How Cruise Guests Help Curaçao’s Hidden Gems Shine
Kura Hulanda Village is a “hidden gem,” where cruise guests can explore local businesses, culture and history beyond the waterfront.
Beyond Curaçao’s beaches and waterfront, businesses in Kura Hulanda Village say cruise tourism helps visitors discover shops and experiences they might otherwise never find.
At House of Stroop, owner Emma Teunissen is always happy about the many cruise guests seeking out her shop for freshly made stroopwafels.
House of Stroop welcomes both cruise guests and crew members who return throughout the year whenever their ships visit Curaçao.
“We have so many cruise guests looking for our store because they have heard about us from other guests, and they want to try a stroopwafel,” she says.
Freshly made stroopwafels are among the reasons cruise guests and crew members return to House of Stroop.
The shop has also become a popular stop for crew members who return whenever their ships call on Curaçao.
“They like to hang out here because it’s close to the ship, and cozy. They feel a little bit of home away from home, and we welcome them every time,” Emma adds.
For other businesses in the area like Kas Lila Gifts, cruise tourism plays a major role in helping visitors discover the area.
Kas Lila Gifts & More was among the first businesses to open in Kura Hulanda Village.
“Our seasons depend on the cruise ship schedule,” Gabriela Bracamonte, owner of Kas Lila, mentions. “Cruise ships make a huge impact on our island’s economy.”
Together, businesses like House of Stroop and Kas Lila show how cruise tourism can help spread economic activity beyond the port and into the businesses that define the destination.
