Unlike much of the Caribbean, Curaçao offers more than just great beaches and fun in the sun. Its capital city of Willemstad is a destination teeming with cultural and historic attractions and, at only 20 minutes away from beautiful nearby beaches, a popular option for clients' accommodations.
Right in the heart of Willemstad is Hotel Kura Hulanda Spa and Casino (www.kurahulanda.com), an 80-room luxury resort complex that spans eight intertwining blocks. Here, Dutch Colonial Caribbean buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries have been restored to create first-class accommodations surrounding intricate walkways, two pools, shops, courtyards and gardens.
Room types range from Standard to Deluxe to Suites, all the way up to its two Presidential Suites. But the hotel's true gem is its Indian Bridal Suite on the second floor, situated over the Indian Marble Garden. All of the furniture is made of hand-hammered sterling silver. The draped four-poster king-size bed is also silver. Amenities include a 30-inch flat-screen TV, DVD, VCR, CD player, wireless Internet and marbled bathroom with two bathtubs (one made for two). Agents should reserve the Bridal Suite well in advance for honeymooners or couples seeking a romantic getaway; for more information, agents should call 011-5999-434-7700 or 877-264-3106 from the U.S.
A Relaxing Getaway
Of course, many clients seek out the Caribbean just for sun, surf and relaxation, and for those travelers, the Lodge Kura Hulanda & Beach Resort (www.kurahulanda.com) is just the ticket. Located only 30 minutes from Curaçao's international airport on the island's West End, this beachfront haven offers spacious villas, suites and guest rooms, all featuring balconies or patios with panoramic views of the ocean or gardens.
The crème de la crème of accommodations at the Lodge is the Tree House Mansion, which also serves as the Curaçao residence of the resort's founder, Jacob Gelt Dekker. But this exotic, two-bedroom, two-bath treetop suite is also available for your clients; just be sure to reserve far in advance. Built atop wooden stilts among the island foliage, the Tree House Mansion measures 1,312 square feet and is decorated with an African motif, filled with artifacts and antiques acquired by Dekker on his world travels.
A wooden spiral staircase leads up to the Tree House and into the open-air living room, which features an authentic Bali bridal bed and a wide terrace providing sunset views over the water. The Tree House Mansion also includes a full kitchen with a refrigerator, stove and microwave. It sleeps up to four people, with rates starting at $1,000 per night. Agents should contact General Manager Enrico Lindenhahn or Director of Sales Jody De Leon at 877-264-3106.
Best of Both Worlds
Clients who want to experience all that Curaçao has to offer should enjoy the "Best of Both Worlds Spa & Adventure Package," which includes three nights in a deluxe room at the Spa and Casino and four nights in an Oceanfront Studio Suite at the Lodge. In addition, they will receive a one-hour massage per person at Spa Kura Hulanda; full-day bicycle rental at the Lodge Kura Hulanda; a three-hour boat/snorkel trip from the Lodge Kura Hulanda; and a $140 food and beverage credit to be used at Hotel Kura Hulanda. Rates are $1,065 per person through December 23. For more information, visit the website.