FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Global City Guidebook: Curaçao

by mary.melnick

Jul 30, 2024

PHOTO: © DARRYL BROOKS | DREAMSTIME.COM

Global City Guidebook 2024

The Dutch Caribbean island of Curaçao is known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrantly hued architecture in its capital, Willemstad. Whether your visit is a one-day cruise port of call or an extended vacation, Curaçao offers island adventures for all travelers.

GETTING THERE & AROUND
Curaçao International Airport serves the island with commercial and private flights. Travelers may also arrive via cruise ship or yacht. Once on the island, getting around Curaçao is easiest by car. Many hotels have shuttle service from the airport, or you may take a taxi. There is currently no ride-share service in Curaçao.

LODGING
Avila Beach Hotel
The resort features three distinct hotel wings, with different room, suite and apartment styles in each. Spend time lounging on the resort’s two private beaches. A short walk gets you to the city center and several restaurants.
130 Penstraat, Willemstad, Curaçao, tel 599 9 788 1949 avilabeachhotel.com

Baoase Luxury Resort
The secluded, luxury resort is a favorite among celebrities. Choose from guestroom, suite or villa accommodations. Take advantage of numerous on-site experiences including a spa, fitness classes, private yacht excursions and special dining events.
2 Winterswijkstraat, Willemstad, Curaçao, tel 599 9 461 1799 baoase.com

Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort
Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort recently completed renovations including new meeting and event spaces, and renovated guestrooms. The resort also features four restaurants, a family pool and an adults-only pool, kids club, and fitness center.
Piscadera Bay, 3 John F. Kennedy Blvd., Willemstad, Curaçao, tel 599 9 736 8800 marriott.com

DINING
Kome
The modern Caribbean restaurant is open for brunch, lunch and dinner. Choose from chiki (small) and grandi (large) plates of items including local pickled vegetables, octopus carpaccio, Thai chicken and pasta. Outdoor seating is available.
6 Johan van Walbeeckplein, Willemstad, Curaçao, tel 599 9 465 0413 komecuracao.com

Mosa/Caña Bar & Kitchen
Enjoy dinner at this Latin/Caribbean fusion res- taurant, with small and large plates ranging from tacos to freshly caught fish. Indulge in a libation from the extensive cocktail, wine and beer list.
41 Penstraat, Willemstad, Curaçao, tel 599 9 668 0232 mosacana.com

Restaurant & Café Gouverneur De Rouville
Housed in a 19th-century mansion overlooking Santa Ana Bay, the restaurant serves international cuisine with a Caribbean spin. Open daily for lunch and dinner, the restaurant also offers meeting packages.
De Rouvilleweg, Willemstad, Curaçao, tel 599 9 462 5999 de-gouverneur.com

ATTRACTIONS
Hòfi Mango
This beautiful nature park in Curaçao was originally a mango and sugarcane plantation in the early 1700s. Today it still houses a mango forest as well as the famous Hands of God sculpture and a new restaurant, Kultura Kòrsou, opened in January 2024.
Hòfi Mango, Curaçao, tel 599 9 515 1707 hofimango.com

Pietermaai District
Often referred to as the SoHo of Curaçao, the trendy neighborhood is home to boutique hotels, shops, cafés, bars and nightlife venues. The district was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997.
pietermaaidistrict.com

Renaissance Mall & Rif Fort
Partially housed in a former 19th-century fort, the open-air mall is a perfect spot for retail therapy. Shops sell everything from jewelry and resort wear to souvenirs and art. Dine in one of the sit-down restaurants or grab a coffee from Starbucks. There is also a movie theater and casino, plus live entertainment Thursdays–Sundays.
Gouverneur van Slobbeweg, Willemstad, Curaçao, tel 599 9 435 5000 shoprenaissancecuracao.com

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