OUR STORY

In Curaçao, you will experience the island’s hospitality and the colorful buildings in Willemstad’s historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking over the pontoon bridge you will find The Renaissance Mall & Rif Fort. Built in 1828 to defend Willemstad’s 18th century Otrobanda district, the fort now guards a variety of shops, bars and restaurants. The pace is slow and the location beautiful. Travelers staying on the island as well as cruise passengers enjoying a day in port have discovered the fort and adjacent mall. With the Mega Pier, which is only 7 minutes’ walk to Rif Fort, cruise passengers can now stroll into the fort and mall for some shopping and sightseeing.

Experience the History and Fun
Rif Fort had many uses that included serving as a brothel, police headquarters, a prison and a radiotelegraphy station. Climb the fort’s stairs for a commodore’s eye-view. After the fort, visit the Otrobanda pontoon bridge next to the fort for views of the historic Willemstad across the water. Follow the Historical Walking Tour across our Mall and discover all about Curaçao and its heritage; the Population, the Languages, Nature, Punda and Otrobanda, the Forts.

The days of soldiers’ rations at Rif Fort are gone. Today, the fort houses multiple eateries. From Ribs, Hamburgers, Steak and Seafood to Sushi and Italian, it’s all there. Eat your ice cream before it melts while you sit on the rainbow-colored cow – you’ll know it when you see it. Regardless if it’s a cold beer and a game on television, an evening aperitif or a glass of wine under the stars, the fort’s bars are ready for you. Try Caribe Ponche, a liqueur made with rum, vanilla, eggs, milk and spices or have a Cuban Cigar. Have a look at all the options at FOOD & DRINKS.

The fort and the Renaissance Mall just outside the fort’s gate house dozens of shops including European and American designers, artisan boutiques and jewelers. Visit the local art gallery for crafts and shell jewelry. For all stores see: SHOPPING.

Day visitors and hotel guests at Renaissance Curacao Resort and Casino, located in the middle of the mall, are welcome indoors at the resort’s Vegas-style Carnaval Casino. The casino houses 14 gaming tables and 375 slot machines. When you feel like watching a movie, there is also a cinema on site. See: ENTERTAINMENT.