DIRECTORY DIRECTOR: Neida Eva Wilhelm EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Esteban Velazquez Wilhelm CREATIVE DIRECTOR: Carlos Graterol MARKETING: July Karen Rodríguez y Elsa Pérez Brash WRITERS: Ana María Brillembourg Olavarría
Alvaro Zingg / Juliana Maza / Esteban Velázquez Wilhelm PHOTOGRAPHERS: Florian Duenker. Thanks in this issue: Kura Hulanda Hotel - Willemstad. COVER MODEL: Alica Klindw.
WILHELM TRAVELERS
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www.wilhelmmagazine.com
Curaçao A TRULY UNIQUE Destination
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ee what makes Curaçao special! Exquisite beaches and spectacular diving, stunning architecture, activities, and adventures for every interest - plus multicultural diversity, intriguing music, art, and cuisine. Experience the best of Curacao.
Catch Some Sun, Sand & Surf – Whether you are a sun-loving vacationer or here on business, you can choose between intimate rocky coves surrounded by massive cliffs or long sandy beaches, either secluded by nature or bustling with activities.
Diving Paradise – Curaçao offers some of the best diving in the world. Our spectacular dive locations provide some of the most colorful and awe inspiring scenes imaginable. Historic Port Capital – A visit to Willemstad brings you Old World charm and contemporary culture. This lively city’s dynamic architecture, activities, and neighborhoods shape the island’s historic center. Vibrant Architecture – Curaçao’s rich history comes alive in the stunning architecture to be seen all across the island — especially in its capital city, Willemstad.
Jewish Culture – From the time they first arrived seeking a haven from persecution, Curaçao’s small, Jewish community has had an extraordinary impact on the island’s economy, politics, and culture. Vibrant Art Scene – Curaçao is proud to host many painters and talented artists. Learn more about these photographers, sculptors, and designers. Weather & Scenery – 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).
Colorful History – Curaçao’s ethnic inhabitants -- the Arawak, Dutch, Spanish, West Indian, Latin, and African -- have created a rich heritage and thriving culture.
Carnival! Dancing and Music! – It’s one of the largest and longest-lasting Carnival spectacles of the Caribbean — starting in early January, and ending late February/ March.
European Flavor – The Dutch influence on Curaçao is as omnipresent as the centuriesold colonial buildings.
Friendly and Laidback – With exceptional gay-friendly hotels and attractions, we invite gay and lesbian travelers to visit and experience our ‘live and let live’ atmosphere for themselves.
African Heritage – African culture beats like a proud and festive heart throughout the island of Curaçao.
Create A Fantastic Vacation On Curaçao Escape to the Caribbean’s hidden treasure. Fall in love with Curacao’s world-class diving and beaches, invigorating outdoor adventure, and welcoming culture. Make your Curaçao travel arrangements today! Curaçao
Vibrant Art Scene – Curaçao is proud to host many painters and talented artists. Learn more about these. photographers, sculptors, and designers. Weather & Scenery – 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). Carnival! Dancing and Music! – It’s one of the l a r g e s t a n d longest-lasting Carnival spectacles of the Caribbean — starting in early January, and ending late February / March. Friendly and Laidback – With exceptional gay-friendly hotels and attractions, we invite gay and lesbian travelers to visit and experience our ‘live and let live’ atmosphere for themselves. Create A Fantastic Vacation On Curaçao Escape to the Caribbean’s hidden treasure. Fall in love with Curaçao’s world-class diving and beaches, invigorating outdoor adventure, and welcoming culture. Make your Curaçao travel arrangements today!
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THE SANDTON HOTEL Kura Hulanda and Spa. Quality, history and comfort
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nly 15 minutes drive from the airport, the Sandton Hotel Kura Hulanda and Spa is located on the glorious St. Anna Bay in central Willemstad (the capital city of Curaรงao) walking distance to reach the floating Queen Emma Bridge, to many restaurants, shops, and museums.
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This Dutch Colonial historic district is a World Heritage site by
UNESCO.”
The 65 buildings that comprise the Sandton Hotel Kura Kura Hulanda are Hulanda Spa - a magnificent haven for massages, facials and treatments and also a member of the leading Spas, our Casino and Museum Kura Hulanda acclaimed worldwide, all in one amazin collection architecture of the eighteenth and nineteenth century.
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The Sandton Hotel Kura Hulanda and Spa is a boutique resort, luxury, 80-room, with its unique location.
Come see why we are a member of Small Leading Hotels in the World.
