Curaçao
October 20-22 (3D2N): A lesser-known Dutch Caribbean island next to the famous Aruba that benefits from being outside the hurricane belt. And you guessed it, Curaçao is also the island where the liqueur Blue Curacao is from (as seen in the photo). Curacao is known for its stunning beaches, amazing diving/snorkeling spots, friendly locals, and outstanding cuisine. I might just say this is my favorite Caribbean island so far! One should plan for at least 4D3N to fully enjoy the island.
*Highly Recommended
Day 1:
Noon arrival in CUR via JFK (Direct via JetBlue)
Pick-up rental @ Avis*
Check-in @ BijBlauw Hotel*
Welcome drink & lunch @ Restaurant BijBlauw*
Blue Bay (Skip! Steep entrance fee)
Habitat Curacao* (Great for snorkeling; free parking)
Pina Colada @ Karakter Beach - Lounge - Restaurant*
Snorkeling @ Port Marie Beach (Decent snorkeling spot; beautiful sunset; free parking)
Shop @ Sambil Curacao & Carrefour
Dinner @ Kome*
Dance @ Mr. Porter Streetcafe
Otrabanda for the view
Day 2:
Snorkeling @ Playa Kalki* (Great for snorkeling even in the rain; free parking)
Lunch @ Sol Food*
Swim with sea turtles @ Playa Grandi/Playa Piskado* (Great for snorkeling; free parking)
Playa Forti (Beautiful views from the top, but not much to see under the water; free parking)
Playa Lagun (Decent snorkeling spot, but a bit crowded; free parking)
Mambo Beach (A manmade beach with bars/shops/restaurants; free parking):
Drinks @ Hemingway
Dinner @ Sal The Kitchen*
Drinks @ Tiki Loco Curacao*
Day 3:
BijBlauw Hotel:
Snorkeling by the hotel*
Pool
Isa Service Station (Takes US credit card)
Curacao International Airport:
Return rental @ Avis
Hato Airport VIP Lounge* (Decent food & 2 drinks per person)
Afternoon flight back to JFK
Other points of interest & food:
Hike @ Christoffel National Park
Swim @ Cas Abao Beach
Cocktails @ BKLYN, Cascada Rooftop Bar + Kitchen
Brunch @ La Bohème Curaçao
Dine @ Mundo Bizarro, MosaCaña Bar & Kitchen, Restaurant & Café Gouverneur De Rouville
Seafood @ De Visserij piscadera
Tips:
For your first visit, look for accommodations in the capital - Willemstad - it offers a vibrant dining scene.
Visa & Mastercard are accepted on the island, but most places will charge the bill in USD.
A rental car is a must to explore all the beaches on the island. Driving was easy as the roads were pretty smooth.
While most beaches are free on the island, some charge for either an entrance or parking fee.
Don’t forget your plug adapter (Type F outlet).
