History & Traveler Tips

Jan Thiel Beach at Vista Royal offers white sands, palm trees, and calm turquoise waters – a perfect example of this neighborhood’s idyllic setting for visitors.

Jan Thiel’s history traces back over 300 years to its origins as a Dutch colonial plantation. The area was part of the Landhuis Jan Thiel estate (named after early owner Jan Thielen), which once spanned 3,000 acres just east of Willemstad. In the 18th and 19th centuries the plantation produced salt from its extensive salt flats, ran livestock (goats and cattle), and grew fruit for exportthemaritimeexplorer.ca. The plantation’s great house sits on a ridge overlooking the Jan Thiel salt lake, remnants of which (old stone walls and salt ponds) can still be seen today as historical landmarks. In fact, many remains of the old salt-industry infrastructure from before 1863 are still present around the lagoon and the salt flats have become a nature reserve habitat for flamingos and other birds rather than being further developed.

By the 1920s, Jan Thiel’s owners ventured into tourism by creating one of Curaçao’s first seaside resorts on the estate’s bay shoreline. This was the humble beginning of Jan Thiel as a leisure destination. Fast-forward to today, and the Jan Thiel area has expanded exponentially into a major resort and residential zone on Curaçao. Fortunately, large parts of the former plantation remain undeveloped as protected green space (the Jan Thiel Lagoon and surrounding salt pans), preserving a slice of nature right at the edge of the neighborhood.

Vista Royal is the premier residential neighborhood within Jan Thiel, occupying land that was once part of the old plantation. It is a relatively new development – the parcels in Vista Royal only began to be sold and built on since around 2006. In the past 15+ years, Vista Royal has grown rapidly into a highly sought-after villa community, especially popular for vacation homes and luxury rentals. Nearly all plots are now developed (so you won’t encounter much construction noise), and the area is filled with stunning private villas and low-rise residences, kept cohesive by regulations limiting buildings to two stories. Many of these beautiful homes are available as vacation rentals, which means the neighborhood has an inviting mix of local homeowners and international guests at any given time.

Cultural Mix and Local Customs
Curaçao’s culture in Jan Thiel is a reflection of the island’s unique blend of Dutch and Caribbean heritage. You’ll notice a European influence – after all, Curaçao was a Dutch colony from 1634 onward – yet it’s met with a vibrant Afro-Caribbean and local Creole flair. This mix is evident in everything from language to food. Dutch and Papiamentu (the local Creole language) are both commonly spoken in daily life, and most people switch comfortably between these and English or Spanish when talking with visitors. Don’t be surprised if you hear locals chatting in Papiamentu and using the word “dushi” (meaning sweet or nice) to describe everything from good food to a pleasant day – it’s a beloved local expression. At the same time, almost everyone in the hospitality sector speaks English, and Dutch visitors will feel at home seeing familiar Dutch products in the stores.

The architectural style and lifestyle also showcase this cultural blend. While downtown Willemstad (15 minutes away) is famous for its colonial Dutch facades in bright Caribbean colors, Jan Thiel’s Vista Royal features more modern island villas – yet you might still see splashes of tropical pastel hues and indoor-outdoor designs that suit the climate. The influence of the Netherlands is tangible in conveniences like the presence of an Albert Heijn grocery (branded locally as Van der Tweel), which carries many Dutch favorites and caters especially to European tastes . Meanwhile, Curaçao’s local traditions add character to the area: you may catch the sounds of tumba or salsa music during community events, or see families having a Sunday barbecue on the beach – a popular local pastime. When it comes to customs and etiquette, Curaçaoans are generally warm and welcoming. A friendly “Bon dia” (good day) or a handshake with a smile goes a long way, and in more familiar settings locals may greet you with a light kiss on the cheek as is common in the Dutch Caribbean. The island runs on a relaxed “island time” mentality – things happen at a laid-back pace – so patience and a go-with-the-flow attitude are helpful for travelers. Punctuality isn’t as strict as back home, but as a guest it’s still polite to be on time for any arranged tours or meet-ups.

