Expan Experience: Discovering the best hotels in Curaçao
Under the bright Caribbean sun , with the sound of the sea in the background and adorned with Dutch colonial charm , Curacao is the perfect place for those looking for more than just paradise beaches , but an authentic, warm and energetic Caribbean experience .
In a new edition of Expan Experience , Nicole Brignardello , advisor for the North America, Central America, and Caribbean region at Expan Tours , embarked on a journey that took her to Curaçao , a charming island in the South Atlantic. It was her first time in this corner of the world, and the experience far exceeded her expectations.
LATAM Symposium Curaçao
The reason for the trip was the LATAM Symposium Curaçao , a tourism event organized by the Curaçao Hospitality and Tourism Association (CHATA) and the island's Tourism Office .
" For four days, representatives from Chile, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay and Ecuador shared this space with local hoteliers and operators in an environment of learning, connection and discovery of Curacao ."
But beyond the symposium, what truly made the experience special was the opportunity to get to know the island from within , exploring its colorful streets , its beaches with unique hues , and its most outstanding hotels .
Curacao, a different Caribbean
Curaçao is a destination that surprises from the very first moment. Unlike the classic Caribbean postcard image, this island offers a more diverse and authentic version of tropical paradise .
" Curacao boasts 34 beaches stretching along its coast, each with its own unique character. Some are pristine and secluded, treasures waiting to be discovered, while a few are part of exclusive resorts ."
For those who prefer to explore on their own, there are public beaches with services ranging from $20 to $50 per day , which includes a lounge chair and parasol .
" The beaches are not always white sand ; some show darker tones and the sea, sometimes rougher, has led many hotels to create enclosed natural pools with barriers , where guests can enjoy the salt water in complete tranquility ."
Otrobanda, art and culture on every corner
" Among the places that surprised me the most is Otrobanda , a sector of the capital that is being heavily promoted as a new tourist hub . A local NGO has been revitalizing its streets and murals , organizing an annual festival that combines music, urban art and island culture ."
Walking through Otrobanda is like stepping into an open-air museum where every facade tells a story, where the colors vibrate to the same rhythm as the local drums . This was one of the most inspiring moments of the trip, a testament to how Curaçao is also defined by its people , their creativity , and their commitment to keeping their identity alive.
A hotel tour to suit all tastes
The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the tour of the island's main hotels . There were more than a dozen accommodations , with characteristics as diverse as the landscapes that surround them, ranging from all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels .
Among them are:
- Curacao Marriott Beach Resort
- The Rif at Corendon Beach Resort Curio Collection by Hilton
- Blue Bay Golf & Beach Resort Curacao
- The Kontiki Beach Resort
- Baoase Luxury Resort
- ACOYA Curacao Resort, Villas & Spa
- Dolphin Suites
- LionsDive Beach Resort
- One Mambo Beach Residence
- Avila Beach Hotel
- Livingstone Jan Thiel Resort
- Pietermaai Boutique Hotel
- Scuba Lodge & Ocean Suites
- Art Hotel Curaçao
- Renaissance Wind Creek Curacao Resort
- Papagayo Resort
- Courtyard by Marriott
" For two days, we visited seven hotels per day , discovering the different approaches each one offers. Some perfect for families , others designed for couples' getaways or for travelers seeking luxury experiences ."
Hotels that left their mark
The Rif at Corendon Beach Resort Curio Collection by Hilton , located just two kilometers from Willemstad , offers an all-inclusive experience ideal for families, with views of the ocean and nearby mangroves .
Its spacious facilities, restaurants, outdoor pool and proximity to museums and UNESCO World Heritage sites make it a place that is hard to forget.
The Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort stands out for its strategic location , just 15 minutes from the airport and five from the historic center . With recently renovated rooms, two swimming pools (one for adults only and one for families), five restaurants and bars , and a wide variety of water excursions , this resort combines modern elegance with tropical charm .
From diving with dolphins to catamaran rides or quad bike excursions, the experience here promises not to bore anyone.
The Avila Beach Hotel , right in the heart of the city, earned a special place: " Although it's not a hotel with breakfast included, its beachfront location and private beach make it an incomparable retreat. What I loved most was the beach ."
Another must-see was the Art Hotel Curaçao , an elegant adults-only accommodation designed by the renowned Studio Piet Boon : " Its minimalist and modern concept seeks to make each room a refuge as welcoming as the beach itself ."
And, of course, the Renaissance Wind Creek Curaçao Resort , located right on the pier connecting to Willemstad , is a must-see. This luxurious hotel combines casino, entertainment, and comfort , with rooms offering ocean views and direct access to the Renaissance Mall and Carnaval Casino . Ideal for families and couples alike, its location allows guests to enjoy both the sea and Curaçao's vibrant nightlife .
Tips for enjoying Curacao like a local
" For those planning to travel, it is recommended to combine different styles of accommodation: a few days in an all-inclusive resort to relax, and others in a hotel with breakfast included and a rental car to explore freely ."
Nicole recommends renting a car because, economically, it's better than getting around by taxi: " Getting around the island can be expensive if you rely solely on taxis , so renting a car is the most practical and economical option for exploring every beach and area ."
It's also advisable to bring water shoes , as many beaches are pebbly. And if you have to choose a must-see, Mambo Beach tops the list. It's a beach famous for its lively atmosphere , bars, and shops , even boasting a tattoo parlor right on the beach .
Beyond its landscapes and sunsets, what truly sets Curaçao apart is its people : " They are very friendly, warm, and communicative. Although the official language is Papiamento , most inhabitants also speak Spanish, English, and Dutch , which facilitates communication with visitors ."
And so, amidst the sun , the sea , and Caribbean hospitality , this Expan Experience in Curaçao is an invitation to all travelers to discover this distinct paradise , where the Caribbean is experienced in a unique, genuine, and deeply inspiring way.
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