Curaçao, the way we know it

My first dives on the island were with Scuba Do, at Jan Thiel Beach. The atmosphere there is relaxed, but as soon as you're underwater the adventure begins. A nice extra is that if you stay at Villa Sandemarie, you get a 10% discount on your dives at Scuba Do – just mention it when booking.

My favourite dive spots are on the east side of the island. The reefs there are pristine and it's often wonderfully quiet. When I head that way to dive, I prefer going with Sea Natives – they take you by boat to the most beautiful dive spots.

Shore diving also remains something I love to do. Directors Bay is one of those places where you walk straight into the water and are immediately at the reef. Beautiful for diving, but also perfect for snorkelling or freediving.

Sometimes I encounter turtles, sometimes I swim among schools of fish and sometimes I just enjoy the silence. But every time I come up with salt in my hair and a smile on my face – and I know again why I live here.

For a real beach day, we prefer driving a bit further ourselves. Cas Abao is one of the island's most beautiful bays, with white sand, crystal-clear water and plenty of amenities for a long day. Grote Knip is somewhat simpler, but special because of it: the view from above is stunning and the water is often bright blue. Porto Mari is a good choice if you want to swim or snorkel, but also just want to lie comfortably.

Head out early, especially on weekends. It's quieter then, the sun is at a beautiful angle and you'll have the best spots to choose from.

Along the way, you'll encounter plenty of charming spots: small shops, street art, old buildings and nice coffee shops. Not because you have to go inside everywhere, but precisely because it's fun to walk around without a strict plan.

If you have some extra time, you can continue towards the Rif Fort area or explore Otrobanda further. End with a cold drink by the water and watch the city slowly pass you by.

Tip: go in the morning. It's often less hot and quieter then.

The Christoffelberg is the island's most famous hike. It's a bit of a climb, but at the top you're rewarded with a magnificent view. The lesser-known Tafelberg is also recommended; you can climb it with Curaçao Rock Climbing.

Along the north coast lie several 'bocas', where the sea crashes hard against the rocks. A nice place to stop for a moment during a tour of the island.

At the salt pans, you can often see flamingos. Not a major excursion, but nice to catch if you're driving that way anyway.

And then there's Klein Curaçao. A day trip by boat to this uninhabited island is truly one of the best outings on Curaçao. Think crystal-clear blue water, a wide white beach, snorkelling, the old lighthouse and just being out at sea.

For coffee or something sweet, Number Ten is always a good idea. At Chill Beach Bar, you can get a frozen cappuccino by the sea, and at Koko’s, you can enjoy breakfast or lunch with your feet almost in the sand.

Hofi Cas Cora is also a great recommendation for breakfast or lunch. It's located on a farm and many products come fresh from the island. Extra fun with kids, as you can also stop by the animals. De Heeren at Sea is especially nice for lunch or dinner, with a beautiful view over the sea.

In the evening, you can go to Villa Vis for fresh fish, De Gouverneur for dinner with a view of the Pontoon Bridge, or Mosa Caña for shared dining in a relaxed setting.

And for happy hour? That's simply part of life on Curaçao. A cold drink, sunset and no rush. Our favourites are Zanzibar Beach, Mambo Beach and Kokomo Beach.