honeywhite

My husband, daughter (7) and I are headed to Curacao in a month, and can't wait--we were there in August 2005, but now return as certified divers, and are excited to explore all Curacao has to offer.

On our last visit, we spent a day at Playa Kalki and the newly opened Kura Hulanda Lodge, and vowed we'd stay there if we ever returned--however, travelling with a 7 year old, especially when we'll want to spend a few days diving, requires a certain level of amenities for kids that I don't think the Lodge has.

Therefore, I've narrowed it down to two--the Hilton or the Marriott. The cost differential between the two is minimal, so I now I just need advice: which has larger standard rooms (I have elite status with Hilton, so the possibility of an upgrade is there)? Are the executive level rooms at the Hilton larger than standard rooms? And probably most important--which has a better kids club? Do the activities keep the kids happy and engaged, or is it really more babysitting? Were those of you who used either kids club satisfied with the level of supervision, and were your kids happy?

A million thanks!

RobR

Well, I really can't answer your specific questions other than to say I have been to both properties (stayed at the Marriott) and it's a no-brainer in my opinion -- the Marriott all the way. The Hilton is run-down and neglected and the beach is not really a beach -- hard to describe but it's like a large sandbox -- man-made. The Marriott's beach may also be man-made but it is wide and long so it doesn't seem like it. The Marriott is low-rise and sprawling along the beach, the Hilton is high-rise and I did not find it to have much personality. If you want a lovely, spacious room, choose the beachfront executive room category -- these rooms are on the first floor, walk out to the beach, are larger with a sitting area (couch and coffee table). We loved the Marriott and it gets our award for one of the best value Caribbean resorts we have visited. There were also plenty of children there so your child should have as good chance of finding friends. There's a deli and a convenience store on site, great for snacks.

where_to_next

We'll be in Curacao in July with our kids (8 and 10). We've decided to break it up with 4 days at the Marriott and 4 days at the Kura Hulanda.

Don't know if you already saw this, but something we plan to check out is a half day kid's program at the Sea Aquarium. That way my husband can dive right there at the Sea Aquarium beach and I can snorkel, or we can just enjoy a little time to ourselves hanging out on the beach.

honeywhite

Thanks, appreciate both of your responses (and will definitely check out the Sea Aquarium program).

allietoo

Marriott pleased young daughter as well as teenage son. -Much more personality than most Marriotts. Oceanview rooms (kids) were almost as lovely as oceanfront. Flight back Curacao - Miami to Detroit was a nightmare curing us of the American Airlines "experience." Diving was mediocre.
Very murky waters, poor visibility, but weather was otherwise outstanding. Crispy shell beaches, exotic, people-watching pool. Get up early to reserve a spot in the shade for non-divers. Buy bottled water. Tap water was off several evenings as power went out. Attend any hotel buffets early.