Curaçao is a dushi place, not to be confused with “douchey.” In Papiamentu, the island’s local language, “Dushi” means “sweet,” or if referring to a person, “sweetheart.” Get it? Located in the South Caribbean, Curaçao is influenced by its Dutch, African and Spanish roots. It’s a diverse LGBTQ-friendly playground where travelers can party, mingle with locals, find or fine tune romance and get a sense of Curaçao’s authentic culture without feeling like too much of a tourist, which is why you should grab your girls and make a weekend or a week out of it.
Here’s our guide of five reference points for getting your girls trip to Curaçao started off right!
STAY
One of the pools at the Santa Barbara Beach and Golf Resort.
The Floris Suite Hotel is an adults-only sanctuary located in Willemstad, Curaçao’s capital city. The boutique hotel features modern design, private balconies with pool-front and garden views, complimentary wi-fi and free shuttle service into Willemstad, as well as to nearby beaches. Floris is a member of the World Rainbow Hotel alliance, and proud supporters of the South Caribbean Pride.
The Santa Barbara Beach and Golf Resort is an expansive property open to families and singles alike, located on the eastside of the island. It’s a self-contained beachfront property that provides luxury amenities and accommodations for groups, singles and families. Take advantage of all-inclusive packages, diving and water sports, a well-equipped fitness center and the Atabei Spa, which uses locally sourced natural products. This place is a world within itself so you can leave if you wish or stay right on the hotel’s property and lounge by the pool or beach, listen to live music, have breakfast delivered to your room, indulge in unique drinks like mint piña colada, and eat delicious food.
PARTY
Curaçao’s motley inhabitants represent Dutch, African and Spanish heritage as well as the cultures of the many transplants from various parts of the Caribbean and South America, which means that anyone can find a variety entertainment to suit their needs. This is probably one of the few places in the world where the same radio station will play Michael Jackson, salsa, Frank Sinatra and Bachata back to back.
According to some locals, Mambo Beach is one of the best places to go for turn up action. It’s a beach club that also houses a swimming pool and a small stage for events.
EAT
The St. Tropez Ocean Club is a swanky beach club inspired by the South of France with a touch of LA style, where patrons can brunch, lunch, have dinner, sip drinks and party.
SHOP
There’s a lot of aloe vera plants growing on Curaçao so what do they do with it? Make beauty products of course! Head to CurAloe for natural body products made with local aloe. Once you’re done there, head to Dushi Curaçao a few doors down for cute t-shirts, key chains and other souvenirs.
SWIM
Playa Knip is one of the most popular beaches among the locals. Join them for fun in the sun and jump off a cliff into the island’s turquoise waters to cool off from the heat, if you’re brave enough.
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