WILLEMSTAD – The eastern region of Curaçao, known as Bandariba, is rapidly transforming into a new hotspot for residential and tourism development, according to the Association of Dutch Caribbean Economists. The group, often referred to as the “economists’ club,” drew this conclusion after a field visit to four major development projects in the area.
The annual excursion aims to give members firsthand insight into the island’s economic progress by connecting directly with entrepreneurs and investors.
“Seeing projects up close and hearing where they succeed or face setbacks provides a deeper understanding than statistics alone,” said co-organizer Rob van den Bergh.
Key Projects in Bandariba
The group visited three large-scale housing projects—Bella Vista Estate, Hofi Vida Nova, and Hofi Sint Joris—and concluded their tour at the Sandals Royal Curaçao luxury resort, which has quickly impacted the island’s tourism profile.
The common thread across all four sites was the scale, ambition, and geographic spread of development. While the central and western parts of Curaçao have historically been more attractive to developers, significant investment is now flowing into the east.
Bella Vista Estate
The tour began at Bella Vista Estate, situated on one of the highest points in the region. Developer Jim van Luipen described the project as inspired by U.S.-style resort living, targeting the upper middle class who live and work in Curaçao. Homes, priced between ANG 900,000 and 1.7 million, follow a uniform architectural model.
Van Luipen noted that sales are strong, but the main challenge is a labor shortage. “Thankfully, government policy has recently eased restrictions on foreign labor,” the report noted.
Hofi Vida Nova
At Hofi Vida Nova, the focus was on sustainability. Developer Freddy Curiel led a tour of the site, which offers starter homes priced from ANG 550,000, equipped with solar panels, parks, outdoor gyms, and greywater irrigation systems.
The project is already partially inhabited, with sales progressing well. One notable advantage: much of the construction material was purchased before the major global price hikes in 2022 and 2023.
Hofi Sint Joris
Located on the northeast coast, Hofi Sint Joris spans 55 hectares of former plantation land. Co-developer Rieuwen Groeneveld shared his insights on local project development, stressing the importance of on-island experience and knowledge.
All plots have been sold—some to individuals, others to developers—and the area is evolving into a mixed-use neighborhood featuring a padel court and recycling center. Developers also reached an agreement with plantation owners to grant residents free access to Sint Joris Bay, with an access road currently under construction.
Sandals Royal Curaçao
The final stop was Sandals Royal Curaçao, where the group was welcomed by Kimberly Fecunda-Janga for a presentation, refreshments, and a guided tour.
“Sandals has reshaped Curaçao’s tourism image—especially in the American market,” said Fecunda-Janga. The resort emphasizes high-end offerings, including butler suites, and leverages U.S.-targeted marketing campaigns.
She also highlighted Sandals’ efforts to stimulate off-resort spending, including through vouchers for local restaurants.
With developments like these, Bandariba is quickly gaining ground as a prime destination for both residents and tourists, reflecting a dynamic shift in Curaçao’s economic and spatial planning landscape.
