GOVERNMENT

Curaçao, as of 10-10-2010, is an autonomous country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Locals have Dutch nationality and carry European Union passports. The form of government is a parliamentary democracy, based on underlying premises such as freedom of association, the right to form political parties, freedom of the press, and freedom of speech.

The Central Government’s jurisdiction covers mostly state affairs (legislation) and includes police, communications, taxation, public health, education, economic control, establishment of enterprises, labor legislation, money and banking.

CLIMATE

Located in the tropics, just 12° north of the Equator, Curaçao has a warm, sunny climate year round. The average temperature is about 27° C (in the mid-80s F). Cooling trade winds blow constantly from the east, picking up in the spring months. The rainy season, which is between October and February, is usually marked by short, occasional showers, mostly at night, and continued sunny weather during the day. Total annual rainfall averages only 570 mm (22 inches).

CURRENCY

Curaçao currency is the Antillean guilder (also called the florin), which is abbreviated as Nafl but U.S. dollars circulate freely, so it is possible to get by using only American dollars or credit cards.

Euros are accepted at some hotels and restaurants, but unlike U.S. dollars, they do not circulate freely. Visit www.centralbank.an for more information on the current exchange rates.

Major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere on the island. ATM machines can be found all over the island at major population centers and at the airport. To recognize an ATM machine, look for the signs “Bankomatiko” or “Geldautomaat.” Most ATMs offer the option to withdraw in local currency or US dollars.

DRIVING IN CURAÇAO

Curaçao has a public transportation system (buses), but some of our students decide to purchase (or rent) cars, motorcycles, or bicycles in order to get to and from the University. Given that Curaçao is 275.8 sq. km (171.4 sq. miles) large, having a personal means of transportation, although not necessary, may allow you to be better equipped to explore the island.

To drive in Curaçao, a valid driver's license is necessary. An international driver's license is not required. Driving takes place on the right-hand side of the road. At intersections and traffic circles, yield to traffic coming from your right unless signs indicate otherwise. At all T-crossings, through-going traffic has priority. The speed limit is 45 km/hour in town and residential areas, and 60¬-80 km/hour outside the city and on the four-lane Ring Road. Most gas stations are full service; a few are open 24 hrs.

In case of car trouble, call Roadside Assistance 24/7 Curaçao — they are at your service 24-hours a day as well.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

You can easily move about the island by bus. Curaçao offers two kinds of public transportation: the large buses, which are called ‘Konvooi’, go for a longer distance, and on most urban routes you will find vans (max. 9 p.) called ‘bus’ (they have BUS on their registration plates). The bus routes cover most parts of the island, and can bring you to beaches, shopping areas, and parks.

SAFETY

Curaçao is one of the best and safest islands in the Caribbean according to Business Insider, a popular US-based magazine. This fact allows for a harmonious and peaceful living environment. This is thanks to the combined efforts of the Curaçao Police Department, Politur (branch of the police force dedicated to the protection of tourists), Curaçao Fire Department, and Curaçao’s Emergency Services. However, use common sense and take all standard safety precautions.

WATER

Not only is Curaçao water safe to drink, it is of the finest quality. Around 1890, American wind turbines were imported to Curaçao for irrigation of the land. In 1928, a seawater distillery for production of drinking water was put into production. This Curaçao distillery, now known as Aqualectra, produces water of excellent quality. It is soft, contains no chloride and little calcium, is tasteless and odorless, and has a good bacteriological composition.

ELECTRICITY

Although both 110 and 220 electrical outlets can be found in Curaçao, 110 V is the most common throughout. Student from Europe will need an adapter plug for their round-pronged plugs. These can be found anywhere on the island, and most hotels keep them in stock and in the rooms as well. Only dual-voltage appliances from Europe can be used on the island.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS IN CURAÇAO

SMUFOM recognizes all local national holidays.

• New Year’s Day (January 1st)
• Carnival Day (Dates Vary)
• Good Friday (Dates Vary)
• Easter (Dates Vary)
• King’s Day (April 27th)
• Labor Day (May 1st)
• Ascension Day (Dates Vary)
• Flag Day (July 2nd)
• Curaçao Day (October 10th)
• Christmas Day (December 25th)
• Second Day of Christmas (December 26th)

COMMUNICATION

Curaçao's international code is +5999; there are no internal area codes. International roaming is available in Curaçao, so you will be able to make and receive calls outside the coverage area.

ACTIVITIES

Curaçao is a tourist’s dream. You will always have something to do on the island. With beautiful beaches, restaurants, nightclubs, bars, hotels, shopping malls, scuba diving, snorkeling, and many other activities, you will never be bored.