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All guest rooms combine historic luxury with contemporary needs. The furniture is truly unique with carved mahogany and teak, antiques and fantastic replicas and linens from India.
Curtains delicately woven nets, four poster beds that provide comfort and romance. Each room is decorated hand painted by local artisans.
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CURAÇAO´S BEACHES By Alvaro Zingg
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uraçao’s beaches are its best-kept secret. The best beaches are not the long, expansive patches of sand found in other islands, but rather smaller, more intimate beaches found in secluded inlets, called “bocas” in Papiamentu. Many of the best beaches are found at the west end of the island, which is fittingly named Westpunt, or “west point”.
The island claims to have 38 beaches in all, yet you’ll certainly find more along the secluded and rough coastlines of the eastern and northern coasts. Some of the beaches, “playas” in Papiamentu or Spanish, have changing and picnic facilities and charge a small admission, while others are wide open and free of both admission and facilities.
Topless sunbathing and swimming is tolerated on most beaches in the resort areas, but not on resort grounds. Tip! - The Natural Mini-Resort is the only “clothing optional” resort on Curaçao. Visitors for one day have to pay Naf. 10,-
KALKI BEACH Sandy beach with limestone cliffs. This is surely one of the most attractive snorkeling and diving spots on Curaçao. Kalki means limestone in Papiamentu and refers to the limestone cliffs At the corals you will find a sculptured fist with a lable carrying the name of the coral. The trees and quiet surroundings ensure a pleasant atmosphere. This small inlet lies in Westpunt, right near Kura Hulanda Lodge.
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JEREMI BEACH Visit this narrow, picturesque cove late in the day, perhaps lingering to watch the sun set, when you can fully appreciate the exceptionally clear waters without minding the lack of shade. There are no amenities. Curaรงao
WESTPUNT BEACH This is where the day’s catch is brought to land. A sight seer’s beach, Westpunt is not ideal for a day of sunbathing or swimming. Don’t forget your shoes or sandals or you will be punished! Its pebbly surface won’t allow you to go barefoot.
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KNIP BEACH Knip Beach is very popular with the Curacaoan’s themselves. Knip Beach lets you swim and sunbathe in one of the most beautiful surroundings on Curaçao. For the well trained swimmers, the reef can be reached from the beach, but it is quite a long swim. Snorkeling can be done much closer to the shore nearthe rocks on either side of Knip Beach.
LITTLE KNIP BEACH Blend in with the the local population at this beautiful but small beach. This is where you will find Curaçao an families spend the whole day playing, swimming and even have their barbecue. See the Virtual View to get the feel of the place. It won’t be this quiet when you visit Little Knip Beach in the weekend, though!on either side of Knip Beach.
BOCA SANTA CRUZ
A beach which Curaรงao ans loves to visit in the weekends. You will definitely encounter Captain Goodlife. A legend on Curaรงao. Many famous people have come to pay him a visit. Though it has become a little bit commercialized and now even has a restaurant, the water tours with Captain Goodlife are still a ton of fun!
DAAIBOOI BEACH Daaibooi Beach is a local beach. It has a serene surrounding and the beach has has shallow water, perfect for snorkeling. There is a bar-restaurant with fair prices. Also there are some parasols (palapas) available. The entry to the beach is free, and renting a beach chair is possible.
PORTO MARI BEACH
White sandy beach with parasols. There are showers and toilets and a bar with a large terrace. A very suitable beach for children.
Attractive snorkel and diving spot with special facilities for divers. Even in the weekends the beach is quiet.
A raft for sunbathing and playing is moored off the beach. There is a bar, restaurant, showers, toilets, massage facility and dive shop. Cas Abao is open daily. Curaรงao
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CAS ABAO BEACH Cas Abao Beach offers you a white sandy beach, crystal clear waters, waving palm trees and many parasols. Cas Abao is ideal for swimmers, and its reefs a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers.
It can get a little bit crowded in the weekends. This beach has a little bit of history.
PIRATE BAY BEACH This full service beach offers: watersports, dive operator, beachbar and a great restaurant. Nearby resort/hotel: Floris Suite Hotel
BARBARA BEACH
Barbara Beach was one of our favorite beaches. It was a beautiful beach, not tightly laid down, quiet except on Sundays... boats wilt local come to chat and/or pick-nick. This tradition is still ongoing. But the beach is now part of a new but beautiful resort with golf course.
KLEIN CURACAO BEACH
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Klein Curaรงao is an island like no other. Mermaid Boat Trips is the only boat tour that takes guests directly onto the island. In just 2 hours, you will be swept away to a unique paradise.
