Beginning on March 18, 2025 and going until March 25, 2025, I was privileged to vacation in a Dutch country in the Caribbean: Curaçao. For months prior, my family spent time researching to try to make the most out of the week we would spend there. Each Monday, a member from my family would share a fact or a group of facts that may be helpful to know on our vacation. We learned a lot by doing this, and many things we learned were useful and fun to see reflected when we were there.
My family’s favorite part of visiting Curaçao was experiencing the distinct Dutch culture. Dushi, a word in Papiamento (the local language) that we initially learned from my sister’s Monday fact, was seen everywhere: on storefronts, billboards, engraved in stones, and on clothing. Dushi is essentially Curaçao’s philosophy, with the meaning fluid and changing depending on the circumstances. It is a word of endearment, as found with a Google search, however being in Curaçao taught me that the word means more. It encapsulates the energy of the island, and is used in any positive setting.
The astounding culture is visible in the architecture, as well. Colorful buildings line all of the streets, creating a truly amazing sight. Besides the architecture, we explored the natural beauty of the island by visiting the beaches. The sea was full of life, with snorkeling that could entertain someone for an entire day!