We’re thrilled to share some amazing news: American Airlines will soon launch direct flights from Chicago to Curaçao, making it easier than ever for travelers from the Windy City to discover our Caribbean paradise. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic escape, a solo retreat, or a sunny family vacation, Papagayo Beach Hotel & Resort is your perfect home base in Curaçao. 

Why Chicagoans Will Fall in Love with Curaçao and Papagayo Beach Hotel & Resort 

1. A Seamless Escape from Chicago’s Chill 

With this new direct route, American Airlines brings the Caribbean closer to Chicago than ever. In just a few hours, you can swap gray skies for clear turquoise waters and experience the warm welcome of Papagayo Beach Hotel & Resort, located right on the stunning Jan Thiel Beach.

2. Two Distinct Stays, One Dream Destination 

• The Papagayo Beach Hotel is perfect for couples and solo travelers looking for a stylish, beachfront experience. With sleek design, ocean-view rooms, and direct access to Papagayo Beach Club’s infinity saltwater pool, it’s the ideal choice for adults looking to relax and recharge. 

• The Papagayo Beach Resort features spacious villas, ideal for families and groups of friends. With private terraces, full kitchens, and multiple bedrooms, these villas offer comfort, flexibility, and privacy in a tropical garden setting. 

3. Jan Thiel Beach – Curaçao’s Crown Jewel

Our unbeatable location at Jan Thiel Beach puts you in the heart of one of the island’s most iconic and dynamic destinations. Known for its calm, crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and breathtaking Caribbean views, Jan Thiel is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.

But Jan Thiel is more than a beach—it’s a full lifestyle hub. Within walking distance, you'll find multiple restaurants offering everything from gourmet cuisine to casual bites, a vibrant beach club (home to the famous Papagayo Beach Club), and even beach tennis courts for those who love to stay active by the sea.

Whether you're in the mood to party, relax, enjoy a romantic sunset, or spend time with friends and family, everything is right here—in one convenient, walkable area. Jan Thiel blends natural beauty with energy and elegance, making it the ultimate Curaçao experience for every kind of traveler.

And the best part? Papagayo Beach Hotel & Resort is right in the center of it all.

4. Endless Adventures and Cultural Gems

From snorkeling and scuba diving to sunset sailing and ATV tours, Curaçao offers no shortage of adventure—but there's so much more beyond the beach. The island has a rich and layered history, shaped by African, Dutch, Spanish, and Caribbean influences. 

Don’t miss a visit to Willemstad, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where colorful colonial buildings line the waterfront and street art fills the alleyways with local stories. For history lovers, Curaçao is home to Mikvé Israel-Emanuel Synagogue, the oldest active synagogue in the Americas, famous for its sand-covered floors and beautifully preserved architecture.

You can also explore Fort Amsterdam, Landhuis Chobolobo where you can experience and learn more about the distillation process of the world-famous Blue Curaçao Liqueur and enjoy the taste such as it has been produced since 1896. There are also several museums that tell the story of the island’s past, including its important Jewish, African, and colonial heritage. 

It’s a destination where every street corner has a story—and every moment is an opportunity to connect with something authentic. 

5. All You Need, Right Where You Are 

 Stay close to the action at Papagayo Beach Plaza, where you'll find a gym, spa, shops, restaurants, a casino, and even a beachwear boutique—all just steps from your room or villa. It’s the perfect mix of luxury, convenience, and Caribbean charm.

6. Culinary Delights and Beachfront Dining 

Chicago is known for its world-class food scene—and if you're a foodie, Curaçao won’t disappoint. From the moment you arrive, you'll find flavors as rich and diverse as the island itself. At Papagayo Beach Club, you can enjoy everything from hearty breakfasts to fresh seafood and signature cocktails right by the water. 

But the local cuisine goes even deeper: try fried 'piská kora' or 'purrunchi', a local favorite crispy fish served whole, alongside funchi fries—a Curaçaoan take on polenta sticks. The island's culinary culture is a delicious fusion of Dutch influences and Caribbean spice, with everything from steamed fish in creole sauce to satay, bitterballen, and decadent Dutch desserts. Whether you're dining beachside, at a food truck, or exploring local hotspots, Curaçao is a true culinary adventure waiting to be tasted. 

7. Perfect for Every Type of Traveler 

Couples and solo travelers will love the modern comfort and beachfront vibe of Papagayo Beach Hotel, where you can wake up to sea views, unwind by the infinity pool, and enjoy the luxury of being steps away from Jan Thiel Beach and Papagayo’s vibrant beach club. 

Families and groups of friends will feel right at home in the spacious villas of Papagayo Beach Resort, complete with private terraces, full kitchens, and plenty of room to gather, relax, and make unforgettable memories together. 

And for the more adventurous? Rent a car and head to the west side of the island, where Curaçao reveals its raw natural beauty. Hike the trails of Christoffel National Park and take in panoramic views from the island’s highest point. Stop at Playa Piskado, where fishermen clean their catch right on the beach—and sea turtles gather, offering an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Discover Playa Kenepa Chiki (Kleine Knip) and Playa Abou (Grote Knip), two of the island’s most photogenic beaches with vibrant blue waters and soft white sand. Drive up to Santa Martha Bay for a peaceful lookout over rolling green hills and turquoise coves. Explore Shete Boka National Park with its dramatic blowholes and crashing waves, or visit the Watamula Hole, where sea and land meet in a powerful display of nature. 

Whether you’re here to unwind or explore, Papagayo Beach Hotel & Resort is the perfect launch point for every kind of Curaçao escape.