We already saw the B of the
ABC Islands of the southern Caribbean (Bonaire) now we visit Curaçao (the C) and last we see Aruba (The A). It was the most populated of the 3 islands and I suppose the most industrious. Again a great spot to dive (as he forgets his padi card at home
idiot oh well still had a blast
) This was one of our favorite stops.
click on image twice for larger view
#1 - We like to start most days with a beautiful ocean sunrise
#2 - The view of the town from the ship you can already see it's more of a city.
#3 - We had to walk over the pontoon Bridge a bit of history :
Origin —Built in 1888 by Leonard Burlington Smith, and named after Queen Emma (1890–1898), this bridge connects the Punda and Otrobanda districts.
Points of interest —16 floating pontoon boats support the “Pontoon Bridge.” Also known as the “Swinging Old Lady,” it swings open using two powerful ship motors, allowing ships to access the port. From 1901 to 1934, people had to pay a toll to cross the bridge — with the exception of pedestrians going barefoot. When the bridge is open to let ships from the harbour pass, pedestrians are transported free of charge by the ponchi, a small ferry.
The bridge has recently been restored to its glory. All asphalt was taken off and replaced by original wooden boards, the pontoons were repaired or replaced, and at night the "swinging old lady" now swings in living color with her new lights.
In 2013 the Queen Emma Bridge is 125 years old and this is celebrated in a truly Curacaoan style.
#4 - Let a small boat go through
#5 - The girls were already on the other side - they saw shopping opportunities
#6 - Here's a better view of the Swinging Old Lady - reading the sign when it opens up for a cruise ship it can take 45 minutes to open and close. There is a water taxi that will take you across in those cases.
#7 - Here's a cruise ship (not ours) that was indeed on the other side of the bridge
Originally posted by RoxnDox 
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