2024 has witnessed an impressive increase in economic and tourism growth in Caribbean islands such as the Dominican Republic, Jamaica and Barbados, which are leading the way in foreign investment and sustainable development. Amid this regional success, Americans have discovered a new shining star: Curaçao.
Over the past two years, this breathtaking island has become a top destination for American citizens thanks to its mix of Dutch heritage and modern, progressive infrastructure.
For starters, this destination now boasts multiple luxury all-inclusive properties, a key factor in its increasing appeal, making it a standout example of the Caribbean’s evolving prosperity.
Let’s look at the numbers. In 2022, the island saw an unusual increase in American visitors, but it was too early to detect a trend.
But after reporting positive numbers season after season, In August, Curacao saw a 24 percent increase in American visitors, cementing its status as a favorite among this demographic with 14,703 arrivals.
These results made the United States the top source market for Curaçao and contributed to an overall 18 percent growth in total visitors for the same month.
The cruise industry in full swing!
Earlier this week, the Curaçao Tourist Board announced an 18 percent increase in the number of cruise passengers compared to 2023, with 58,291 overnight visitors – 9,000 more than the year before.
The top three source markets for August were The Netherlands (not surprising, since this is a Dutch island), the US and Colombia (which appears in all similar rankings lately).
As for American visitors, most come from New York, New Jersey and Florida.
Other nationalities that choose Curaçao as their favorite Caribbean destination include Aruba, Suriname and Brazil.
The board states in a statement that one of the main attraction this summer was the return of the Curaçao North Sea Jazz Festival, which attracted thousands of visitors.
All these figures mean that Curaçao welcomed 1,042,754 visitors between January and August 2024, including cruise passengers, day trippers and stay-over tourists – an increase of 23% year-on-year.
Without false modesty, these results were expected, especially after the destination was mentioned the second best cruise port in the world based on cruise user reviews, as part of the Cruiseline 2024 Member Choice Awards. This recognition was announced in February 2024 by the Curaçao Ports Authority (CPA).
What do you miss in Curaçao?
At this point you may be feeling some FOMO about this Caribbean island. Why will Americans flock to this destination in 2024?
The mix of European and Caribbean influences certainly gives this hotspot a unique touch, with its colorful streets, floating bridge and eternal party scene on Mambo Beach.
But that appeal has always been there, so they don’t fully explain this emerging success among American citizens.
According to data from the Curaçao Hotel and Tourism Association, these “remarkable” tourist numbers are directly linked to the launch of new luxury all-inclusive resorts, such as the adults-only hotel recently renovated by the popular Hilton brand.
Another asset influencing Americans’ travel choices is the new Sandals Royal Curacao, a beloved brand with thousands of loyal customers.
So don’t wait any longer. Pick this fall and come visit!