This island has the only white powder sand beaches in the area. And because this is a deserted island, you will have total privacy to do whatever you like. Curaรงao
CABANA BEACH This full service beach offers: watersports, dive operator Toucan Diving, shops, beachbar and a great restaurant. Kontiki beach is the place to catch your breath and get ready for your next dive. The surf is tamed by a wave breaker , making it ideal for children to play along the waterline.
MAMBO BEACH It’s also the nightlife beach of Curaçao. Frequently performances of artists, and a good restaurant. It’s a few minutes walk from Lions Dive & Beach Hotel. See fore more information at: www.mambocuraçao.com (Dutch language)
JAN THIEL BEACH Lounge on the cement quays beside the large open bay, which has excellent diving and snorkeling. The beach is located in a new upscale residential area east of town. There is little sand, but children enjoy the semi-closed wading area that resembles a swimming pool.
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ROYAL CARIBBEAN Stops at Willemstad By: Alvaro Zingg
T
he Royal Caribbean Cruise ship Grandeur of the Seas Southern Caribbean cruise stops at Willemstad, Curaçao. This city was named after one of two Williams, no one is sure which but the second possibility became the King of England. This city dates back to the Dutch West India Company and traded with the Spanish Colonies of the era of the Spanish Main as well as with French and British possessions. Curaçao is one of three islands in the Netherlands Antilles. Willemstad is a historic city with hundred of buildings that date back to the 1600’s. The city is divided in two parts, Punda and Otrobanda, connected by the Queen Emma pontoon bridge. An important point for tourists is that both parts of the city offer duty free shopping so bring your credit card and a large bag to carry your loot.
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Willemstad has thrived for nearly 400 years as a trade center as, unlike Cartagena, Old Havana, or Casco Viejo in Panama City it is a small island and does not have an “interior” from which to draw products. For a midday snack try Asia de Cuba, a Cuban-Asian fusion restaurant in the Zuidertuintje Shopping Center. Another great choice is La Casa Argentina on Santa Rosa Weg 40. The fact is that wherever you stroll or shop you will probably find a restaurant in Willemstad, Curaçao with excellent food and reasonable prices. In this city take a time just to walk around and appreciate the mixture of cultures that evolved in this trade center of the Caribbean. Just don’t to involved and forget return to the Enchantment of the Seas for the next stop on this great cruise.
WALKING WILLEMSTAD By Alvaro Zingg
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he oldest part of Willemstad is Punda, situated in the east of the St. Anna Bay. Punda, a derivation of the Dutch word “punt” that means “point”, was established in 1634 when the founding merchants built offices, warehouses, stores and living quarters on the eastern side of the bay. Punda is the historical part of Willemstad, together with Otrabanda, which is situated on the west side of the St. Anna Bay, they form the historical city centre of Willemstad. Punda is verry diverse. Together with old colonial architectural buildings you can find modern shopping facilities. You can taste and see the beautiful colonial influences from earlier days and the modern economic influences of nowadays. It is a perfect combination for a day out. The most important and visible remaining of the colonial days is Fort Amsterdam. It is therefore Curaçao’s oldest and most prominent monument. It was built in 1635 to dominate the harbor entrance and protect the city. Nowadays the governor’s palace is situated in Fort Amsterdam, here the governor of the Netherlands Antillenlives and reigns over the islands together with their ministers.
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In Fort Amsterdam the protestant Fort Church was build in 1763, but due to financial problems they finished it in 1771. Since 1990 this building is converted into the Fort Church museum. In front of Fort Amsterdam the Waterfort was build, between 1826-1830 to protect the old city. But due to high costs the original plans were never carried out. In 1955 they decided to build a hotel in the courtyard of the Waterfort: the Plaza Hotel. The Plaza Hotel is a city hotel, in the Plaza Hotel there is a restaurant situated in the Penthouse. From this restaurant you have a beautiful view over the city. In the arches of the Waterfort there are shops and restaurants. On the Handelskade, in front of the world famious “Penha Building” you can enjoy refreshments at the international cafe while ships past right in front of your noise. When visiting Punda you must take a walk over the Queen Emma Bridge, also called the “Swinging Old Lady” or Pontoon bridge by the inhabitants. It is a 168 meter floating pontoon bridge made of wood. It is the only one in the world of its kind.
“It was built in 1635 to dominate the harbor entrance and protect the city.”
