There are places that whisper to your soul, where the air is thick with peace, and time… just stops. For me, that place was Curaçao.
From the moment I landed on that sun-drenched island, everything shifted. The colors were more vivid, the ocean bluer than I ever imagined, and my mind, for the first time in a long time, was completely still. With all the to-do lists, and endless deadlines, my mind needed to relax—just soft waves, salty breezes, and a heart wide open to receive.
I spent my days beach hopping—each one like a secret chapter in a dream. From the turquoise calm of Cas Abao to the rugged magic of Playa Kenepa Grandi, every beach had a vibe of its own, and a story. I would sit under palm trees with sand between my toes, letting the sea melt away every bit of stress. Curaçao isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a feeling you carry home.

But nothing could’ve prepared me for the night of my birthday.
The team at Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort turned my special day into a fairytale. As the sun kissed the ocean goodnight, I walked out to a setup on the beach that took my breath away. White linens danced in the breeze, candles flickered softly in the sand, and gentle island music floated through the air. A beautiful birthday cake cocktails awaited me and my friends, but it wasn’t just the details—it was how they made me feel: special, celebrated, and cherished.
Dinner under the stars was something out of a dream. The sky above sparkled like it was in on the secret of how magical the night was. I sipped my wine, dipped my toes in the sand, and felt an overwhelming wave of gratitude. I’ve never felt more present… more alive. It’s rare in life to feel so deeply connected—to the earth, to others, and to yourself. Curaçao gave me that.
After my magical birthday, I thought it couldn’t get any better. But Curaçao kept showing up for me—day after day—with its raw beauty, vibrant culture, and gentle reminders to be fully present.
My next day began early: First stop: Serka Tanchi. Cozy, warm, filled with the vibrant sound of rumba, and the scent of fresh, homemade food inspired by auntie’s recipes. That’s the traditional hangout space for locals. There was something so nurturing about that breakfast—it didn’t just feed my body, it fed my soul.

The day continued with exploring the local art: Bloemhof & Cathedral of Thorns—a cultural sanctuary filled with history, nature, and creativity. I wandered through the lush gardens, stood in awe of Herman van Bergen’s breathtaking sculpture work, and felt the deep pulse of Curaçao’s artistic heart. It was as if every corner whispered stories.
Another memorable experience, only known in Curacao, is lunch-workshop at Lion Fish Caribbean in Kura Hulanda Village. Their mission to protect reef life by turning invasive lionfish into sustainable cuisine and jewelry? Genius. We made our own jewelry using all kinds of sea treasures, and shared stories over fresh, delicious Lion Fish tacos and homemade lemonade—every bite laced with purpose and flavor.

The early evening fun began with a City Tour & Dinner Hopping experience with CurTuk Tuk. Yes, a tuk-tuk ride through the colorful streets of Curaçao! We sipped iconic green rum at the famous local’s favorite Netto Bar, indulged in bold flavors at Swinging Old Lady Brewery, and had our main course at Mosacana where the food felt like a love letter to Caribbean fusion.
Another unforgettable, unique dining experience with Kris Kirindongo and his family at Vittle Art. This wasn’t just dinner—it was a full sensory immersion. A five-course meal, each dish crafted with generational local recipes and served with stories and soul. Can’t you tell, I’m a serious foodie. I felt the power of connection in every bite. I felt Curaçao love of the people.Another favorite morning: breakfast at Johnnycake Box (traditional flavors with a twist), followed by a vibrational healing session with Elly Sambo at Universal Alchemist. Imagine meditating by the sea, creating your own personalized healing oil based on your DNA and the waves syncing with your breath, releasing everything you didn’t know you were holding on to. It was emotional. Transformational. And Unforgettable.

Let me tell you about Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort
Tucked along six acres of pristine beachfront, the Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort felt like its own little paradise within paradise. The moment I stepped into the open-air lobby—with its sweeping ocean views, bold pops of turquoise and tangerine, and that perfect blend of modern Caribbean style and Old World charm—I felt instantly at home.
The resort itself is a dream: 328 beautifully redesigned rooms and suites, two sparkling pools, lush tropical gardens, and eight on-site restaurants that each offer their own delicious vibe. Whether you’re craving sushi at Izakaya, an elevated all-day dining experience at C-Spice, a cocktail at Zala, or something quick and casual at Papiamento Marketplace, it’s all right there, thoughtfully curated and effortlessly chic.

One of my favorites was lunch at Salty Iguana Grill, just steps from the sand. I sat barefoot, sipping a cocktail and savoring the catch-of-the-day tacos as the golden hour cast its glow across the ocean. The food was fresh, flavorful, and unfussy—in the best way. It wasn’t just about the meal—it was about the moment. Surrounded by new friends, laughter in the air, and that unmistakable Curaçao light. This wasn’t just a stay—it was an experience. A beautiful pause. A chance to breathe deeply, savor slowly, and soak in the magic of being fully, truly present.
One of my favorite memories? A spontaneous detour to Coco Jambo Curaçao, a local gem in Otrobanda bursting with island energy. Bright colors, great drinks, and live music that had everyone moving. No plan—just good vibes and island rhythm.

Later, I wandered through floating markets, chatted with artisans at Plasa Bieu, and even hiked a short trail to peek at Shete Boka National Park’s wild coastline. Raw waves crashed into lava rock, and I felt tiny in the most freeing way.
Curaçao gave me more than a birthday celebration—it gave me space to breathe, explore, and reconnect with joy. From the curated art experiences to the salt in my hair and spontaneous laughter with strangers who quickly became friends… I felt so deeply alive.

Curaçao isn’t just a vacation—it’s a beautiful reminder that life is best lived in moments. Colorful. Raw. Soulful. Wild. This island taught me how to pause. To soak in beauty. To find stories in culture. To celebrate moments. To live slower, deeper, fuller. So here’s my advice: come to Curaçao. Let go. Say yes. Beach hop, eat like a local, dance under the stars, and let the island remind you that the best things in life are felt—not planned.
So what happens in Curaçao – Stays in Curaçao.

Words by Elena Vasilevsky