Curaçao Goes Crazy for Carnival

WILLEMSTAD, CURA�AO - February 2011 - Get ready to dance the night away in Cura�ao, the world's newest country, which is celebrating its biggest annual party, Carnival, now through March 8.

Secure a new country stamp in your passport after you hop a flight to the island's renowned, historic festival for toe-tapping dances, colorful costumes, fabulous food, and entertainment galore!

"Carnival combines African and Caribbean traditions and is a vibrant representation of our eclectic ethnic makeup in Cura�ao," says Cura�ao Tourist Board Marketing Manager North America Andr� Rojer.

"The celebration is one of complete cultural expression, showcasing the richness of our history and the diversity of our people hailing from more than 50 different nationalities. It's one of the most exciting times of the year to visit Cura�ao."

This year's Carnival gives travelers yet another reason to visit Cura�ao, with the island recently being hailed as one of the top destinations on the world's travel radar for 2011. The island was selected as one of the 'Top 21 Places We're Going in 2011 ' by Fodor's , one of the 'Hottest Destinations for 2011' by AOL Travel and one of the 'Destinations to Watch in 2011 ' by SmarterTravel.

Visitors will join thousands of spectators in lining Cura�ao's roads for the Tumba Festival, with views of intricately-costumed groups dancing in competition to the Tumba beat, an Afro-Caribbean-Latin music hybrid that is the official music of Carnival.

The Grand Carnival Parade, "Gran Marcha," on March 6, marks the peak of the Carnival celebration in Cura�ao and concludes with the Grand Farewell Parade on March 8.� Similar to Mardi Gras celebrations in the U.S., Carnival begins in February and peaks on the weekend and Tuesday preceding Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent.

Visitors will experience a cultural delight in Cura�ao during Carnival, where tens of thousands of people celebrate in the streets where Curacaoans strut their soulful stuff during the Children, Teen, "Horses" and Grand parades. In addition to festive street parades, the month-long celebration also includes beauty pageants and parties galore, generating an overall spirit of celebration in Cura�ao.�

Visitors to Cura�ao during Carnival should take advantage of the Escape The Winter Blues package, bookable through February 15, and receive a fourth night free at participating properties island-wide.

Starting February 15, the popular Cura�ao NOW! package can be booked through March 15, for a free night's stay and other value-added amenities at participating properties.

Cura�ao's Carnival season features numerous "jump-ins" (indoor parties) and "jump-ups" (outdoor parties) which are enjoyed as much by visitors as they are by locals.

For more information on Carnival or to book your trip to the island of Cura�ao please visit Curacao.com or Curacaocarnival.info.

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About Cura�ao : Selected as one of the 'Top 21 Places We're Going in 2011 ' by Fodor's , one of the 'Hottest Destinations for 2011' by AOL Travel and one of the 'Destinations to Watch in 2011 ' by SmarterTravel , Cura�ao - a UNESCO World Heritage site - boasts an eclectic mix of history and culture that welcomes visitors to this unique island paradise.

With its pristine dive sites, secluded beaches, championship golf and rich local cuisine, Cura�ao offers a little something for everyone - from the adventure traveler to those who simply want to unwind and enjoy its perfect climate.

To learn more about the island of Cura�ao visit Curacao.com.

To request a FREE Cura�ao information package click here or call toll free 1.800.328.7222.