The surprises were multiple. i booked this hotel on a whim very late at night and thought we were at the marriott resort. alas, i was wrong and we were at the more urban marriott courtyard facing cruise ships, no beach and it was a shock. however the problem was me, not the hotel. front desk staff kerensa was unbelievably kind and helpful, set us up in a great room that didnt face the cruise ships. i came out of my funk and enjoyed one week at the lovely, friendly, fresh hotel. the hot tub was hot, the access to good restaurants was fun and we walked to the wonderful gelato spot across the way.
curacao is a lovely destination. we had booked a car, and spent a week visiting various snorkeling beaches, if the end if good its all good.