Why I don't like Kuraco (but don't hate it either)

The refinery I saw on my way to the apartment rental in Curacao is a harbinger of what will happen in the future.

The Caribbean Sea reminiscent of images of white sandy beaches, palm trees, coral reefs and tropical drinks. This summer, I plan to travel most of the time Caribbean Sea (Spoiler Alert: I don't). At the top of my list of places to visit is Curaçao Netherlands And is known for its casino, nightlife and blue liqueur of the same name.

When I fly in CuracaoI dream of all the Caribbeans offering and imagine myself relaxing on the long white sand beach with piña Colada in my hands. The largest and most sturdy in ABC areArubaBonaire and Curaçao (Ao), Curaçao, also has good hopes of hiking and non-Becchi activities.

But almost immediately upon arrival was disappointed.

What they don't show in the brochure is the refinery on the edge of the town. Do you know this beautiful, colorful seaside photo that shows the view of Curaçao?

Well, right nearby, there is a not-so-good refinery that blows black smoke into the air – very visible from the town.

That refinery set the tone for a week.

As we said, Curacao is “Hmm.” It’s not a bad place, but it didn’t shock me. I left this country and remained indifferent. The atmosphere on the island just didn't blend with me. I wanted to like it, but nothing on Curacao made me feel sad or stayed when I boarded the plane and went home.

Let's start with the beach: Not bad, but not that good. Those near major towns are beaches at resorts, meaning you have to pay if you haven't lived in one of these resorts. They are filled with people, lounge chairs and artificial crushers to prevent waves and create a calm swimming area. (Not that the calm swimming area is bad, but the circuit breaker reduces the flow of water, and since most resorts have boats and docks, I don't think the water is the cleanest.)

The beaches in the north are public, wider, and more natural, but even though they are still not the long white sand we often imagine. In addition, the coastline is filled with dead coral and rock. Are they beautiful? Yes. I sat there and went, “Damn it, this is beautiful”? certainly. Have I been blown away by them? No, not true. There is better.

I was also disappointed with the lack of affordable and easy-to-use public transportation. The bus only runs every two hours, and taxis are very expensive ($50 for a 15-minute taxi ride). If you want to see the island, you do have to rent a car during your stay. There isn't a real limit to what you can see.

Most importantly, even the town is not that pretty. Outside Willemstad's famous waterfront, I was not impressed by the scenery, buildings or houses. Even the resort is outdated. There is nothing like something a little dirt and wear on the city that can give it some charm, but in Curaçao, grit just adds to a tragic neglect.

One thing I like, though, is the locals. They travel. They are friendly, helpful and great conversation home. I live in Airbnb rentalAnd my host Milly was super friendly and helpful. She even tried her best to drive me some places so I didn't have to take a taxi. If I go back to Curaçao, I will stay in her residence again.

While looking for a place to eat, I stumbled upon a local family-run restaurant near my apartment and ate most of the meals there. Every time I walk in, they greet me like they have known me for years (I might be the only non-local one). Jack from another restaurant, please give me his phone number, if I need anything, always think of me when he meets me, I really like his lemonade.

Then there was the bus driver who helped guide me around town, locals let me hitch with them when the buses weren't coming, and countless other friendly conversations and helping hours that happened during my week.

If I choose to go back, it will be for people, not the place.

Curaçao is not bad, but I've experienced it A better destination. Maybe I don't like it because I have high expectations – when you think of nearby Aruba And Bonaire, you think the Caribbean paradise, I just mixed Curaço with them. When we build a position in our minds, expectation often leads to disappointment.

I had no burning desire to go back and left Curacao. I'm glad I went and I encouraged others to go, but there's nothing better, cheaper in Curaçao.

You can't love every destination. it's out of the question. I can usually find benefits every place (Even Vietnam! ), but humans have opinions, emotions and preferences – I don't like Curaço.

You should explore the island yourself. You just won't find me there.