Curacao Travel Update: New Hotels, Enhanced Airlift and More

Even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Caribbean island of Curacao is finding good news to celebrate. 

Currently, that includes a slew of recent and upcoming hotel developments, from major renovation projects to exciting rebrands and newly opened properties — plus other tourism news on the island.

Paul Pennicook, CEO of the Curacao Tourist Board, notes that visitors can take advantage of new offerings including the 24/7 Taxi app, to request transportation on demand; Curacao Green Wheels, providing electric scooter rentals; and new restaurants ranging from the fine-dining Fish & Joy Bistro and Wine Bar to Bambu, opened by local chef Justin Niessen following two successful restaurants in the Netherlands.

Below, he discusses the current on-island experience during COVID-19, noteworthy hotel news and more of the latest tourism developments in the destination.

What are some of the new hotel projects in Curacao that travel advisors should know about?

There are many new and exciting developments in Curacao, but the biggest announcement is the planned opening of the first Sandals on-island — the Sandals Royal Curacao, set to open in April 2022. The stunning property (the former Santa Barbara Beach & Golf Resort) is primed to be a high-end, luxurious enclave for couples.

In addition, 2021 was a huge year for growth on the island. In May 2021, Kunuku Aqua Resort became a part of the Trademark Collection by Wyndham portfolio. Then, just a month later in June, Hilton announced the signing of the newly opened Mangrove Beach Corendon Curaçao Resort as the newest property to join its Curio Collection by Hilton portfolio … [re-establishing] Hilton’s presence on the island. 

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While the world was at a standstill, Curacao saw continued growth in its hotel portfolio. In late 2019 and early 2020, we saw multiple properties undergo renovations and openings, including Curacao Marriott Beach Resort [which reopened in November 2019 after a $40 million renovation], Dreams Curacao Resort, Spa and Casino [which debuted in December 2019 following a revamp of the former Hilton Curacao] and Renaissance Curacao Resort & Casino [which completed a $12 million redesign in early 2020].  

Looking ahead, are there any future plans or news you can share? 

We’re looking forward to welcoming more visitors this fall and winter, and into 2022, as the result of increased airlift capacity and expanded flight routes. 

For travelers from the U.S., American Airlines flies daily from Miami International Airport (MIA) and will be adding a second flight every Saturday from Nov. 6 to Dec. 11, with plans to run a second daily flight starting Dec. 16.

Starting Nov. 6, nonstop flights from New Jersey’s Newark International Airport (EWR) on United Airlines are set to resume on a weekly basis, while the weekly nonstop flight from Charlotte International Airport (CLT) on American Airlines begins operation again weekly, every Saturday, starting Nov. 20. Twice-weekly direct flights from New York (JFK) on JetBlue Airways continue to be fully operational and will increase to three times a week starting mid-December.

Has travel demand been affected by the current (as of press time) Level 4 travel advisory from the U.S.?

No, demand has not been affected. In fact, all flights from the U.S. have been running in excess of 90% load factors.

What about the on-island visitor experience — what’s that like right now? 

Everything on the island is running smoothly as usual, while still being safe. Some places may require masks, and there is signage that continues to enforce safety protocols and safety measures. 

What measures are in place to help keep visitors and locals safe during the pandemic? 

Curacao is taking many precautions to ensure that visitors and locals alike are safe during the pandemic. [As of mid-September], more than 95,000 locals have been vaccinated on the island, which is approximately 77% of the adult population (over the age of 16). Additionally, to enter Curacao, all visitors must present a negative PCR test result before being granted access to the destination, as well as complete an antigen test on-island on the third day of travel.

For those who aren’t familiar with Curacao, what are some of the island’s tourism highlights?

Curacao is recognized for its rich history, diverse culture, colorful and unique architecture, robust culinary scene, a vibrant art scene, endless water-based activities and a friendly, welcoming “dushi” (sweet) atmosphere. 

History and culture lovers will be delighted by a tour of Willemstad to visit the iconic row of colorful Dutch buildings, Handelskade; walk across the iconic Queen Emma floating bridge; and tour many UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the Rif Fort. Art lovers will enjoy a walking art tour of the Otrobanda and Scharloo neighborhoods, which are quickly becoming open-air art galleries. At every turn there is a colorful mural or awe-inspiring painting, as well as many artists’ galleries. 

Foodies will love the many new restaurants on the island, as well as opportunities to eat like a local at Plasa Bieu or one of the truk’i pans (food trucks) that cater to the late-night crowd but are a staple of the local culture. Of course, the ocean is one of the main highlights of Curacao and a trip would not be complete without snorkeling, diving or a beach day. 

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Outdoor opportunities are especially important right now — what are some of the island’s top natural attractions?

From national parks such as Christoffel and Shete Boka, which offer the opportunity to see rare and abundant wildlife, to our robust countryside — full of plantations, cacti and amazing farm-to-table offerings — there is no shortage of outdoor opportunities to enjoy. 

Ocean lovers will rejoice at Curacao’s underwater world. The destination is time and time again recognized as one of the best diving spots in the world for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, untouched coral reefs, colorful and vibrant marine life and amazing shipwrecks and caves. 

There are more than 60 dive sites on the island and more than 30 beaches to explore, ranging from pristine white-sand beaches to cove-like beaches with cliffs ready for diving. Some of travelers’ favorite beaches include Cas Abao, Playa Portomari and Playa Kenepa for their crystal-clear waters and excellent snorkeling, as well as Playa Forti for cliff diving.  

What’s the best way for travel advisors to stay updated on Curacao?

Travel advisors interested in staying in the know on all things Curacao can sign up for the Curacao Trade Newsletter.

The Details
Curacao Tourist Board