Robert and Ardis first met as young adults, striking up a holiday romance after their paths crossed at a restaurant. Ardis recalls how her friends saw him looking at her and teased her about it. It was a little bit of love at first sight, adds Robert. But as with most holiday romances, eventually ‘real life’ intervenes, and Robert and Ardis went their separate ways. 

For both, life went on. Years passed. They were both married, and both divorced.

One day, Robert saw Ardis on Facebook and sent her a message. The message went into a spam folder and it was a long time before Ardis noticed it. Robert thought that it had been ignored, so to get the reply so much later was a total surprise! After chatting awhile, the pair made plans to see each other.

And so, three decades after they first met, here officially begins the love story of Robert and Ardis.

Robert is a charming Dutchman. He has multiple sclerosis and relies on a wheelchair for mobility. Ardis is a beautiful Icelandic who assists Robert in his daily routines. They have been visiting Curacao every year since 2016, spending two months at a time in this special paradise that they have come to love.

Apart from the local food and friendly faces, one of their most memorable moments in Curacao was when Robert swam with dolphins in 2018. His eyes light up when he recalls the freedom and joy that the experience provided. As an avid swimmer, it was a dream come true and Robert’s first time swimming in 20 years.

The love and comfortability between the two is obvious, as they share laughter over old memories. It’s a connection and devotion that is lovely to witness.

Dolphin Suites is a home away from home for the couple. Robert mentions that they stay in the same apartment every year - a spacious studio fully equipped with all the necessary amenities – a hoist, shower chair, and ample room for Robert's wheelchair. 

When the couple heard of the hotel renovation plans, they helped with some of the designs, giving insight into the room design that could make their stay even more comfortable and accessible.

Ardis was even given an exclusive behind the scenes tour during construction and it was then she picked their room for their 2024 stay.

Over and above the hotel equipment, additional care and support is provided by Carin Cares, a service that offers helping aids to ensure that accessible holidays are as comfortable as possible.

As the hotel and as the staff complement, we are truly privileged to be able to host Robert and Ardis during their visits. It is always a pleasure to reconnect with them and we look forward to their annual arrival in the early months of the year. (The locals also recognise them and say hello to the couple - they’re basically island celebs at this point!)

An enchanting tale of love that stands the test of time, and an inspiration to perhaps make some of our own memories on this very special island. Dolphin Suites prides itself on our accessible accommodation - take a look at our accommodation options here.