Curacao, a former Dutch colony, is one of the most charming destinations in the Caribbean. Gazing across Sint Annabaai at the colorful town houses lined up on the shore, you might think that you're in Europe. Until you remember that the sun is shining, it's 82°F, and you're on your way to the beach. Despite the flawless weather, Willemstad feels like a Dutch city, complete with waterways and street cafes. Throughout the old town the architecture is rich, with stunning examples of 17th- and 18th-century fortifications, Dutch colonial planning and diverse building styles, all of which earned this city its UNESCO-protected status.
While here, I would visit:
- Willemstad and its historic architecture.
- Christoffel National Park, which is on the grounds of three old plantations. Visit the museum, climb to the summit of Christoffel Mountain for great views of Curacao, and check out old copper mines and wild orchids.
