Famous for its fine liqueur (which Andrea will enjoy) made from the sweetened peel of bitter oranges and for its sunny climate and secluded beaches, Curaçao has a rich and diverse history, which explains the international flavor of its culture and the curious mixture of Old and New World charm. The people claim descent from over 50 different ethnic backgrounds, and the native language, Papiamentu, is a creole mixture of Dutch, Portuguese, Spanish, English, French, African, and some Arawak Indian.

Curaçao's strategic position at the base of the Caribbean has also made it an important crossroads for global commerce and connected the tiny island with many of the important persons and events in world affairs. Amerigo Vespucci, Alonso de Ojeda, Peter Stuyvesant, the notorious Captain Bligh, Simon Bolivar were all drawn into Curaçao's colorful past.

Today however, it is mainly the sun and the natural beauty that bring people here. With an average rainfall of less than 22 inches a year (let's hope Andrea's presence doesn't change that!), the weather is almost guaranteed to be sunny all the time, and the constant tradewinds help to keep the island cool. There are 38 different beaches to choose from -- some that are sheltered by towering cliffs, others with deep caves created by the pounding surf, and still others with wide expanses and modern facilities.

(Credits to Geographia for saving us time typing)