Curaçao is remarkably multilingual: the everyday language is Papiamentu, Dutch is official, and most people also speak fluent English and Spanish.
You can get by entirely in English in Willemstad.
Learning a few words of Papiamentu, however, delights locals: "bon dia" (good morning), "danki" (thank you), "masha danki" (thank you very much) and "kon ta bai?" (how are you?)
The creole blends Portuguese, Spanish, Dutch, African and Arawak roots, a living record of the island's history.
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Good to know
- English is widely spoken, you will have no trouble.
- Learn "bon dia" and "masha danki" to win smiles.
- Papiamentu is the heart language; Dutch is official.
Questions & answers
Do people speak English in Curaçao?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Willemstad and tourist areas, alongside Papiamentu, Dutch and Spanish.