I was blown away by Curaçao’s beautiful beaches and scenery.
Kelly Magyarics
Curaçao is known for having more than 35 beaches, so every sun-worshipper can find their perfect spot.
During my visit, it seemed that some beaches, such as Playa Piskadó, were mainly frequented by locals, so they were uncrowded and relaxed. Others, such as Grote Knip and Playa Kalki, in quiet coves, were very tranquil.
While on the island, I noticed a fun Dutch influence through food such as fried meat snacks called bitterballen. I also encountered an unexpected gin-and-tonic culture, as Dutch genever (a spirit made in Holland and Belgium) is similar to gin.
During my stay, I sipped my way through the gin-and-tonic menu at Zest Restaurant & Beach Cafe on the lively Jan Thiel Beach and, of course, tried the island’s namesake bright-blue liqueur.
Handelskade, a row of brightly colored Dutch colonial buildings lining the water in Willemstad (the island’s capital), was the perfect photo op.
As an added bonus, Curaçao is part of the ABC islands (the other two being Aruba and Bonaire), which are unlikely to be severely impacted by hurricanes.