Culture, Cuisine & Heritage Fest 2008

Willemstad, CURAÇAO — To celebrate the diversity of the Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao, the annual Curaçao Culture, Cuisine & Heritage Experience (CCCHE) is held in August and November (2008 dates TBA). The island is home to residents descending from more than 55 different nationalities, each with its own culture, cuisine and heritage, and visitors will have the opportunity to explore these diverse cultures inside and out during this celebration. Daily activities and events planned throughout the CCCHE will provide visitors with a glimpse in to Curaçao's multi-dimensional past and the resulting flavors found on the island today.

An example of the events that take place during the culture festivals include:

• Story-telling every Saturday
• Musical performances every Friday and Sunday
• Special exhibits such as the slavery heritage exhibit at Landhouse Santa Martha
• Living History Show, a live production at Museum Kura Hulanda, that will take place every Wednesday night and allow audiences to learn about the slave trade in the 1700's and the events leading to the rebellions in the 1800's.
• Culinary walking tours
• Cultural and heritage tours
• Ancient herbs and botanical tour

Visit www.curacaoculture.com for more information on dates and locations of all scheduled activities.

Additionally, throughout the celebration, art galleries, museums and restaurants will grant special offers on purchases and admissions. Visitors will find Curaçao's thriving art community to be as rich as the island's culture.

• Participating art galleries will offer free admission or a two for one entrance price, plus a 10% discount on purchases.
• The deep heritage of Curaçao dates back hundreds of years and the local museums will offer free or discounted admission to visitors wanting to experience the history of the island.
• The cuisine of Curaçao is infused with the spices from a rainbow of cultures and during CCCHE over 30 participating restaurants will offer a 10% discount on food and beverages.

The Curaçao Culture, Cuisine & Heritage Experience is presented by the Curaçao Tourist Board. All of the participating galleries, museums, restaurants and hotels, along with their respective offers, can be found on the event website: www.curacaoculture.com. Also available on the website is a listing of all activities and special productions taking place during the CCCHE and a downloadable 'VIT' pass (Very Important Tourist) that must be presented to receive the special discounts and promotional offers at participating vendors throughout the festival.

Curaçao, located outside of the hurricane belt, boasts an eclectic mix of history and culture, which creates 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 offer daily flights into Curaçao through Miami. Continental Airlines provide weekly service to Curaçao through Newark. Contact hotels or travel agents directly for more information. To learn more about Curaçao, to receive a free destination DVD, or Experience Curaçao vacation planner, please contact 1-800-3- CURAÇAO (1-800-328-7222).