the Southern Caribbean, just off the coast of Venezuela. It’s an autonomous country within the Kingdom of The Netherlands and, together with Aruba and Bonaire, it constitutes the “ABC” islands, or Leeward Antilles. Because of its location just 12° north of the Equator, Curaçao has a warm, sunny climate year round and wonderful ocean breezes.
This Caribbean island features amazing coral reefs, walls and sunken ships. The island’s dive sites are protected from strong currents, making this is a great place for those just blowing their first bubbles or experienced divers.
Our home for the 10-day trip was Lions Dive Resort; just steps away from Mambo Beach Boulevard. Many dining options within the resort and also within walking distance. Great sandy beach with all the amenities along with great snorkeling and a dive shop.
Since the divers in our group had been to Curaçao before, they opted for mostly shore diving this time around instead of boat dives. We got our tanks and suggestions from a great outfitter just a short walk from Lions Dive Resort. All the staff at Dive Bus were great!!
One pro tip: since many of the good sites are a long drive from the resorts, stay in the same location and dive one direction early morning and go the other direction for the later dive. Most beaches offer concession stands for those non divers just snorkeling or enjoying the beaches and its amenities. Also, nice to enjoy cold beverages between dives.
Curaçao has been home to many different cultures so you’ll find quite a few traditional Dutch delicacies in Curaçao alongside an array of Afro-Caribbean, Venezuelan, and Indonesian influences creating a truly special blend of flavors. Here are some of our favorite places in no particular order:
- Hemingway – Lions Dive Resort
- Nemo – Lions Dive Resort
- Seaside Terrace – Marie Pampeon Beach
- Bocas Argentinian Steaks – Mambo Beach
- El Grill & Mexicano – Mambo Beach
- Tinto Bar Y Cocina – Jan Thiel Beach
Established in 1634, Willemstad is the capital city of Curaçao. Best known for its old town center, with pastel-colored colonial architecture. The floating Queen Emma Bridge connects the Punda and Otrobanda neighborhoods across Sint Anna Bay. By the water is the 19th-century Rif Fort, now housing a shopping center.
While walking along the streets of this old city, it was wonderful to see the colorful murals in the historic district and the many shops and markets. Friendly locals welcome you and are ready to talk about the history of the island.
On my walk through town, I had seen many of these colorful sculptures. As I wandered through the streets, I encountered one of their local jobs where I got the history behind these beautiful sculptures.
The trademarked Chichi® sculpture was first created and designed by the talented artist, Serena Israel. She blended her German background and her Caribbean environment in her work. She was also inspired by the work of famous artists like Venus of Willendorf, Fernando Botero, and Niki de Saint Phalle, while still holding on to her own authenticity and creativity.
Yet, the creation of the Chichi dolls you see today is not only the result of Serena’s work but also of the many talented female painters she trained. Each with their own colorful style, passion for the art, and dedication to create a beautiful and vibrant sculpture.
What does Chichi mean? One thing you should know about the Latin-America/Caribbean culture is that they often have nicknames for people depending on their “function” in the family. In Curaçao, the older sister of the family used to be called ‘Chichi’. The Curaçao Chichi® doll represents that older sister who is a strong, proud, voluptuous Caribbean woman.
The handmade sculpture shows both the vibrancy and the power the older sister has on the family. At the same time, it shows the openness and warm-heartedness of an older sister. It’s the person that supports the mom, takes care of the little siblings, and takes on a lot of responsibilities aside from the parents.
If you happen to be in Curaçao and want to learn more about the Chichi’s, please visit the Chichi Curaçao website.
Curacao was among my favorite vacations in the Caribbean to date. The beaches, the food, the people, the vibe… I just loved it. Until we meet again, Danki.
Chicken Divers Club 
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