Curaçao is a picture-perfect tropical paradise located in the southern Caribbean. Attractions include brightly painted houses, crystal clear water, a wealth of natural resources buried beneath the waves, and a comfortable year-round climate.
The extraordinary vitality of this autonomous territory of the Netherlands, home to just more than 150,000 warm and friendly locals, is sure to impress any traveler.
From its city to the coastal scenery, Curaçao is a kaleidoscope of color, making for stunning postcards that stick in the mind long after they’ve been sent.
The Colorful Capital of Willemstad
Visitors flock to this island for its breathtaking beaches and unbeatable climate. Many of them have never heard of Willemstad, the capital. Even though it’s a cosmopolitan metropolis steeped in European and African cultures and, most notably, boasting colorful colonial monuments that proudly display Caribbean tones.
The city’s unique color palette is entirely the fault of Albert Kikkert, a wacky king who, in 1817, issued a proclamation mandating that all buildings be painted pastel hues to alleviate the migraines the ruler blamed on the tremendous brightness of the white of the houses.
Even though it was determined afterward that the source of his arguments was a paint company he owned, this peculiar section remains in force. Willemstad’s historic district and harbor have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list.
It consists of two distinct areas, Punda and Otrobanda, separated by the Queen Emma Bridge across St. Anne’s Bay, and both of which provide many surprises for visitors. Even the city’s economy is heavily boosted internationally by the Curacao gambling license – becoming the largest one in the iGaming industry.
However, exploring the streets of what was once the capital of the Netherlands Antilles and discovering its architecture, markets, craft shops, and modest cafés where you can dine like a local is the best way to learn about this fascinating country.
The fusion of Dutch, Spanish, African, and even Asian flavors will blow your mind. Fish, vegetables, shellfish, pig, chicken, or goat are used in its stews, which are eaten with boiling corn or fried rice.
Caribbean Beach Life: The Real Deal
Curaçao is a popular spot for newlyweds. The beautiful sandy beaches, especially those found along the southern coast, the breathtaking sunsets, and the vivid colors lure visitors worldwide. People who like water activities, especially scuba diving, will likely visit these locations.
There are many excellent beaches, but you will need to pay a fee to access them. It’s like this with Porto Marie, a Caribbean destination that some say is the best of its kind.
Because of its remote location, a car is a must for reaching this destination. The clear waters, excellent beach, and abundance of amenities make it a prime snorkeling destination.
The Kalki cove is an excellent spot for divers, an underwater coral wall. You might witness lobsters, eels, and other stunning marine life when diving.
Blue Bay Beach, a large, shaded beach close to the village of Sint Michiel, with a variety of services, and Mambo Beach, located close to the Sea Aquarium and offers the chance to see dolphins or feed sharks, are two additional highly recommended locations near the capital that are ideal for spending the day with the family.
It’s worth noting that as the sun goes down, the beaches of Curaçao become veritable nightclubs, welcoming revelers to spend the night on the sand and in the sea.