When you are on the Queen Emma Bridge or on the Otrabanda side, take a look to the Punda side and you will see 18th century houses with Spanish and Dutch colonial influences. A beautiful view to capture on picture. The Mikve Israel-Emanuel synagogue is the oldest synagogue of the western hemisphere. It dates back from 1732 and it is continuously being used. Therefore it has also the oldest active Jewish congregation in the Western Hemisphere The Jewish historical museum is connected with the synagogue. It was established in 1969. It includes interesting displays of unusual objects, illustrating the culture, practices and history of the Jewish community. One of the many museums located on the Punda side in Scharloo in Punda is the Maritime Museum which makes the history of Curaçao come to life. There is a permanent exhibition offering a view of the Maritime developments throughout the ages. It is also possible to make a harbor cruise on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
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In the oldest building of Punda the Postal Museum is located and also the office of the Downtown Management Organisation. The goal of the museum is to introduce all the post stamps of Curaçao and the Netherlands Antilles to the visitors. The collection starts with stamps from the year 1873 till now. There can also be seen design examples and techniques. There is also a changing exposition that is developed by locals. Your Punda experience is not completed if you have not visited the floating market. Here, Venezuelan salesmens sell their goods directly from their boats. All the goods come from Venezuela and are fresh everyday. The boats sell fruits, vegetables and fish. When you walk a bit further from the St. Anna Bay you will walk towards the Post office. Across the Post Office the “round market” is located. On this market you can buy almost everything. From fruit and meat to music, it is open from 7.00 am to 14.00 pm. It is a good experience to discover the local culture. This can also be done at the “Old Market”, the “Plasa Bieu”. From 11.30 am to 14.00 pm you can enjoy al sorts of local food for a small price. It is a real local experience.
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For a shopping experience Punda is also the best place to be. Most of the shopping is concentrated on several streets: Breedestraat, Handelskade, Herenstraat, Madurostraat and the Gomezplein. There is a wide variety of shops to visit. But if you choose to shop in the stores that belong to the Quality Establishments organization you are guaranteed quality merchandise.
In the beginning of the street Deli France is located, you can also visit it for a nice lunch, or if you lake fastfood you can visit Mcdonalds which is located on the other side of the parking place. In Punda there are enough parking facilities. There are three parking places: De Ruijterkade, Pietermaai and the Marichi. It is no problem to visit Punda by car, the parking costs are only Nafl. 0,50 per half hour. Besides a great shopping and cultural experience Punda also offer a great art experience. Some of the many alleys in Punda are changed into artworks. The goal of this project is to make these alleys cleaner and more beautiful. The most Quality establishments are located in the Breedestraat and the Herenstraat which are also beautiful streets to walk in. When you walk through the Breedestraat you will go to the Wilheminaplein and the Wilhelminapark. On the Wilhelminaplein the restaurants Goodfellas and Plein café Wilhelmina are located. Here you can eat and drink on a beautiful square. On the Wilhelminaplein the Police office, the Town Hall and the Tele Museum are situated. In the Wilheminapark there is also a children’s playground.
The project is called Artsi Punda. You can find these artworks at the Keukenplein, the Smallesteeg and the Windstraat. The Windstraat is designed by artist Nena Sanchez. For the sportive tourist or the adventurous one there is also a diving place in the St. Anna Bay. You can dive to two ship wrecks: the Alphen and the Mediator.
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THE HARBOR TOWN CHARM From The North Sea to the Tropics
Photographer: Florian Duenker. Model: Alica Klindw. Styling: Julia Mader Hair & MakeUp: Angelina Jain. Assistent: Daniela & Vivian.
COS Shorts: COS Shoe: Zara Bag: stylists own bracelets: stylists own
COS Flower Jeans: citizens of humanity Shoe & Bag: stylists own Glasses: Ray Ban
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Helmut Lang Shorts: Zara bracelets & Necklace: Bijoux Brigitte bag: stylists own Image
H&M Trousers: Hallhuber Bag & Shoe Zara Necklace: Stylists own
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dress: Mango Jacket: H&M glases: H&M bag: stylists own
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Shirt and trousers: Zara Bikini Top: Stylists own necklace: H&M shoe: Zara
SWIMMING WITH
DOLPHINS in Curaรงao
D
uring the intimate and informative programs of Dolphin Academy you will discover the myth behind dolphins.
he dolphins live in large natural lagoons where you can meet them. During the interactive programs you will learn everything about dolphins.
