Welcome back to another edition of #KeepExploring!
In these posts, I talk about spots and areas I’ve found (in Curacao).
And since last week had a very beach vibe ( @gvkanten/keepexploring-ep-5-playa-jeremi) we’re taking it back to the city!
Getting a little urban if you will 😄
This week we’re exploring Scharloo, Curacao.
Scharloo
Scharloo (or Skalo in Papiamentu) is one of the historic neighborhoods in Willemstad. It’s been around since the 17th century and was first supposed to be used for plantations. When the ground proved too hard it later turned into a place where the wealthy would live.
Like many of the historic neighborhoods, there has been a real problem with the upkeep. Skalo fell into decay, with a lot of buildings were abandoned when I first visited Curacao 20-25 years ago.
Luckily there has been a lot of development, awareness and effort in terms of preserving history on Curacao. Many historic neighborhoods have been actively restored, revamped and put to good use.
The combination between flex workspots, restaurants, boutique hotels and art seems to have been a savior. Buildings that were once spooky and abandoned are now home to entrepreneurs and artists.
Street Art
One of these projects is ‘Street Art Skalo’, they have actively worked with local artist to give Skalo a personal touch. It’s has resulted in a colorful, friendly neighborhood that has serves as a unique attraction to both locals and tourists alike (especially in you like art and photography).
mural by Garrick Marchena
Not everything is fixed
That being said, I can only recommend this neighborhood during the day. We’re not at the point yet where you can/should walk alone there at night. There are of course other socio-economic issues that restoration and art can’t fix. There is still a problem with drug use and prostitution in that area, and that part shows itself at night.
This is one of the most famous photo spots in Curacao. And you can see why
This particular mural is by Francis Sling
Easy to visit
During the day it’s very much worth a trip, you can easily get there by car or by a 5 min walk from Punda. Take your camera (and tripod with you!)
I always recommend you take someone with you and if you want to know more about the rich history contact a local guide!
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That’s it for me today!
As always, if you have questions, comments or you’d like to talk about your visit let me know below.
Cheers,
Gyanno (@gvkanten)
P.s. This is post 11/30 of the #HiveBloPoMo challenge, check out the tag :)