4. Curacao
Curaçao was discovered in 1499 by Spanish explorer Alonso
de Ojeda, a lieutenant of Christopher Columbus. The Spanish
christened the island “Isla de los Gigantes” in reference to the
massive physiques of its original inhabitants, the Arawak
Indians – but there are several theories about the origin of its
actual name, the most likely being the Portuguese words for
cured (curação) or heart (coração). Today, the island is
affectionately known locally as “Dushi Korsou” (Sweet
Curaçao).
Today, this island of more than 142,000 people is being
carried forward on the shoulders of new giants – the artists,
entertainers, entrepreneurs and dreamers whose imaginations
and ambition extend an open invitation to the truly curious,
calling them to a culture of freedom and exploration where big
ideas can be born and creativity and courage are always
welcome.
5. Curacao
The Dutch influence on Curaçao is as omnipresent as the
centuries-old colonial buildings. Since the time they first
established themselves as the island's ruling class, the
Dutch have had a major impact on why the island is so
interesting to the outside world. In fact, several thousand
Dutch people have made Curaçao their permanent home.
Curaçao has a remarkable rhythm, which can best be
heard in the mix of its many languages. Although Dutch
is the official language, and English and Spanish are also
widely spoken, many residents speak Papiamentu — a
curious Creole blend of African, Spanish, Portuguese,
Dutch, French, English, and Arawak Indian.
6. Curacao
Whether you are an intense outdoor sports enthusiast, or
content to laze on a sugar-sand beach, our Curacao travel
guide will connect you with the best of this fascinating island.
Explore the Hato Caves, an elaborate network of stalactites
and stalagmites with drawings at least 1,500 years old. Hike
the trails of the 4,446-acre Christoffel National Park, teeming
with exotic wildlife and gardens. Diving enthusiasts will love
the Mushroom Forest, an underwater jungle of 10-foot,
mushroom-shaped star coral. For memorable shopping
adventures, visit our capital city, Willemstad -- a charming
port of high-end retailers, restaurants, and nightlife spots. It
is one of the Caribbean’s few UNESCO World Heritage cities.
Vivid, sherbet-colored buildings showcase Dutch colonial
architecture not to be found anywhere else outside of the
Netherlands. These are just a few of the diversions that make
travel and tourism amazing.
7. Curacao
Enjoy the Curaçao outdoors and explore the
beautiful landscapes.
Our island is full of nice trails, many unreachable by
car and hardly ever visited. Curaçao has an amazing
ecology. There are lots of treasures to be discovered.
Walk along the rugged northern coast, or enjoy the
shade of the trees in the south. Or how about a walk
around one of our "salinas" (saltpans), where large
colonies of flamingos are still to be found.
Another option if you want to explore new places is
to book a Curacao jeep safari.
8. Curacao
World-Class Curacao Art Galleries
The people of Curaçao have never been intimidated by color,
nor have they ever held back on their interpretations of the
vibrant colors surrounding them. These hues have inspired
some formidable artists on the island. Curaçao is a creative
melting pot, housing over 30 artists originating from Curaçao
and all over the world. Some of them are represented by the
following Curacao art galleries. To truly capture this Dutch
Caribbean nation, you should experience it through the eyes
of our artists. We invite you to awaken your senses and come
visit these Curacao galleries.
For more artist information and events, also have a look at
curacao-art.com.
9. Curacao
Curaçao Beach Boulevard offers great shops &
restaurants!
Not the traditional places but local and international
brands to spoil yourself, buy great gifts, treat yourself
to a nice lunch or dinner in one of our restaurants or
a drink in one of our cafes or bars.
You will want to dive right in the clear blue ocean of
Sea Aquarium Beach, but do get that beautiful new
bikini first!
There is always something happening at the BLVD,
every hour of the day!
10. Curacao
Otrobanda (meaning ‘the other side’) is on the opposite side of St.
