Our Honeymoon in Curacao Was a Unique Caribbean Experience

When we decided to honeymoon in Curacao, we were fully aware that we would be going during the “rainy season” (November and December), but we were told that their rainy season meant sun all day with a 10 minute shower in the afternoon. While this may be true, our visit coincided with, as described by a local cab driver, the most rain they have had in thirty years. Nothing can be done about the weather, and it certainly can’t be held against the island. We still managed to get some sun and go for a swim six out of seven days. We went into downtown Willemstad, the capital of Curacao, several times to eat and shop, and never got caught in the rain.

Other than the weather, the honeymoon was wonderful. Our room at the Curacao Marriott was wonderful and spotless. We had a view overlooking the gorgoues pool and the crystal clear Caribbean. The staff at the Marriott was wonderful and truly did anything they could to help us with a smile on their face. The food at the Marriott was above-average for a Caribbean island, but we did start to miss American meals. We went into downtown WIllemstad a few times to eat, and had mixed results.

Dinner at Bistro le Clochard was out of this world, but the other meals were only average. However, when visiting an island in the middle of the Caribbean, and only 30 miles north of South America, you have to be adventurous and willing to try foreign dishes. My wife loved the Carpaccio she had at several restaurants, and the Wine Lists at all restaurants were superb, full of tasty European and South American wines. We certainly did not go hungry, and were satisfied overall with the quality of food.

As for things to do, Curacao has quite a variety. While we did not go SCUBA diving (which Curacao is known for), we did go snorkeling and saw amazing under-water scenery, far better than the Bahamas and Grand Cayman. The island offers horseback riding, nature hikes, golf, gambling, water sports, four-while drive tours, and nature preserves. There are literally dozens of beaches, each having different qualities. The views are absolutely breathtaking.

While Dutch is the official language, since the citizens are considered part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, English, French and Spanish are widely spoken. THere is a strong European vibe here, and downtown definitely has a Dutch-architectural feel. There are many Forts to explore and the island has an amazing history. For example, Curacao has 55 different Nationalities represented on the island and boasts the oldest Synagouge and Jewish Cemetary in the Western Hemisphere.

If you are looking for a Caribbean resort with impeccable service, friendly locals, and a vibrant culture, Curacao is the place to go. The Bahamas, Bermuda, the Caymans, and all the other islands have a similar feel, but Curacao is decidedly different than any other Caribbean destination. You will never visit anywhere like it. Curacao is a great vacation spot, whether it is a Honeymoon or yearly getaway. And with twice-daily flights out of Miami, it is easier than most to get to. Have a great Vacation…