Curaçao’s tourism industry is experiencing a surge in stayover visitors from key markets, including Brazil. Brazil currently ranks among Curaçao’s top five sources of stayover tourists. In 2023, Curaçao welcomed over 26,000 Brazilian stayover visitors. In the first quarter of 2024 alone, the island received 10,552 visitors from Brazil. This growth is attributed to improved air connectivity, such as the new direct flight introduced from Brazil in June 2023. In response to the growing influx of Brazilian tourists, the Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB) organized a Basic Portuguese language course designed for industry workers who have direct interactions with tourists. Sixty-five employees successfully completed the 10-week program and received certificates from Ruisandro Cijntje, Minister of Economic Development. The course, led by Brazilian Portuguese language professional Márcio Hypólito Pinto, met twice a week for two hours each session. It incorporated interactive sessions, phrase construction, conversation skills, pronunciation, assignments, and assessments. Participants included personnel from accommodation, transportation, diving, airport, immigration, customs, tour guiding, the Ministry of Economic Development, and CTB. This initiative aims to equip participants with the necessary linguistic tools to enhance their interactions with Brazilian tourists. The CTB continues to invest in programs that improve the overall tourist experience. This commitment to industry growth and development underscores Curaçao’s dedication to providing a welcoming and enriching experience for visitors from Brazil and beyond.
Curaçao’s Tourism Industry Boosted by Surge in Brazilian Stayover Visitors
