Curaçao is the Mickey Rourke of the Caribbean — er, not in the sense that its beaches have lost their movie-star good looks due to some oil spill, leathery kelp infestation or excessive reconstructive sand-grooming. Nothing like that. Rather, it’s just that it hasn’t had much going for it these past few decades … until now, when all of a sudden it’s making headlines.
As it happens, the little Dutch island of 133,000 is welcoming its first new resort in over 15 years — the Renaissance Curaçao Resort & Casino. Based in Willemstad, it has itself 237 rooms, including two “Majestic Suites” tricked out with lounge, dining and reading areas, making them the largest suites on the island.
They’ve also designed something called an “Eternity Beach” — a first-of-its-kind, man-made beach that borders on the resort area’s actual beach (a la an Infinity pool), made with authentic sand and ocean water, sans Curaçao’s infamous offshore undertow to stuff you into Davey Jones’ Locker, dead nerd style. Sweet.
Most interestingly, though, the resort is connected to The Rif Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After cannonballing many a pirate in the 19th century, The Rif Fort transformed into a radiotelegraphy station during World War II, keeping tabs on Nazi U-boats deployed to the south Caribbean (which had easily the best gig in the Kriegsmarine). Double sweet.
Ready to visit? Now through April 15, you can stay for a reduced $199 a night (40% off regular rates). They offer multi-night specials, too. Go online or reserve by phone: (800) HOTELS-1.