20 Reasons You Need to Visit Curacao

When you think of the Caribbean, perhaps your mind wanders to Cuba or the Dominican Republic. Or maybe Jamaica or the Bahamas is more your speed. What about St. Lucia, or Turks and Caicos? That might be where it’s at. But if you want to try somewhere different, why not the Dutch Caribbean island of Curacao? Just east of Aruba, above Venezuela, it’s so much better than you could ever imagine. If you gotta get away, get to Curacao.

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The architecture

I know the primary reason for a holiday, particularly in the Caribbean, isn't checking out buildings and museums, but with its Dutch colonial architecture, Curacao is like a little piece of Europe — with stunning beaches. Win-win.

See also: the top 25 Caribbean islands revealed to find out where Curacao ranks.

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The culture

The country's capital, Willemstad, is a World Heritage City and is basically a mini-Amsterdam (the Curacao language is also Dutch and English), with cobblestone alleys, world-class museums, unique hotels, pastel buildings, restaurants that satisfy every palette and street art. It's a great atmosphere for wandering around, whether you're sightseeing, eating or shopping. Or all of the above.

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The food

OK, time to get a little more specific. Because of Curacao's Dutch-Caribbean-ness, the fusion of the cuisine here is out of this world. Popular dishes include stoba, guiambo, kadushi, sopi, mondongo and funchi. You have to try the official Curacao dish, though: keshi yena is cheese stuffed with a spiced meat, olives, capers, picked onions and prunes, then baked to perfection. You're welcome.

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The shopping

In Curacao, things to do are endless. For example, shopping! You can find everything from locally made products to wardrobe staples from major clothing brands. The Heerenstraat and Breedestraat streets offer everything from wooden shoes and coral jewelry to designer ensembles.

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The music

It may look European but the nightlife is Caribbean all the way, with live tunes playing seemingly everywhere. A great way to hang with the locals. And once a week, the Curacao population turns Willemstad into a big outdoor cultural festival and night market, featuring traditional folkloric dancers and musical performances from the likes of marching bands to jazz groups.

It should really be one of the top trips to take after you retire.

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The nightlife

It may offer a plethora of things to do during the day but Curacao doesn't get sleepy, thanks to all the live entertainment at your disposal. You'll be drinking and dancing the nights away. And if you're asking yourself "is Curacao safe?" – the answer is yes, just take normal precautions.

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Blue drinks

Home of the Curacao liqueur that comes from a dried peel of the laraha citrus fruit, this island is responsible for some blue-tiful cocktails. Your local watering hole might serve 'em up but why not try one (or half a dozen) where it all started?

Plus, if you're looking for something to beat the heat, is equally tasty but virgin, try the Awa di Lamunchi, a freshly squeezed and sweetened lime juice. Slurp.

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The art

The art scene is magnificent, from colourful murals on Willemstad's buildings to all its stunning galleries.

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The crafts

You can find everything from paintings to purses to carved household items but make sure you get your paws on a hand-painted Chichi doll (which translates to "big sister" in the local dialect, Papiamento). Each piece is made by a local women's group. Or ask around and find a workshop that teaches you how to make your own.

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Carnival time

The island's carnival season runs from January through to March, making it the perfect time to get festive. Whether you're dancing along to the tumba tunes with the Curacao people or simply standing on the sidelines as revelers parade the streets in colourful costumes, carnival time in Curacao can't be beat.

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The floating bridge

Built back in 1888, the Queen Emma Bridge is also known as the "Swinging Old Lady," a pedestrian bridge that spans St. Anna Bay, connecting the Punda and Ostrobanda districts of the capital city.

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The oldest synagogue in the Americas

Towering over a bistro-lined street stands the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue. Part of the UNESCO designation, it's the oldest continually running synagogue in the Americas, in use since 1732. Its neoclassical design and unique sand floor is one thing, but it also serves nearly 150 families who keep the heritage going.

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The Kurá Hulanda Museum

It contains the most extensive collection of African artifacts in the Caribbean, as well as houses a detailed display of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, explaining Curacao's role as a prime location where Dutch entrepreneurs sold and shipped enslaved Africans to other parts of the Caribbean and to the U.S.

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The animals

Whether you're checking out turtles or deer at one of the national parks or visiting the Curacao Sea Aquarium and swimming with dolphins, the experience with the wildlife and marine life is an amazing opportunity.

Just add it to the list of 20 epic trips you need to take in your 30s.

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The weather (obviously)

Not only does it boast beautiful, summer-like conditions all year long, but Curacao is conveniently located out of the hurricane belt, making it the perfect destination.

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The beaches

The south side of the island has over 30 beaches with calm, crystal-clear water so you can swim without having to worry about the currents and snorkel your face off.

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The landscape

Head out of Willemstad for the rugged northeast part of the island where there are two protected parks that you can enjoy. Hike around Christoffel National Park or go on a sunrise safari. Or walk the marked trails along the limestone bluffs of Shete Boka National Park.

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Climb a mountain

Or if you're really feeling adventurous, tackle the island's highest peak, Mount Christoffel. But make sure you start early in the day or the Curacao heat will wipe you out.

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Jump off a cliff

OK, sure you can do this in many locations but the 40-foot drop at Playa Forti is one to cross off your bucket list as the bluff boasts one of the most beautiful coastline views on the island. Plus, you won't be alone so if you need any extra encouragement, there are others there braving the leap. Or you can just watch others jump, which is almost as good.

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The price

It sounds like heaven. Expensive heaven. But don't be dissuaded. If you're on a budget, Curacao is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable islands in the Caribbean. Sure, the prices are high during peak season (like all places) but they definitely decrease during the summer and fall. What are you waiting for? Book. Go. We understand.