Situation and surrounding areas

The area of Brakkeput is not as well known as the bordering areas of Jan Sofat and Jan Thiel. But that is bound to change, as Brakkeput is right between those already well developed and popular areas near the Spanish Waters. But it will keep its own identity as the beautiful nature with mansions, hills and tranquility will prevail. It offers some of the most attractive areas of Curaçao.

The name 'Brakkeput' means a well with brackish water. That is why this area, though one of the driest of the island, still could be used as a plantation. Its history goes back until the 18th century. It seems that the one plantation in those days developed to three of them. When you are driving through this area you will encounter the old names of the plantations: Brakkeput Ariba (highest part), Brakkeput Mei Mei (middle part) and Brakkeput Abou (lowest part). On the plantations they had cattle, some vegetables such as corn and beans which were used as food for the cattle and the slaves. The plantations, however, diminished in importance and the area got some new destinations. Mainly recreation (because of the proximity to the Spanish Waters), tourism and the development of new homes. And...dining is wonderful here as the old mansion 'Brakkeput Mei Mei' hosts one of the most authentic restaurants on the island.

Villa Pura Vida is one of the brand new villas which is built here. Whether you like beaches, culture or a swinging nightlife... everything is close by but it will stay quiet and peaceful in Brakkeput itself. A car is all you need to bring you anywhere you like.

Within 5 minutes you reach a well equipped supermarket where you can have all the usual items originating from Europe and North America. Most meat is imported from South America and you will taste the difference when having a BBQ on your own porch: extremely tasteful and very cheap...

Prefer dining outside? It will be difficult to make a choice from the many restaurants with international or local cuisine. Dining out is a feast! And much cheaper than on many other Caribbean islands.

In 7-9 minutes you drive to Salina, with its many shops ranging from international (like Tommy Hilfiger, Benetton or Ralph Lauren) to local stores. Not only shopping is great here, so is the dining, even in the well known fast food restaurants. They are all here so your kids (or yourself) don't have to do without it.

More sophisticated shopping and dining is available at Zuikertuin Mall, only a few minutes further away. Don't miss the ice cream parlor of Bella Italia or lunch at Omundo's!

Souvenir shops are widespread in Punda and Otrobanda, the historic districts of Willemstad. Punda is even a Unesco World Heritage site and rightly so... Wandering through the streets and alleys you may even wonder whether you are in Amsterdam or Curaçao... but the ever present sunshine will soon tell you the answer! The entrance of the large inner harbor of Curaçao divides the two parts of the city, with the famous Pontoon Bridge connecting both of them. Many terraces, bars and restaurants are along the cays and give you a wonderful setting for a few relaxing minutes (or hours), watching the large vessels sailing past your table. And if you want to be impressed by the history of this old Dutch colony, don't forget to visit the impressive Slavery Museum at the Kura Hulanda Hotel.

More active? Curaçao in general, but the area of Brakkeput in particular, is the place to be for sports enthusiasts. The Spanish Waters (a large inner section of the Caribbean Sea) is well known for its boating facilities and while sailing you enjoy the view of luxurious villas of the VIP's of this world and the impressive Table Mountain.

Only a few minutes away, the Jan Thiel Natural Preserve offers beautiful hikes or bike rides along its lagoons with many birds and flamingo's. But for many people the beautiful beaches with its world class diving (mostly shore diving, so no boats are necessary) and snorkeling are more than enough to fill a two weeks holiday. They are all close by.