Postcards from Curacao (Part 1)

(Grotte Knip Beach)

Curacao was my first adventure in the Caribbean and let me tell you, it was fantastic and a great place to start.  We arrived to a heavenly breeze, warm and balmy air and a sea in the most vibrant shade of turquoise that I have ever seen.  We rented a car and were able to explore the island that is heavily influenced by the Dutch (french fries with mayonnaise anyone?)but with a heavy local flare of the natives from Curacao.  We drove to both sides of the island - one of my favorite things was seeing the juxtaposition of the sea and the arid climate on the other side which consisted of cactus, flat rocky land that was filled with iguanas, lizards and herds of goats that heavily populated the island.  We spent our days totally immersed in relaxation whether we were relaxing on the beach, swimming until we were exhausted and snorkeling amid colorful parrot fish and damsel fish.  Here is the first part of our trip, just showing a few beaches that we visited.  There will be more to come tomorrow! I hope that you enjoy!  Continue for more...

(And p.s. - I do admit that I first learned about Curacao from the Bachelorette, yes, I have watched every season without shame, so don't feel guilty if you are in the same boat!) 

 (A rusted anchor)

 (A beautiful dock by our hotel that looked different as the sun rose and set)

(A coral rock with the sun filtering through)

 (A daily treat - fresh coconut water served by a very nice local named Wally)

(Enjoying some fresh coconut meat)

 (This beach, Grotte Knip was like swimming in a pool - the water was crystal clear)

(Another view)

(Cactus illuminated by the sun)

 (A church perched atop a hill)

(A lone boat connected to a tattered dock)

(A few more boats)

*All photographs by Alison