ABC Islands
The ABC islands are all located within 50 miles of each other, and they all fortuitously lie outside the hurricane belt, off the coast of Venezuela. This small archipelago boasts a wonderful climate, stunning scenery and tranquility that is second to none. Curaçao has become one of the most sought-after locales in the Caribbean. At the same time, Aruba and Bonaire share the Dutch influence, the former being more built-up and the latter sleepier and less developed than the others.
The ABC islands are part of the Dutch Caribbean and former members of the Netherlands Antilles and have their native language, Papiamentu (a mixture of Dutch, Portuguese and Spanish). While each island has its cultural traditions and historical background, few islands are as rich in either category as Curaçao. The largest of the three, Curaçao was once an important center for trade and today, a lively and unique culture is on tap.
The strikingly intense blue-colored sea is the namesake of Curaçao blue liquor and just off the northern shore of Curaçao, you can find the “blue edge.” If you love to scuba dive, the blue edge is a dream. This steep, seafloor drop-off is an incredible scuba diving experience that you won’t forget. The island also boasts spectacular coral reef dives and the south coast of Curaçao offers calmer waters with incredible anchorages, perfect for enjoying the water toys. You can explore the island by hiking and mountain biking, tracing the jagged cliffs which drop off into the sea, and the coral and limestone caves dug out by the waves.
The crown jewel of Curaçao is its capital city of Willemstad and mooring here will bring you right next to the floating market, an excellent place for souvenirs. This UNESCO world heritage site is where you will find candy-colored colonial buildings among boutiques and high-end stores, incredible restaurants and a slew of bars and clubs which deliver a buzzing nightlife.
Aruba boasts long beaches and full-service resorts, shopping opportunities and casinos. If you want to try your hand at wind and kite surfing, the island is perfect with consistent trade winds. If you’re a nature fan, check out the exotic pink birds wandering around Flamingo Beach, head to the Casibari Rock & Ayo Rock Formations, or visit the local ostrich farm.
Of the three islands, Bonaire is known for having the most spectacular diving spots. You’ll be able to swim with sea turtles, nurse sharks and stingrays across 63 official dive sites in the Bonaire Marine Park. Although tiny, only 111 square miles, and ringed by a coral reef, Bonaire boasts a big personality. The hustle and bustle simply can’t be found and with more than 22 beaches, there are multiple places to unwind. Take a beach picnic to the uninhabited Klein Bonaire, home to turtle nesting grounds.
The main port of Kralendijk has a market in Wilhelmina square for souvenirs and you can dine at one of the delectable city restaurants. If you’re keen on the activity, consider climbing to the peak of Brandaris, where you can steal a peek at Venezuela on a clear day.
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