Hide and Seek:
The island of Curaçao comes out to play
Recently named as one of Bing.com's Top Ten Destinations to visit in 2010, you’ve probably never heard of Curacao, many Americans haven’t. But the island of Curaçao (Kew-ra-sow) – which labels itself “the Caribbean’s Hidden Treasure” is ready to come out and play. Located less than 50 miles off the coast of Venezuela, tucked away on the outer fringes of the hurricane belt (so you can travel there any time of year), Curaçao neighbors Aruba and Bonaire; the three often referred to as the ABC islands.
Curaçao has been on the radar of European travelers and divers for years and is only now being discovered by intrepid American travelers. Divers have made the trek to experience the country’s more than 60 stunning dive sites which include coral reefs like the world’s only Mushroom Forest, named for its acres of pagoda-shaped star coral formations. But if you don’t dive there's still a lot to explore.
Hike to Curaçao’s highest point, the 1,230-foot Mount Christophe, which lies in a wildlife park and can be explored by car, bike, horseback, or on foot or visit a beach a day; it’s easy because the island has more than 35 beaches to choose from. Or if you want to party hard, come during Carnival, the island’s biggest dance and costume festival.
Want more? Then venture off to the Curaçao Ostrich Farm which has a population of 600 birds, the largest outside of Africa. The farm’s Zambezi restaurant serves African inspired food including – of course - ostrich meat and South African wines and liqueurs are available. For great barbecue, try Equus; hidden away in a horse stable and only open on Fridays, the restaurant’s menu is simple: beef or chicken cooked over a fire pit and then hung over the table to be eaten at leisure. Equus’ barn still houses horses which gives it a rustic, earthy feel.
Curaçao, until a few months ago, was a part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands but island residents recently voted for a “status aparte” which means it is now an independent country but that doesn’t diminish from the European culture that is evident everywhere in Curaçao. Its colorful Dutch architecture is prominent in the capital city of Willemstad, a “UNESCO World Heritage City,”
Peek-a-boo: The Kura Hulanda Tree House is for grown-ups, not kids
A sister property to the 80-room luxury Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa & Casino in historic Willemstad, Curaçao, the Kura Hulanda Tree House Lodge and Beach Club is sexy and private, your secluded hideaway on the grounds of the Kura Hulanda lodge.
This relaxing and alluring beachfront retreat is situated on the west end of Curaçao and offers a more secluded vacation experience where you can enjoy a private lanai, freeform swimming pool, direct beach access and a choice of restaurants.
