The Fashionable Frequent Flyers

Curaçao is a magical place that leaves its mark on you if you travel the island right. If you’re in the process of planning a trip to Curaçao and you’re trying to figure out what you’re going to do, this blog post is for you. I traveled the island with a local (shout out to Tierza) for four days and I made sure to go to every must-visit location. (Because Curaçao is an island with incredible snorkeling and scuba diving, I’m going to save my “ocean edition” blog post for when I revisit the island). Without further ado, these are the seven things I would say you MUST do on the island of Curaçao!!

1) Visit the vibrant pastel-colored capital of Willemstad! Many of you may not know that Curaçao has a huge Dutch influence. This is most noticeable in the capital where you will walk by colorful buildings right on the canal’s edge. While there, make sure to walk across Queen Emma bridge – the famous floating bridge that connects Punda and Otrobanda! I highly recommend visiting at night as well as during the day in order to really see the contrast! The island of Curaçao isn’t very large, so as long as you’re trip is three days or more, this is an easy goal to accomplish!

2) Visit the colorful stairs that will transport to an alternative universe where Snoop Dogg and Pharrell shot their “Beautiful” video. I say alternative universe because, as everyone knows, the “beautiful video” was shot in Rio. However, these colorful stairs in Curaçao are stunning and quite the visual masterpiece. Just picture yourself vibing out here! (I’ve linked Linda’s and I’d reshoot of the beautiful video — check it out haha)!

3) Check out the local art scenery! One thing will be immediately apparent to you when you visit Willemstad – the island is artistic and full of vibrant art everywhere you turn. From the gorgeous murals, to the local art stores, including those of independent artists and those who partake in the chichi artwork. It’s really very breathtaking. I highly recommend that you walk into a few galleries and listen to the artists’ stories. They truly are quite moving. More here!

4) Visit the Watamula Blow Hole! What is a blow hole, you might ask? It is a natural coastal reef formation where incoming ocean waves are forced through porous tunnels in the coral rock, shooting water and air up like a geyser. Locals often say it is where the island “breathes.” It’s a breathtaking sight and one you must see when you visit the island. And, look, I know I said this was the land edition, but hey, while you might get wet, you won’t be submerged under water.

5) Thursday Night at Punda! Curaçao isn’t a party-forward island. (It isn’t like Jamaica or Trinidad). Candidly, that’s probably one of the things I love most about it. Not that I don’t love a good party, but at the not-so young age of near-36 years, I’m just not trying to be up all night partying. Having said that, what I can get behind is an early dusk outdoor vibe that wraps up before midnight, and that’s exactly what Punda is on a Thursday night. Outdoor dining, rooftop bars, live music, street food; this is the place to be on Thursday night, and an absolute must visit. Here’s where you truly get to see a whole new side of the culture and it’s amazing.

6) Visit a traditional Afro-Curaçaoan home, also known as “Kas di Pal’i Maishi.” If you’re interested in learning how the people of Curaçao lived before societal modernization, this is the activity for you. And honestly, nothing else on this list will immerse you in the history of the island more than this activity. Bring your singing voice and make sure you tip!

7) For the romantics visiting the island, I have the perfect activity for you — go candle making at Candle Connection in Willemstad! It’s such a romantic and calming experience, and, the best part, you get to leave with a self-designed scented candle. I absolutely love supporting local businesses when I travel, and this was a spectacular way to do that while engaging in a unique two-hour activity. After you finish, make sure you check out Caleo, which is literally a two-minute walk from Candle Connection. It’s a delicious pay off following wine and candle making.

The island has so much to offer and I can’t wait for y’all to experience it! If you’d like to know where you should eat, check out this island overview post authored by my wife here!