When you think of Curaçao, you’ll probably think of sun, sea, carnival and sandy white beaches first. If you want to hibernate on your sun bed for two weeks or a party on a weekday, this lovely island has got you covered. But if, (like yours truly), you can’t sit or lay still for a minute and you’re done counting all the fish in the sea, the island has much more to offer. The former no-go area’s are being restored and renovated rapidly and are true magnets to the creative minds and entrepreneurs of the island. New hotspots are springing up like mushrooms and you’ll need the other half of your vacay to visit all of them. Just like the neighborhood Scharloo (or Skálo like the locals say). It is situated in a more quiet part of Willemstad but it’s getting hotter by the minute. You’ll even find Curaçao’s very own graffiti alley like Toronto or Sao Paulo (but smaller). Curaçao has many artist like Garrick Marchena and Robert Rodrigues whom are sharing their street art all over the island. Oh and if you’re done with that breakfast buffet at your hotel, why not change the scenery and hop down to Scharloo’s brand new eatery? Want to know more about this cool neighborhood? Check out the rest below!
Curaçao’s very own graffiti area. The island is a must visit if you are into colorful backdrops. So many candy colored houses to use as a nice background for your pictures. Next to colorful architecture in this area you’ll also run into street art that makes you think(*kiko ta felisidat berdadero: what is true happiness?).
Whilst this pictures was taken in another gorgeous part of the island (Otrobanda) just wanted to give you an idea of the beautiful colors of Curaçao..! ?
Just a small part of Scharloo street art.
Ladies who lunch. Curaçao’s latest hotspots are not just to enjoy breakfast or lunch. You’ll also run into many of the islands creatives and entrepreneurs having meetings (networking!). No business meeting here but a lovely brunch for my friend and colleague Mercedes and yours truly.
The place to be at the moment in Scharloo is Fleur de Marie eatery! This brand new establisment opened not too long ago and was founded by the two lady bosses Korra and Angela (who run the world..?). They use mostly local products (farm to table) so in general very sustainable.
Make art not war. Don’t forget to take a peek at Fleur de Marie’s backyard. Have your lunch in the shade with a view of this art beauty.
It is custom for people on the island to have a hot lunch and a light meal in the evening (way better for the digestion by the way). At Fleur de Marie you can also enjoy a hot mid-day meal (ask about their daily specials) but also get your morning coffee (must.try.the.pumpkin.donut!).
Wine lover? Next to getting a nice bottle of wine you can also participate in special wine events (keep an eye on their Facebook page). And while you’re there, don’t forget to take a look in the shop. Find loads of goodies from essential oils to jewelry right there. Definitely worth the visit! Fleur de Marie Eatery: van Raderstraat 9-11, Scharloo.
Happy happy, joy joy! Things like this makes me (kind of a tree hugger) so happy. Also to be found in Scharloo: Integra Natural! A store with all natural and hand made beauty products, soaps and cleaning products. Also you can partake in many workshops where they teach you to make your own organic stuff. To be found at Bargestraat 28D in Scharloo. If you would like to know more about the local street art, what it stands for and who made it. You can also book a guided art tour through this nice neighborhood.
Let’s go to Skálo!
xx Mishanou
