WILLEMSTAD - The Marriott Beach Resort in Piscadera Bay is gearing up for a remarkable transformation to exclusively accommodate Jewish guests during Passover, the Jewish holiday that will be celebrated from today until April 30. This was reported by the website pitane.blue.
This period is essential for the Jewish community as it commemorates the exodus from Egypt and is central to their traditions of reflection and renewal.
The preparations for this special occasion are intensive and include the construction of new tennis courts, the replacement of beach chairs, and, most notably, the conversion of kitchen facilities to meet the kosher dietary requirements of Jewish guests.
The kitchen undergoes the most significant changes, with everything being adjusted to strictly adhere to kosher standards, including training staff in kashrut and the ritual consecration of new kitchen utensils.
These extensive adjustments are necessary to ensure that Jewish guests can adhere to their religious prescriptions during Passover, a time when removing yeast and fermented products from households symbolizes the removal of pride and arrogance.
The seder meals, held on the first two evenings of Passover, are an essential part of the celebration and require specific dishes rich in symbolism.
The impact of this exclusivity is also felt by the regular guests and staff of the resort. Other guests are not allowed during this period, and the staff must make extra efforts to get everything ready on time. Additionally, TUI crew members, who normally stay at the resort almost daily, must relocate to other accommodations in Willemstad.
This exclusive event underscores the strong ties between the Jewish community and Curaçao, an island where Jews have played an important role in both the economy and culture since the 17th century.
This pioneering spirit has had a lasting impact on the island's economy and culture. However, over the years, the Jewish population has experienced demographic shifts, including emigration and an increase in mixed marriages, leading to a decrease in the number of Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews on the island.
The history of the Jewish community is deeply rooted in Curaçao, as emphasized once again by the organization of this major event at the Marriott Beach Resort.