Dolphin Encounter
$99,- (Âą â‚Ź65,90)
Caress, hug and kiss a dolphin while learning everything about him or her! While you stay up to your waist in the water, the dolphin will come to you so you can touch him or her. The trainer tells everything about the dolphin. The dolphin shows you various parts of his or her body and various behaviors. This program is a relaxed and interactive way to learn a lot about dolphins. Participation is open to all ages and also for pregnant women. Children up to 4 years will even pay half of the price.
Dolphin Swim
$174,- (± €117,73) Swimming with dolphins in their natural lagoon is an intimate, unforgettable experience. The dolphins will swim beside you, so you can touch them. Then you will give the dolphins several signals and they will sing, dance, spin and much more. The highlight of the Dolphin Swim is the dorsal ride: two dolphins will pick you up for a ride while you are holding their dorsal fins.
Assistent Dolphin Trainer Course $349,-/$449,- (± €258,42 / €332,47)
In two or three days (depending on the level) children from 9-14 years can learn how to train a dolphin. Lessons and games in the classroom alternate with interaction with the dolphins. You will learn everything about the dolphins. You will also perform activities behind the scenes, such as food preparation in the fish kitchen. At the end of the course you will participate in a public demonstration!
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Dolphin Free Dive (Snorkel) $184,- (Âą â‚Ź125,14)
Experience the dolphins under water! Almost all of the interaction will happen under water and therefore free dive experience is required. In addition you will participate in an echolocation experiment. The dolphins will give you an underwater dorsal ride. That means that they will pick you up for a ride while you are holding their dorsal fins.
Dolphins-In-Depth
Dolphin Scuba Encounter
During this course students of 15 years or older will learn a lot about dolphins in two or three days (depending on the level). This course combines sessions in a classroom as well as water sessions with the dolphins. During this course you will learn all the insights of becoming a dolphin trainer. The final exam is participation during a Dolphin Show with spectators.
Dive into the natural dolphin lagoon and have a personal encounter with a dolphin. Observe the behavior of the dolphin in their world while you touch him or her. You don’t need a scuba certification for this program. This program can be booked through Ocean Encounters Dive School.
$349,-/$549,- (± €258,42 / €406,52)
$234,- (± €173,27)
Dolphin Academy is located at Sea Aquarium Open: Every day from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Every day there are Dolphin Shows at 10.30 am, 1.30 pm and 4.30 pm. Call for Reservations: +5999 465 8900 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Website: www.dolphin-academy.com Email:info@dolphin-academy.com The Euro-rates are based on the latest known ECB-currency exchange rates. Nearbij Hotels and Resorts
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TROPICAL FRUITS health and beauty supplies
ruits are nature’s wonderful gift to mankind; indeed, medicines packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and many phytonutrients (Plant derived micronutrients). They are an absolute feast to our sight, not just because of their color and flavor but for their unique nutritionprofile that help the human body free of diseases and stay healthy!
1.- Fruits are low
in calories and fat and are a source of simple sugars, fiber, and vitamins, which are essential for optimizing our health.
2.- Fruits provide plenty of
soluble dietary fiber, which helps to ward of cholesterol and fats from the body and to get relief from constipation as well.
by Juliana Maza Valentiner
3.-
Fruits contain many anti-oxidants like poly-phenolic flavonoids, vitamin-C, and anthocyanins.These compounds, firstly, help human body protected from oxidant stress, diseases, and cancers,
4.-
Anthocyanins are flavonoid category of poly-phenolic compounds found in some “blue-fruits” like blue-black grapes, mulberries, acai berry, chokeberry, blueberries, blackberries, and in many vegetables featuring blue or deep purple color. Eating fruits rich in blue pigments offers many health benefits. These compounds have potent anti-oxidant properties, remove free radicals from the body, and thus offer protection against cancers, aging, infections, etc.
minerals, micro-nutrients, anti-oxidants, which helps the body prevent or at least prolong the natural changes of aging by protecting and rejuvenating cells, tissues and organs. Their overall benefits are manifold! Fruit nutrition benefits are infinite! You are protecting yourself from minor ailments like wrinkling of skin, hair-fall, and memory loss to major ailments l i k e a g e related macular degenerat i o n (AMRD) of the retina in the eyes, Alzheimer’s disease, colon cancers, weak bones (osteoporosis)…etc., and the list of fruit nutrition benefits never ends!
and secondly; help the body develop capacity to fight against these ailments by boosting our immunity level. Many fruits, when compared to vegetables and cereals, have very high anti-oxidant value, which is something measured by their “Oxygen Radical Absorbent Capacity” or (ORAC).
These pigments tend to concentrate just underneath the skin.
5.- Fruit’s health
benefiting properties are because of their richness in vitamins,
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