Warm climates and warm people make for
a heart-touching island getaway

By Chaundra McGill

If home is where the heart is, it’s apparent the originator of this cliché had not ventured to Curaçao. Though the derivation of the island’s moniker is debatable, it is widely accepted that the lesser known of the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao) received its name from the Portuguese word meaning “heart.” The name was likely assigned to this southwestern island in the Caribbean Sea for its pivotal role as a trading post for South America – as the island is just 35 miles north of Venezuela – and other Caribbean Islands during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Island View

And though historically, Curaçao hosted many passerbies’ docking into Willemstad, the island’s capital and only city, for the sole purpose of economic gain, a visitor could easily anticipate an air of ambivalent behavior among the natives. In fact, Curaçaoans’ exercise an open hospitality mixed with a casual familiarity, the same type of warm exchanged shared among loved ones.

It’s not uncommon to be greeted dozens of times with a hearty, “Bon dia, dushi!” (meaning “Good morning, sweetie” in the Curacaoans’ native dialect of Papiamentu) while strolling through the narrow streets of downtown Willemstad. Many natives speak English, but this may come after first addressing many unilingual Americans with either Dutch, Spanish, and, of course Papiamentu.

Perusing the shopping district represents the beautiful contra-diction of Curaçao: the old masterfully blended with the new. Historic buildings artfully restored nestled next to trendy American transplanted boutiques brandishing names like Calvin Klein. The Floating Market, an outdoor farmers’ market stand, delivers fresh produce daily, is situated directly across from a watch boutique selling intricately-crafted time pieces for hundreds of dollars.

And unlike any of its neighboring islands, Curaçao lacks the desperation tourism mentality and economy driver. Rather than being perceived as an instant source of revenue and frenzied locals hassling tourists to purchase crudely-crafted souvenirs, Curaçao welcomes visitors as a guest in their paradisiacal home creating a safe and relaxed environment for all who visit.

Curacao Architecture

Greeted by the pastel-colored buildings of Dutch- and Spanish-inspired architecture, visitors are treated to a perfect escape for an extended weekend. Though many of the structures are reminiscent of other Caribbean islands’ architectural landscape, Curaçao offers many contemporary-style homes away from home.

And the Villa Manisé is just that. A privately-owned mansion, this 7-bedroom and 6-bath marvel is located just on the outskirts of Willemstad and outfitted with the finest of amenities. One of the most exclusive properties on the island, the exterior boasts a hotel-sized infinity pool with a diving rock, outdoor Jacuzzi, a serene garden and a panoramic view overlooking the island, while the inside is furnished with a fitness room, four kitchens, a meeting space, and four covered patios. And guests do not have to deal with the shared amenities among other hotel patrons, as Villa Manisé is tucked in a residential neighborhood, allowing one to experience luxurious home life on the island.

Considering the Villa Manisé is home-style living, patrons are responsible for their own groceries, cooking and transportation, though their four-star concierge service is always an option, supplying visitors with a private cook, grocery shopping service, private spa service, babysitting service, even a private plane for jetting to nearby Aruba for a day trip.

Now if more traditional resort accommodations are in order, then the Kura Hulanda is a viable option, offering tourists two locations – one beach front lodge and a hotel in the heart of city – each with its own host of amenities.

The Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa and Casino allows for luxury in downtown Willemstad. This 80-room hotel has five dining selections, a casino and a spa featuring a sauna, steam room, outdoor pool and covered yoga space, not to mention a full fitness facilities furnished with personal television for every cardiovascular machine. And though a great spa facility is key, the services are the true attraction.

Indulge in a variety of full-body massages ranging from the 4-hands Massage to the Emotional Balancing Massage to the Chi-Pressure Body Massage. Also included on the treatment menu are specialty facial treatments, spa manicures and pedicures, along with rejuvenating body treatments like Sunburn Relief Body Wrap and Reshaping Algae Body Mask.

The Lodge Kura Hulanda and Beach Club seems like another world compared to its city counterpart, though situated just 40 minutes away on the west side of the island. The Lodge Kura Hulanda provides that true beach resort experience with its beautiful white sand beaches with an iridescent blue ocean backdrop. Outfitted with 74-suites and guest rooms, lodgers can dine at one of three outdoor restaurants, frolic by the large outdoor pool, play tennis on the courts or explore the underwater playgrounds. With a fully equipped dive shop on the beach called Ocean Encounters, water lovers can opt for scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking and wake boarding. But don’t think that all of the activities are limited to the water. Discover the rugged terrain on the west side of the island with an ATV tour with Eric’s ATV Adventures. Just one word of advice, avoid the cactus and thorny bushes at all costs, as they ever abundant.

Beach Fun

Now lying out on the beach and scoping tropical fish can work up an appetite and delectable cuisines is no shortage in Curaçao. The island’s flair is the robust tastes of inter-national entrees with an added treat of outdoor dining. Visit Jaipur in the Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa and Casino for a taste of Indian food. Enjoy spicy curry dishes in a sensual and elegant ambiance highlighted by the gentle sounds of the nearby Eco-Pond pool harmonizing with subtle background music. Another hot spot for moonlight dining is The Boathouse for feeding French food fetishes. Situated on top of a hillside over looking ocean waters, this upscale, yet laid-back establishment offers artful presentation and sinful desserts.

Coined one of the best kept secrets of the Caribbean, Curaçao is a treasure awaiting discovery. Its fusion of rich cultures and laid back atmosphere is a treat for any traveler’s heart.