Bon Bini From Curaçao!

with Caroline Booth

“First off I'd like to thank you," said
André Rojer, Marketing
Manager North America of the Curaçao Tourist Board during a recent
agent dinner presentation. “We had a spectacular winter season from
Toronto. Our planes flew over 97% full and that is thanks to you
guys." Although last winter's extreme cold temperatures were
a motivating factor for travellers heading down south, Canadians are
indeed showing increased interest in this Dutch
Caribbean island that offers its visitors a full range of experiences
in addition to the typical sun sand and sea vacation. That means good
business for all.

To meet visitor demand, Air Canada Vacations now offers
non-stop year round weekly service from YYZ to CUR, whereas
prior to that, flights were only available in the winter season. May 7
^th marked
the 1
^st flight of the summer rotation and to
support efforts on the ground the Tourist Board together
with Air Canada Vacations hosted 2 information sessions in Toronto for
agents to learn about why their clients should go to Curaçao.

Chandra
Smouse, Industry Liaison North America with the Tourist Board is well aware
that agents sell a lot more of the better known islands, and was ready to make
her case. "After I finish speaking with you, I'm sure I will convince you that
you really need to look seriously at this particular one." The Air Canada Vacations
package options for Curaçao include 14 resorts, and present this evening for agents to meet
were representatives from Acoya, Marriot,
Renaissance and Sunscape (by AMResorts). And, guests who stay at Sunscape, Marriott, Hilton or
Avila Hotel can take advantage of Air
Canada Vacations' added value Privileges
Program.

Located
just north of Venezuela and on the outer fringes of the hurricane belt, Curaçao is the largest of the
ABC islands that includes Aruba and Bonaire. The Arawak people were the
original inhabitants before discovery by the Spanish in 1499. French and
English laid claim at various times and the Netherlands took final control in
the early 19th century. According to Smouse, Curaçao became a true melting pot for ethnicity when the Shell oil
refinery came to the island in 1925. It was the 3
^rd largest
refinery in the world and in need of workers, so a global recruiting spree
brought in people from everywhere. Generations later the result is a land steeped in rich
diversity - 55 different nationalities to be exact!

The
historic port area of Willemstad, also the country's capital, was
designated a UNESCO World Heritage City in 1997 for recognition of its success
at sustaining a healthy and vibrant multicultural community over the past 3
centuries. The brightly painted Dutch architecture inspired buildings that line
the streets make for a uniquely European feel which is different that what
one might expect from a Caribbean destination. Getting around by foot is
easy and while taking in the sights visitors can enjoy cafés, art galleries and
duty free shopping at the many island boutiques. For a bit of history, be sure
to visit the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue which is the oldest Jewish synagogue
in the western hemisphere still in use.

After time spent in the city travellers are encouraged to rent a car
and explore the island. “The reason why we like Canadians so much
is that they are adventurous," said Rojer. "They get out of the
resort, they go hiking and jumping and snorkelling. Getting lost is part of the
adventure." Jeep tours and ATV excursions are available, and how about a visit
to the island's 1st winery or an ostrich farm, which by the way, is the largest
ostrich farm outside of Africa.

Under
water, diving enthusiasts will be kept busy by exploring the 40 different dive
zones, and those who prefer not to get suited up can take a trip in
the Curasub. This new attraction by Substation Curaçao is a certified
mini-submarine that lets passengers get a glimpse of marine life, coral and old
shipwrecks.

Thanks to year round access, visitors can now enjoy the many
special events that go on throughout the year. Coming up during the last
weekend of May is the 1st edition of Viva La Musica Latina Curaçao.
The beginning of June is restaurant week where foodies can take advantage
of a prix fixe menu at participating restaurants and enjoy dishes that are as
varied in flavour as the island's culture. The North Sea Jazz Fest in September
is known to attract big names such as Diana Ross, Lionel Ritche, Paul Anka,
John Legend, Alicia Keys and Bruno Mars to name a few, and at the end of
September is the Annual Pride week celebration. In November is the KLM Marathon,
and the event that Rojer most looks forward to is Carnival that takes place in
February where the island comes alive with music, colours and partying.

With
so much going on there is something for every client to enjoy, and definitely
an island that agents should look seriously at.