Curaçao is the Ultimate European Travel Dupe

Last year was the summer of European travel, where travelers flocked to hot spots like Italy, Greece and Spain. This summer, travelers seek more budget-friendly options with plans to travel to destination dupes that offer all the luxury of a European vacation without breaking the bank.

This summer, consider a trip to the Caribbean island of Curaçao, offering the feel of European charm with the allure of the Caribbean. Explore Dutch-influenced architecture, 300 days of summer sun per year, colorful coral reefs and a diverse mix of cultures.

Curaçao’s prime location on the fringes of the hurricane belt means tropical storms typically don’t threaten vacation plans, even throughout summer, unlike other popular, tropical destinations.

Summer, typically May through November, is the ideal time to visit this hidden gem because of the beautiful weather, lower cost of airfare and accommodations, and smaller crowds.

With new and additional non-stop flight routes coming from New York, Miami, Charlotte, Atlanta and more into the country’s capital of Willemstad, the destination is becoming more and more popular.

While there, make the newly renovated Curaçao Marriott Beach Resort your home. Located only five minutes from the city, the hotel offers the warm and dedicated hospitality the Caribbean is known for. Spend the day lounging by one of two swimming pools, an adults-only pool and a large family pool; or set out to explore the area with ATV tours, buggy tours, catamaran trips, swimming with dolphins or hitting the green.