Colorful Comfort in Curacao

Willemstad's oceanfront Avila Beach Hotel combines Dutch colonial heritage with a celebration of American music in an unusual confluence of themes that works on all levels. The early 19th century mustard yellow and white reception center, which once served as the governor's home, welcomes you to Curaçao's oldest hotel. Its past is evident in its ornate antique mirrors, exposed-beam ceilings and brass lanterns, yet the present waits just beyond the patio doors.

The hotel is comprised of two separate wings that pay homage to very different traditions. From the reception area, a short stroll along the beachfront boardwalk leads you to the Blues wing (ca. 1996) -- an assemblage of wooden structures built over the water. Life-size silhouettes of wailing saxophonists adorn the entry doors. Inside, jazz art prints hang tastefully over a blue-and-white color scheme designed to continue the blues theme in a more subtle way. Standing on the wing's iron-railed deck, you get the sensation of being aboard a ship.

While the Blues wing has a modern, almost minimalist, vibe, the architecture of La Belle Alliance wing harks back to the island's Dutch colonial days. Native wicker furnishings and vibrant local art liven up each room's white interior. Suite guests have access to their own stretch of sand. From the grand suite, you can step right onto the beach from the deck.

Music-loving guests have their pick of genres and venues for live performances. The Blues Cocktail Restaurant hosts jazz and blues gigs weekly. Classical music fans will find intimate philharmonic concerts, operatic arias and performances by world-renowned violinists at La Belle Alliance Recital Hall, a bright red, stucco building within sight of the Blues restaurant.

Meals can match your moods, too. For casual daytime dining, the Avila Café serves sandwiches and salads al fresco. As the sun goes down, you can soak up the view from Belle Terrace restaurant while supping on gourmet Danish and local fare, including filet of ostrich and Keshi Yena, a Curaçaoan dish of cheese stuffed with chicken stew.

For more information, visit www.avilahotel.com or call 011-599-9-461-4377.

Posted online 04/02/04.