The Koningin Julianabrug is a long, blue and yellow bridge, 185 feet above the ground. From there, the view across Willemstad, the capital of Curacao, is postcard-perfect. Anyone can see what makes the tiny Caribbean island – the size of Andorra, and situated less than 40 miles from Venezuela – so special.
To the south lies the town, with its colourful facades, its floating bridge and the sea. Turn to the north, and the Schottegat lagoon highlights the flares of the oil refinery, a symbol of the local economy. To the west, the rocks known as The Three Brothers cast their shadow over Piscadera Bay and symbolise the arid landscape – a breeding ground for cacti and reptiles.
In that direction, the aptly-named ‘Road to the West' winds its way through the 171-square-mile nation. Once you're outside Willemstad, the road is flanked by brightly coloured lottery kiosks and stony paths that lead to beaches and private resorts.
