Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine October 2017 | Page 216
Punda Vibes, Curacao The uninitiated may ask, “Where is Punda anyway?” Well, Punda is one of the 4 districts of Willemstad, Curacao’s capital. A visit to Punda is an absolute not-to- be-missed as this region is a vibrant hive of activity, during the day and night. Its streets are pedestrian-only, shopping opportunities are many and the scenery is a photographer’s dream. Everyone who has ever visited Curacao MUST be able to say they went to Punda and that they had a blast will be a given - how could they not? Tourists can visit the many landmarks such as the Handelskade, Floating Pantoon Bridge and Fort Amsterdam. They can also explore Willemstad’s other districts Pietermaai, Scharlooo and Otrabanda which are within walking distance and offer a different flavour. At the end of the sight- seeing excursion, visitors should head to Punda’s Old Market where a veritable feast of traditional local food awaits. In the evening, relax at a cafe or restaurant, listening to live music on one of the various terraces, while sipping a Blue Lagoon. Or take a nice romantic walk at the St Anna Bay. Indeed, those are quite lovely experiences, however, one of the best to be had in Punda, will be on a Thursday, which is the day designated to be the one where the true Punda Vibes will be felt. Punda Thursday Vibes is held every Thursday evening in this iconic area of Willemstad. Bars and restaurants offer Happy Hour and dinner specials. Stores remain open during sunset hours while live music and special activities will keep you entertained. You can enjoy artwalk in the alleys where local artists showcase their art; shop at the Vibes Markets at the outdoor vendor stalls; enjoy folkloric dancing and participate in a Latin Vibes free workshop where you’ll start with the free workshop from 7:00-8:00 pm, after which you can dance the night away . . . Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Kizomba, Zouk! The night ends with a fireworks display. At the end of the year, Punda is a delightful sight with sparkling, festive Christmas lights and a range of fun and exciting activities. This year, Punda celebrates 20 years of being on the Unesco World Heritage list and in 2016, they won the CITI social innovation award. Don’t miss a visit to Punda on your next rrip to Curacao! You can find more information about Punda and Punda Vibes at these Links: Facebook: Website: