Hotel Intel: Therapy dolphins, total accessibility mark this resort duo in Curaçao

I got goosebumps when I met some of the most distinguished residents of the idyllic Caribbean nation of Curaçao. No, they were not showbiz celebrities, royals or sports stars. My new BFs were dolphins who play a crucial role at the Curaçao Dolphin Therapy and Research Center. They’re also a big draw for people staying at the Dolphin Suites and Wellness Curaçao, a boutique resort.

The two non-government enterprises are almost adjacent, so they work together accommodating special needs guests of all ages. The hotel and therapy centre are about 100 metres from the ocean, with adapted transport and beach access.

“About 50 per cent of our clients are here to participate in the therapy-assisted program,” said Alette Borger, manager and co-owner of the Dolphin hotel. “Our hotel is completely wheelchair accessible, so it is a great fit, but we also have regular sun-seekers who love our pool, and we hold wellness retreats.”

Here is a look at the dolphin duo with a focus on visitors with special needs.

Dolphin Suites: The hotel is renovating its 21 existing rooms and suites and is opening a major new wing of 38 more, which includes configurations a big as a three-bedroom apartment. All accommodations are fully accessible, equipped with anti-slip floors, adapted bathrooms and decor in soft colours for a low-stimulus environment. Guests without disabilities like this hotel, too, especially for the extra space in the guest rooms.