CURAÇAO LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE FOR GAY TRAVELERS
WILLEMSTAD, CURAÇAO
“Live and let live†That is the philosophy on the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao, which has just launched an alternate lifestyle website for visitors, www.gaycuracao.com.
The website is specifically developed to showcase the island as a “gay friendly†destination. It is a unique and in-depth resource for the gay traveler looking for a little help in navigating the island and knowing where to stay and what to do and see.
The Curaçao Tourist Board is committed to welcoming all visitors to the island and hope that this new integrated tool will help spread the word to the gay and lesbian community and encourage travel. “We understand that travelers are concerned about how they will be welcomed and if their lifestyle choice is understood when visiting a destination,†commented Jim Hepple, director of tourism. “This website not only shows that we are open to all walks of life, but that we embrace it and have attractions and hotels that specifically support the lifestyle.â€
Gaycuracao.com highlights the many hotels on island that are members of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association and provides a listing of places to gather and meet other gay travelers, as well as locals.
The website lists the weekend hot spots, citing Limbo Bar, Curaçao’s official gay bar, or Mambo Beach as the place to be every Saturday night while TuTu Tango, Jacob’s Bar at Hotel Kura Hulanda, Wet & Wild and De Gouverneur are the Thursday, Friday and Sunday night hot spots.
One of the other key features of the website is its bulletin boards where past visitors can share their experiences on island and potential travelers can ask questions and seek advice. “The bulletin board is a great community building tool,†Hepple said. “Plus people are often more reassured and feel a greater level of comfort to hear an endorsement of the island’s gay-friendliness from an independent traveler rather then an island sponsored website, and they can find that here.â€
(Right) Picture of downtown Willemstad Рisland of Cura̤ao
Additionally, visitors to the website can find an overview of the island, its location and history, island activities and highlights and links for making travel arrangements. The island of Curaçao, located outside of the hurricane belt, boasts an eclectic mix of history and culture, which has served to create a Caribbean experience like no other.
Also known for its eco-tourism and pristine diving conditions, Curaçao attracts the adventure traveler as well as those looking to unwind and enjoy its perfect climate. Visitors to Curaçao will enjoy an 18-hole championship golf course, casinos and much more.
American Airlines and Air Jamaica offer domestic flights into Curaçao. Contact hotels or travel agents directly for more information.
To learn more about Curaçao or to receive a free destination DVD contact 1-800-3-CURAÇAO (1-800-328-7222) or visit www.curacao-tourism.com