Barbados as alternative to Curacao?

Hi everyone!

My boyfriend and I initially hoped to take a trip to Curacao this November during Thanksgiving week but the flight prices are looking too pricey despite my research saying 6-8 weeks out was the best time to purchase. I already have an itinerary for Curacao.

As an alternative, we’re thinking of going to Barbados instead. We initially chose Curacao since it seemed more off the beaten path and we’re looking for a relaxing vacation mostly beach hopping with a few nature/adventure-y activities mixed in. We love food and good restaurants but not our biggest priority for this trip. We’re not looking for resort style vacations or to party really. Our budget outside of flights/lodging is about $200 a day give or take.

So..

Should we hang tight and try to book tickets to Curacao in the next 2 weeks or should we transition to Barbados?

If Barbados, what are your recs for:

• Lodging thats not a resort or hotel (Airbnb, private apts. etc.)
• Best beaches
• Cultural/history activities to get to know the island
• Nature/adventure activities
• Restaurants

Any insights appreciated and I am also working on going through the search function as well 🙂