The Accident That Changed My Life — and Led Me Back to Curaçao

People think a Caribbean guide lives a charmed, picture-perfect life. After all, sun, sea, and visitors with smiles — what could go wrong?

But my story took an unexpected turn.

Years ago, an accident changed everything. In a single moment, my days of guiding people in person — with my laughter, stories, and yes, sharing a shot of Blue Curaçao to “corrupt” my guests — were over. I missed showing visitors every colorful street, leading them through Banda Bou’s beaches, celebrating local food at Plasa Bieu, and ending many tours at Mambo Beach where I enjoyed the most amazing goat stew at the Green House. Suddenly, I could not walk those streets, drive those roads, or share those toasts with them anymore.

Taking a Leap of Faith

In that vulnerable place, I felt a strong pull in my heart. God was telling me to move. Leave Curaçao — with no guarantees . That was terrifying. But I trusted Him. I let go of the familiar and packed up my courage.

I left with nothing certain. All I knew was there was one person I trusted, and their family, waiting to help me start again. They opened their arms to me and made me feel at home. Even though everything around me was new, cold, and sometimes lonely, they gave me a place to land.

Becoming “the Local” in a New Land

I thought that speaking perfect Spanish would make me blend in, but I quickly learned I was still an outsider. Little things reminded me I was different. The customs, the rhythm, the sense of belonging — it didn’t feel the same.

But I refused to shrink. Instead, I decided to share my Curaçao pride even more. I told stories about our colorful floating market, our Papiamentu words, our local food. God forbid someone tried to tell me Aruba was better — don’t even go there, Dushi! 😂

Little by little, I became “the local” in my new place, proudly carrying the heartbeat of Curaçao in my stories.

Lessons Learned in Solitude

It was also a time where I faced solitude — and learned to transform it into peace. Before, I was always surrounded by people, stories, and laughter. Suddenly I was alone, with my thoughts and my prayers.

God showed me how to embrace solitude , not loneliness.
He reminded me that even if my body couldn’t guide, His Spirit within me still could.

Why I Created This eBook

I realized something powerful. Even though my feet couldn’t guide you physically, His Spirit could guide me to still serve you — through this eBook.

After the accident, my finances were tight, my health was fragile, and my heart was longing to share this island with the world. So this digital Curaçao Guide became my way to reach you — my way to give you a virtual hug while showing you the real Curaçao.

I put everything I know and love into these pages so that even if you only have one day, you can feel confident, connected, and welcome.

My Invitation to You

So if you’ve ever dreamed of exploring Curaçao beyond the cruise terminal, of walking alleys that tell stories, of tasting food from grandma’s kitchen, then I’m still here — guiding you digitally.

Whether you stay one day or a lifetime, you are welcome.
Let my guide be the bridge between your dream and your reality.

With blessings and all my love,

Grace Winklaar
Founder, Destinations

🙏🏼💙

“Ready to explore Curaçao with me? Click here to get my one-day VIP guide.”