Overall, the cultural mix in Jan Thiel means you’ll experience a safe, family-oriented Caribbean neighborhood that’s infused with European-influenced efficiency and amenities. Embrace the blend: you can enjoy a Dutch-style coffee and pastry at a cafe in the morning and later savor local Curaçaoan cuisine (like keshi yena or fresh caught fish) at a nearby beach restaurant.

Neighborhood Environment & Amenities
Vista Royal is known for its comfortable, upscale beachside living and well-planned layout. The neighborhood is part of greater Jan Thiel, a coastal area about 9 km southeast of Willemstad. It seamlessly blends residential tranquility with resort-style conveniences. The streets in Vista Royal are spacious, well-paved, and logically designed, with sidewalks and streetlights that make it easy and safe to walk around day or night. Being a high-end area, it’s also one of the safer parts of the island; nonetheless, it’s wise to follow normal precautions like locking up your home and car, just as you would anywhere.

One of the greatest perks of Vista Royal is how everything is within walking distance or a short drive. At the heart of the area is Jan Thiel Beach – a popular cove lined with palm trees, beach chairs, and a boardwalk of restaurants and bars. The beach itself is actually man-made (the sand and swimming lagoon were engineered by nearby resorts) and is the only artificial beach on Curaçao. Thanks to a rock breakwater, the swimming area is calm and safe, ideal for kids or those who prefer gentle water. You’ll find several beach clubs here, such as Zanzibar, Zest, and Papagayo, offering everything from casual pizza nights to upscale dining and weekly live music.

By day you can rent a sunbed and snorkel (the bay has some fish and seagrass to explore), and by night you might enjoy a cocktail with your toes in the sand. Keep in mind that on weekends the beach can be lively with local families and tourists enjoying happy hour events – a fun atmosphere, though it can mean a bit of music and buzz in the early evenings. For practical needs, Vista Royal has you well-covered. The large Van der Tweel Supermarket (Albert Heijn) at the end of the main road is a favorite spot for groceries, open 7 days a week with long hours. Here you can find imported Dutch cheeses, fresh bread, and all the international staples, as well as local produce. There are also a few gift shops, boutiques, and dive shops in the Jan Thiel Beach plaza, plus ATMs nearby. If you’re staying for a while, you’ll appreciate amenities like the local gym “The Challenge” which offers short-term passes for visitors and even a day spa and a casino at one of the resorts. Should you want to explore beyond Jan Thiel, you can easily drive to other attractions (e.g. the Sea Aquarium, Mambo Beach Boulevard, or historic Willemstad) in 10-20 minutes. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road in Curaçao, as in the U.S. or Europe, and roads are generally well-marked in this area. Parking at Jan Thiel Beach and around Vista Royal is typically free and plentiful, though it can fill up on holiday weekends.

Nature and climate
The environment around Vista Royal is coastal and arid. Curaçao lies outside the hurricane belt, meaning it’s very rare to get a direct hit from tropical storms. The weather is sunny year-round with temperatures around 28–32°C (82–90°F) Steady trade winds keep the heat comfortable most of the time. Being a dry island, Curaçao has cacti, divi-divi trees, and plenty of iguanas and lizards as part of the natural landscape. Just behind Vista Royal is the Jan Thiel Lagoon (salt flats), a scenic natural area where you can spot flamingos feeding at dawn and dusk. There’s a walking and jogging trail through this area – a great way to enjoy local flora and fauna. It’s recommended to wear mosquito repellent in the rainy season when passing near mangroves or standing water (the island doesn’t have malaria, but mosquitoes can be pesky after rains). Also, because of the desert-like climate, water is a precious resource. The tap water here comes from a state-of-the-art desalination and filtration system and is perfectly safe to drink. In fact, Curaçao’s tap water meets some of the highest purity standards in the world. You can confidently drink from the faucet (no need for bottled water), but try to conserve water where possible since it takes a lot of energy to produce and locals are mindful of not wasting it.

In terms of daily etiquette: remember to cover up your swimwear when you leave the beach or pool areas – it’s considered inappropriate locally to walk around shops or restaurants in just a bathing suit. Casual summer clothing is fine everywhere, just bring a light cover or shirt when going into grocery stores or off-beach locales. If you’re driving, note that seat belts are required and using a phone without hands-free is illegal, as in many countries. Drivers here are generally courteous; it’s common for them to slow down to let others in.

