En Español

Meet Me Downtown

By Jennifer van der Kwast

Curaçao is an exceptional destination for many reasons, but its true pride and joy is the distinctive downtown Punda, where culture and commerce blend together seamlessly. Comb the streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and you may stumble upon a 360-year-old landmark synagogue, a modern Maritime Museum, a bustling fish market, a luxury European-brand boutique or an intimate seaside terrace.

You can thank the Downtown Management Organization (DMO) for making your journey through this district such a rich and rewarding experience. For 22 years, the DMO has worked hard to keep the streets of Punda safe, clean and lively. Director Raygen Zuiverloon says the challenge is striking a balance between honoring the historic identity of Punda and breathing new life into the neighborhood. Zuiverloon points to the trendy Pietermaai-Smal, where new bars, restaurants and cafés have ushered in a remarkable renaissance of the once-neglected quarter. Don't be afraid to explore and get lost—in fact, Zuiverloon encourages it! You may be surprised by the diversity of the people, the smells and the tastes you'll encounter.

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