Curacao Hotels

Curacao Hotel Reviews

You'll generally find that hotels at all price levels provide friendly, prompt, detail-oriented service; however, the finer points of service are in some cases still in nascent stages. Many of the large-scale resorts east and west of Willemstad proper have lovely beaches and provide a free shuttle to the city, 5 to 10 minutes away, but you'll find utmost seclusion at hotels on the island's southwestern end, a 30- to 45-minute drive from town. Most hotels in town provide beach shuttles.

Villas and Rentals

Villa and bungalow rentals are especially popular with divers and European visitors and are generally good options for large groups or longer stays. The Curaçao Tourist Board (www.curacao.com) has a complete list of rental apartments, villas, and bungalows on its website.

Livingstone Jan Thiel Resort. The 128 villas at Livingstone Jan Thiel Resort surround a swimming pool in a low-rise complex that offers a minimarket on-site, free access to the beach across the street, Wi-Fi in the open-air lobby, and a playground and special programs for kids. Festive decor includes a large painted mural at the entrance and beaded shades on tabletop candleholders at the poolside restaurant. Reasonable rates even in high season make this an appealing choice for those looking for self-catering facilities. Jan Thiel. 5999/747-0332. www.janthielresort.com. 128 villas.

Papagayo Beach Resort. The bungalows at Papagayo Beach Resort give you a unique option: on a whim you can open up a full wall so that your wraparound wooden terrace becomes part of your living space. Suddenly you're as close as it gets to living outdoors. These well-designed and nicely furnished homes include two bedrooms, a full kitchen with dishwasher, and bathroom (showers only). The restaurant menu changes seasonally; the pool bar is a cozy place to meet your neighbors. There's no beachfront, but you get free access to the beach across the street. Special programs and entertainment for kids are offered during school vacation periods. Jan Thiel. 5999/747-4333. www.papagayo-beach.com. 75 bungalows.