Anna Bay. This district was developed in the 18th century. The main
shopping street in Otrobanda is the Breedestraat. You can find this
street between Kura Hulanda and the Riffort. Kura Hulanda is one
of the best restorations of Otrobanda. An entire section of
Otrobanda’s dilapidated slum was transformed into a magnificently
renovated historical district, the best example of Dutch colonial
architecture in the Caribbean. The Riffort on the other side was
built in 1828 to protect the city. Its restored ramparts now shelter
Riffort Village, a shopping and entertainment center that offers
panoramic views of Punda and the sea. The Brionplein (Brion Plaza)
is the centerpiece of Otrobanda’s waterfront.
You can sit on a café terrace and have a picturesque view of the
gabled houses of Punda opposite. When cruise ships are docked in
the harbor, merchants set up stalls along the waterfront. Willemstad
Otrobanda is improving on its image, and a renovation of the
waterfront is almost finished.
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14. B A O A S E L U X U R Y R E S O R T
Option One
15. BAOASE LUXURY RESORT
5 Star Boutique Resort
Discover Baoase Luxury Resort, an idyllic tropical retreat
tucked away on the stunning Caribbean island of
Curaçao.
The elegant resort is situated on the south side of the
island between the capital Willemstad on the UNESCO
world heritage list and the popular Curaçao Sea
Aquarium/Mambo Beach.
Baoase offers a unique stylish holiday experience,
combining the comfort and privacy of your own villa or
suite complemented by the services of a five star plus
resort.
16. BAOASE LUXURY RESORT
This Curacao hotel is set amid tropical gardens on a
private white-sand beach. The resort features five
saltwater pools (some private), five spa tubs, and a
beach club with private cabanas. A fitness center is
on site, and guests can rent snorkeling and scuba
diving equipment (surcharge). Kayaks are
complimentary. In-room or beachside massage are
available by appointment (surcharge). Additional
amenities at this Caribbean resort include a
concierge desk, laundry service,
babysitting/childcare, and room service (limited
hours).
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21. BAOASE LUXURY RESORT
Baoase Culinary Beach Restaurant
Baoase offers a unique dining experience on a private
beach. Nothing at Baoase is by coincidence. Every
detail is taken care of. Surrounded by a fusion of
Caribbean Beauty with Asian elegance, Baoase Beach
Restaurant is the perfect choice for your special
evening.
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23. BAOASE LUXURY RESORT
Baoase Beach Club
Our open-air and fully equipped bar is located next
to the beach and is the perfect spot to start (or finish)
your evening with a sparkling cocktail or your
favorite drink prepared by our bartender. Talk, meet
and enjoy good company in a relaxed atmosphere.
Live music on Tuesdays
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25. BAOASE LUXURY RESORT
Deluxe Loft Banyan Tree Room
This loft deluxe room is perfectly suitable for a family of
maximum four (4), tucked away behind the property's old
Banyan Tree features Asian elegance with on the ground floor
a king size bed, roomy bathroom with shower and in the loft a
bedroom featuring a queen size bed, nightstands and table &
Chair. Modern amenities such as a color flat screen TV, DVD
Player, radio and A/C. As an added amenity this room also has
an outside fully equipped kitchen located on the private patio
of this room. 592 sq. ft.
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28. BAOASE LUXURY RESORT
Honeymoon Suite
An extra spacious and romantic hideaway with a combined
sleeping and indoor sitting area. Located on the second floor.
Unwind in your cool personal oasis with its hardwood floors
and high colonial ceiling. Refresh in the spacious bathroom
with his and hers vanity . Enjoy the outdoor balcony with its
plumbed up loungers, private Jacuzzi and views of the lush
gardens or ocean.
