The little-known Caribbean island of Curacao is renowned for its emerald green waters, loaded with tropical fish, year-round warm weather, beautiful white sandy beaches, boutique resorts and more than 50 cultures that make up the island's history.

Located 35 miles off the coast of Venezuela, Curacao is the largest of the Netherlands Antilles. It is situated outside the hurricane belt, insuring visitors mild weather and a temperature that averages 82 degrees all year.

According to Director of Tourism, Jim Hepple, “Exploring a foreign country I fun and exciting, but can be a bit overwhelming when you don’t understand the language.” In Curacao those languages form a cultural stew that includes Dutch, French, English, Portuguese, Spanish and their native Papiamento (a Creole dialect from many languages). Fortunately, the people of Curacao are warm and friendly and it is common for them to offer you a traditional greeting of, “Bon Bini” (welcome) or “Bon tardi” (good afternoon).

The capital of Willemstad, the only city in Curacao, was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 Today many of the historic Dutch homes are being renovated and restored back to their former beauty – homes that were ravaged by time and salt. Guided tours tell fascinating stories of their past incarnations.

Brightly colored buildings line the main streets of Willemstad in vibrant hues of pink, yellow, green and blue, creating a visual Caribbean palate for the senses. Tucked into their walkways are retail jewelry, clothing and craft shops. Curacao liquor, created on this island is still made here. Tourists may want to take home a bottle of the sweet orange-based liquor.

Sun worshipers can take their pick of about 38 beaches including the incredibly beautiful Knip Beach on the north end of the island. Divers and snorkelers will find more than 68 dive sites including the famous “Mushroom Forest,” deemed the best in the region by Caribbean Travel and Life. With more than 500 species of fish and an abundance of coral, some have dubbed Curacao as “the best kept secret in the Caribbean.”

Dining on Curacao is as varied and eclectic as the cultures themselves—something for every palate. Among the most popular are African, Caribbean, Indonesian, Latin and Oriental. At Rysttafel Indonesia, a traditional “rice table” with fish and vegetables has been transformed into a visual feast with the addition of many other taste tempting accompaniments, all served on a large rotating serving tray.

One of the best things about food on the island is that you are always close to some local cuisine just waiting to be sampled. At the famous floating market, boats from nearby Venezula and other islands line up along the Waaigat Canal to sell their wares and transforming the area into a colorful outdoor market. Lively music can be heard coming from their vessels as they offer fresh fish, produce and tropical fruits to passers-by.

While the climate is hot, the humidity at certain times of the year can be daunting and brining a hat and sunscreen is a must. Street vendors offer water and soft drinks as you stroll and shop the streets and this is the only place in the world where you can try some Amstel Bright Beer, brewed from 100 percent distilled seawater.

There are a host of resorts to choose from including the Marriott, Hilton and Floris Suites, all three within walking distance to each other and more importantly to the beaches. The Hilton sits right on the water and has great beaches, open-air restaurants; palm roofed bars, and water sports. Staff are friendly and helpful – whether you are staying there or just using the beach.

Curacao has a rich history that includes a thriving Jewish community that started arriving on the island in 1732 following the Spanish and Portuguese Inquisitions. Its temple, the Mikve Israel-Emmanuel Synagogue is one of the oldest continuously operating synagogues in the Western Hemisphere. The sand-floored Temple was a reminder of their exodus from Egypt through the wilderness of Sinai.

The Kura Hulanda Museum offers a glimpse of the predominant cultures of Curacao including the island’s role in the African slave trade that was a major part of the island’s history until the practice was abolished in 1863.

Curacao is a popular stop for cruise ships in the Caribbean and many decide to return after their short visit. In addition to shopping and dining, there are many other activities to be enjoyed including golfing, hiking, surfing, biking and yachting.

As day turns to dusk, the clouds on the horizon come ablaze with vibrant colors of orange, red and crimson. The gentle breezes reminds one that the best things in life are the simple like the sights and sounds of the ocean lapping the shore, the sweet taste of a coconut or the joy in learning about other lands and peoples. Curacao seems made for such moments and its laid back-back lifestyle will have you wishing that you planned a longer visit.