VUE

Practicing proper pronunciation is just half the battle in bringing this island to the forefront, with the eponymous blue-colored liqueur serving as a familiar point of reference for the majority of people. The island's name was once believed to be derived from the Spanish word "corazón" or "heart," but actually comes from the Caquetios, the Curaçao Indians, who were the first people the Spanish settlers came into contact with in the early 1500s. Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Curaçao's capital city located on the eastern side of the island, is the culmination of Curaçao's abundant history, art, culture and beauty. And if you can picture any one of Amsterdam's famous canals with pastel, gabled buildings along the waterfront, then you already have a pretty good idea of what the downtown area looks like. Home to the floating Queen Emma Bridge, the only "floating, swinging" bridge in the world and the Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, the "Punda" district of Curaçao is one literally built on tradition. The first half of my trip was spent on the eastern side of the island at Lion's Dive, a sporty and eco-friendly oceanfront resort. Set on its own private beach, Lions Dive was designed to fit the Dutch Caribbean feel as well as accommodate those looking for a more active retreat. Complete with a 50-meter swimming pool and on-site dive shop, guests are encouraged to engage in as much or as little activity as they see fit. Nearby attractions include visiting Den Paradera Herb Garden, which translates to mean "the place where you feel at home" in Curaçao's native language, and touring the world-famous CurAloe plantation. Notable east-side dining options include Fuoco, an Italian-style steakhouse and Fort Nassau, a renovated 18th-century fort perched hillside that overlooks Willemstad and in the evening, boasts stunning sunset views. VUE ON TRAVEL V U E N J . C O M 55

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