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33. Flights
October 5th
Depart 12:10 pm, 1.5 hour layover in Miami, arrive Curacao
8:06 pm
October 10th
Depart Curacao 3:05 pm, 3 hour layover in Miami, arrive IAH
11:00 pm
35. S A N T A B A R B A R A B E A C H & G O L F R E S O R T
Option Two
36. Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort
4 Star Resort
Experience uncompromising service, superlative
views and premier amenities at this luxurious
Curacao beach resort. Santa Barbara Beach & Golf
Resort Curacao is a full-service Dutch Caribbean
island resort, perfectly situated on 27 acres of
pristine property between the Caribbean Sea and
Spanish Water Bay. The resort is part of the
Caribbean trio universally referred to as the ABC
Islands, Curacao is located only 35 miles from both
Aruba and Venezuela.
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39. Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort
Three pools overlooking the Caribbean Sea
Enjoy a natural oasis and unwind in the shining warmth
and glow of the Caribbean sun. The pristine white sand
beach stretches 450 meters (1500 ft.) by 18 meters (60
ft.) and invites you to lounge while enjoying the peaceful
views of passing sailboats and yachts. Swim in the warm,
current-free blue water and relax amid the natural,
undeveloped views. Water sport rentals available on site
through Ocean Encounters.
Hiking trails
Bicycle rentals for $15 a day
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45. Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort
For truly inspired relaxation guests can book a spa
treatment at ATABEI, where spa treatments stem from
the ancient culture and rituals of the Arawak people, the
original inhabitants of Curacao. Here, the heat of the sun,
the rhythm of the water, the goodness of the earth and
the pull of the moon enable guests to attune to their
natural self.
The glass walled spa is a sanctuary infused with peace
and relaxing energy where guest can enjoy views of the
sparkling ocean from the StayFitTM fitness center and
the reception area, which boasts a soothing water
feature. The spa itself was designed to mimic the area’s
natural beauty, and playful elements incorporate light
blue, tan and dark woods.
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47. Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort
Jun's Sushi Bar
The open seating of the great room with its refreshing breeze
will enable your senses to be indulged by all that Curacao has
to offer while enjoying one of the specialty cocktails or a
selection of sushi.
Medi
A full-service restaurant featuring an exhibition kitchen
complete with a wood-fired oven and an upscale dining room
serving fresh Mediterranean dishes along with traditional
favorites. Outdoor seating with a view of the sea is available for
those who prefer to dine al fresco. Plus, drink in the views at
the oceanfront lounge that serves creative Tapas and artistic
Caribbean cocktails.
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51. Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort
Shore Restaurant & Lounge
The perfect venue to enjoy one of the creative cocktails while
drinking in the views of the Caribbean. An American-style grill
that features an upscale Burger Bar for lunch plus the freshest
catches of the day. All served in a contemporary designed
setting in the ocean-front golf clubhouse.
Swim Bar & Restaurant,
The pool bar and restaurant offers some of the finest frozen
drinks and Pan Latin cuisine. Enjoy a refreshing Frio-Frio
(snow cone) with local syrups around the pools or while sun-
bathing on beautiful Barbara beach. This is the perfect spot to
spend a relaxing afternoon.
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55. Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort
Premier Water View
Enjoy the unstoppable water view in the Premier Water rooms,
decorated with natural wood and stone with earth tone colors
inspired by the Caribbean's hidden treasure. With 410 square
feet of living space the Premier Water View rooms feature one
plus king Bed or two double beds. The rooms offer a luxurious
in-room amenities including flat screen TV's, Wi-Fi Internet
access, an in- suite refrigerator, iHome stereo with iPod
docking station and more. Enjoy the views over the Caribbean
Sea while relaxing at the private balcony with seating.
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58. Flight
October 5th
Depart IAH 12:10 pm, 2.5 hour layover in Miami, arrive
Curacao 8:06 pm
October 11th
Depart Curacao 3:05 pm, 3 hour layover in Miami, arrive IAH
11:00 pm
59. Quote
Premier Water View
$2,745
Breakfast included
$100 resort credit
Includes flights and transfers
All quotes are subject to change.