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Of the many islands in the Caribbean Sea, Curaçao is perhaps the most interesting. A highly prized territory in European colonial times that passed from the Spanish to the British, French, and Dutch, Curaçao today is an exuberant melange of cultures, the most prominent of which is African. Although the Creole language, Papiamentu, is the most widely spoken on the island, Dutch and English are also official languages.

: ‘t Klooster is located in Pietermaai

: The swimming pool at ‘t Klooster

Most visitors to the Caribbean are seeking sea and sand and not much more. Curaçao offers much more. It is therefore a joy to call Boutique Hotel ‘t Klooster home for an extended period, especially when staying in the fully equipped one-bedroom apartment, where the living room’s tiled floor makes a dramatic impression upon entering (other rooms have tile floors as well). Indeed, some of the hotel’s 24 rooms are occupied by Dutch workers on temporary assignment in Curaçao, an independent country within the Kingdom of the Netherlands, where the rain and clouds of Europe are literally distant memories here in the sunshine. One can imagine they are very pleased with their accommodation in rooms along the perimeter of the verdant courtyard, where breakfast is served each morning next to the swimming pool, so enticing in the heat of a Caribbean afternoon.

: ‘t Klooster’s Monastery Suite

: Living room of one-bedroom apartment at ‘t Klooster

As its name in Dutch implies, ‘t Klooster is a former monastery (cloister) which today provides a warm welcome to visitors who choose to stay in a historical structure that blends grand architecture with the appeal of a convenient location in Pietermaai, the trendy nightlife district of Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is Curaçao’s capital. The juxtaposition of classic Dutch architecture complemented by palm trees in a tropical setting makes for excellent photo opportunities; in that respect, ‘t Klooster itself is photoworthy in its own right. Inside the front door, a set of brilliantly helpful young women at the Reception desk will see to it that a stay at ‘t Klooster begins with enthusiastic hospitality.

Oliva at ‘t Klooster

As is usually the case in repurposed historical buildings, rooms and suites vary in size and configuration. The one-bedroom apartment is equipped with a full kitchen, which further enhances the sense of home. Its balcony is lined with a mature palm tree, creating a setting that reminds occupants of Room 23 that they are in a warm climate. Taking advantage of that climate is Oliva ‘t Klooster’s restaurant, where a tapas menu offers ample opportunity to sample a variety of Mediterranean-influenced dishes. Seated outdoors on the hotel’s terrace, diners can enjoy hot dishes, warm service, cool breezes, and cold drinks when having dinner here in the Pietermaai district, which is within easy walking distance of Punda and across the Queen Emma pedestrian bridge to Otrobanda, two areas of interest to visitors thanks to their cultural offerings, shopping options, and scenic street settings. Pietermaai, on the other hand, is the very cool part of the city where locals thrive, but tourists venture less frequently despite its proximity to the sights. Boutique Hotel ‘t Klooster, therefore, makes an excellent base for a relaxed visit far from the cruise daytrippers but close to chic locals who enjoy fine dining and a chill night out.