Helpful Tips for Every Type of Traveler
Families: Jan Thiel and Vista Royal are very family-friendly. The calm, enclosed bay at Jan Thiel Beach is great for children to swim safely, and some restaurants even have play areas or kid’s menus. You’ll often see local and visiting families spending the day together at the beach or having picnics under the palapas. The neighborhood is quiet at night, so kids (and parents) can sleep soundly. If you need baby gear or a crib, there are rental services on the island that can help. For a fun outing, consider a short drive to the Curaçao Sea Aquarium or the ostrich farm – both are enjoyable for kids.

Couples: Vista Royal can be a romantic getaway for couples. Strolls on the beach at sunset are lovely. While Jan Thiel faces mostly south, you still get beautiful sky colors in the evenings and the lights of waterfront restaurants create a charming ambiance. There are several oceanfront restaurants and beach bars perfect for date nights, whether you want an upscale dinner with a sea view or a toes-in-sand casual cocktail. Many resorts in the area offer day spa services and couples’ massages if you’re looking to relax. For a bit of adventure, you can rent a kayak or go snorkeling together in the clear waters of Caracas Bay (an easy paddle from Jan Thiel) or even book a sailing trip to Klein Curaçao island for the day. The vibe in the neighborhood is laid-back and private, so you’ll have plenty of space to enjoy a quiet, intimate vacation.

Long-Stay Visitors: If you’re planning an extended stay, Vista Royal is an excellent choice. The area wasn’t just built for tourists, it’s a residential community too, so you have all the everyday conveniences at your fingertips. The supermarket nearby is stocked like an international grocery and is open daily (even on Sundays) which makes cooking your own meals or sticking to a routine very easy. You’ll find fitness facilities (gym, yoga classes, etc.) and even a medical clinic and pharmacy within a short drive if needed. The reliable infrastructure (good roads, stable electricity and water, and high-speed internet available) means you can work remotely or live comfortably for weeks or months. The neighborhood is also well-connected: local phone SIM cards are affordable, and you can get around with a rental car or even the local bus (there is a bus stop at the Jan Thiel main road, though service can be infrequent). A tip for longer stays: engage with the community! There are often events like weekend markets, live music nights, or fitness groups at the beach – a great way to meet both locals and other expats. And remember, electricity and water are expensive on the island, so be mindful of air-conditioning use and turn off lights when not needed (this helps the environment and keeps utility costs reasonable).

Accessibility: Curaçao is gradually improving on accessibility, and Jan Thiel Beach in particular is one of the more wheelchair-friendly beaches on the island. There are paved pathways and ramps that allow wheelchair users to get down to the sand and near the water easily, and the public restrooms at the beach include accessible stalls. Many of the newer restaurants and hotels in the area are built on one level or have ramps/elevators (for example, Papagayo Beach facilities are mostly flat terrain). The main road and sidewalks in Vista Royal are wheelchair and stroller friendly, though note that curb cuts can be inconsistent in Curaçao. Public transportation here is not very accessible. Buses often are not equipped for wheelchairs and don’t always stick to a tight schedule. It’s recommended that travelers with mobility needs rent an appropriate vehicle or use specialized transfer services like Joseph Cares, which provides wheelchair-accessible vans. Overall, you’ll find the community welcoming and willing to help. If you have any special requirements, don’t hesitate to communicate them. The aim is to make sure everyone can enjoy the beauty of Jan Thiel comfortably.

Vista Royal in Jan Thiel offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modern comfort. You’ll be living in an area that once provided the island with salt and sustenance and now provides visitors with sunshine and relaxation.

The Dutch-Caribbean character of Curaçao means you get the best of both worlds: a safe, friendly island vibe with European-level amenities. Whether you’re here for a quick escape or an extended stay, with family or as a couple, you can look forward to a neighborhood that is as diverse and accommodating as the island itself.

Enjoy your stay in dushi Curaçao – and welcome to VILLA VERDE in Vista Royal!