Curaçao

Curacao is known for its pristine beaches, colonial architecture, and beautiful coral reefs. It's part of the Lesser Antilles, a group of islands in the southern Caribbean Sea. The 444-sq-km island has around 35 stretches of sand, most of which line its southwest coast. Blue Bay is a pretty crevice on Curacao’s western shoreline, where it forms a horseshoe-like curve between sea-facing villas.

The island’s colonial past lives on in Willemstad, where you can explore pastel-coloured mansions and notable landmarks, including the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue and Queen Wilhelmina Park. Punda dates back to the 17th century, making it the city’s oldest district. It sits adjacent to Fort Amsterdam, on the south side of Queen Emma Bridge. If you’re looking for a place to sunbathe, Jan Thiel Beach and Mambo Beach are just a 15-minute drive south of Willemstad.