Set on one of the island's best beaches, near Lions Dive, 6 km southeast of the airport, this sprawling fun house represents its frolicking all-inclusive chain well. With a large casino and more planned activities on its roster than any other hotel on the island, this is Curacao's one-stop playground for young and old. Those averse to the all-inclusive format will want to bypass this place, but otherwise, there is no better stop for a plop vacation on Curacao than the Breezes. And in this location known most for its underwater treasures, it's no surprise that limited diving excursions are included in those all-inclusive rates.
There are seven buildings on the property. The long, rectangular five-story main building affords sea vistas from almost every room in the house. The lobby is a vivid tropical fantasy aimed at snow-blind couples and families from North America. Bright Caribbean art, rattan and bamboo appointments, and whirling ceiling fans scream, "Welcome to the tropics." Guests are greeted at the airport, which is actually where they register, before hopping the free shuttle to the property, where they receive welcome drinks.
Varied dining includes the usual big buffet hall, an Italian restaurant, and a Japanese venue
overflowing with all-you-can-eat sushi and sashimi. Both require reservations. Kids have their own restaurant, and the informal beachside bar and grill serves charbroiled squid and hot dogs to all. Four bars are on the premises, but the quality and quantity of the hotel's liquor selection has been known to irk some guests.
Even for guests staying an entire week, completing the activities roster here would be a challenge. There are three pools, that fine beach (500 m long), diving and diving instruction, tennis and shuffleboard courts, multitudinous watersports, rock-climbing lessons on an artificial mountain, and a great children's program. Divers are offered one complimentary shore dive a day. Other diversion includes hourly games, as well as fun at the pools and beach, ranging from aqua aerobics to salsa lessons to bingo. The property also offers a gym, and the spa is the biggest and best on the island.
Nightlife focuses on the casino, but one bar transforms into a karaoke spot when the sun sets, and the disco stays open late. Tours and rental cars are on hand. Weddings are becoming more popular and are arranged on-site for no extra charge. Wi-Fi is available for a charge at various hotspots throughout the property, as well as in the Royal Tower rooms.
The average-sized accommodations are fitted with quality island-style appointments, tile floors, muted print spreads and coordinated drapes. The Marriott's guest quarters are nicer, but these digs are attractive and comfortable. Ceiling fans and air-conditioning bolster comfort levels. The thoughtful amenities are among the best on the island and include phones, TVs and CD players. Running from small to spacious, sitting areas add breakfast tables, and average-sized closets hide irons, ironing boards and safes. The granite-trimmed baths provide toiletries and hair dryers. The majority of beds are kings, with paired queen beds making up the remainder.
The least-expensive Deluxe Garden View Rooms lack the fine water views of the Ocean View units, but their proportions are the same. The larger Oceanfront rooms are the best choices here. The Royal Tower rooms have new tubs, but the rest of the rooms offer shower-only baths. Rooms in the Flamingo building are generally reserved for older guests or those who want some tranquility. Activities are not held in this area, and only in the highest of occupancy will guests find families with children at this end.
For those enamored with all-inclusive resorts, this property is a great choice, although the full-throttle frenzy of guests getting their money's worth is hardly relaxing. The similar Marriott, which now offers an all-inclusive tariff, is a small step down the ladder from this place. There is a minimum stay of four nights.
