Last Minute Deals for Carnival in Curacao

January 2005 - Carnival's eight-week whirlwind of festivities has begun and this year the celebration is even bigger as it marks the 35th anniversary of Curaçao's Carnival. There's still time to visit the island and enjoy the parades, street dances and culinary delights that flood the streets of Willemstad, now through February 19, 2005.

Carnival February 2005 highlights include:

Carnival Parade at Banda Bou -- Feb. 5 A full day of revelry in the streets.

Midnight Ban Topa (Otrabanda); Midnight Kaya Grandi Festival (Punda)-- Feb. 5 The streets close for lively bands, dancing and vendors selling local fare.

Grand Carnival Parade -- Feb. 6 Considered the "tour de force" of the season with non-stop street parties all day long.

Grand Farewell Parade -- Feb. 8 The Carnival season closes with one last parade. The nighttime march has a special magic and floats are festooned with sparkling lights. At midnight King Momo is burned in effigy, as legend requires, pleasing the gods.

Vacationers wanting to enjoy the fabulous festivities can take advantage of the following special package deals:

Coral Estate Resorts
Coral Estate Resorts, located on the southwestern shore of Curaçao, is offering guests a special rate for their El Pueblo Bungalows during Carnival season. The El Pueblo bungalows feature two bedrooms with air conditioning, two bathrooms, a large porch, living room, a fully equipped kitchen and a magnificent view overlooking the ocean. Rates during carnival season start at $172.50 a night per bungalow. For reservations or more information visit www.coral-estate.com.

Hilton Curaçao
The Hilton Curaçao presents a special "Carnival Package" for 2005. The deal includes welcome cocktail upon arrival, complimentary use of tennis courts during daytime, complimentary use of fitness center, sauna and Jacuzzi and complimentary use of towels and lounges at pool and beach. Rates start at $150 (without breakfast) or $180 (with daily full American breakfast buffet for two) and are per room, per night based on double occupancy.

The Carnival Package requires a minimum two-night reservation and a one-night (non-refundable) deposit. There are no blackout dates and the package is valid now through February 12, 2005. To book the Carnival Package contact the hotel directly at +599-9-462-5000 and mention "Carnival Package" with or without breakfast. For more information on the Hilton Curaçao visit www.hilton.com.

Hotel Kura Hulanda
Hotel Kura Hulanda joins Curacao's Carnival celebration with special packages that feature welcome drinks in Jacob's Bar, a welcome gift from Museum Kura Hulanda, a local Jazz CD as a bedtime gift on the first night, dinner poolside on evening of choice at the Jaipur Restaurant, unlimited use of fitness facility, complimentary chaise lounges at swimming pools and beach, complimentary transportation to Kura Hulanda Beach Club and all taxes and service charges.

Rates range from $750 for a three-night package in a standard room to $1250 for a three-night package in a junior suite. Rates are per package for two persons and are valid from February 1 - 28, 2005. For more information on these packages call 1-877-264-3106 or email reservations@kurahulanda.com.

Curaçao, located outside of the hurricane belt, boasts an eclectic mix of history and culture, which has served to create 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 and Air Jamaica all offer flights into Curaçao. Certain limitations apply on Curaçao family packages. Contact hotels or travel agents directly for more information. To learn more about Curaçao or to receive a free destination DVD contact 1-800-3-CURAÇAO (1-800-328-7222) or visit www.Curacao-tourism.com.

SOURCE Curacao Tourism