Shopping
Shopping
Island Treasures by Susan Campbell There’s a bounty of precious finds, luxurious spoils, and exquisite souvenirs to seek out on this island. Downtown Oranjestad and the Palm Beach strip are awash in retail therapy riches and surrounded by fabulous snack, dine, and drink spots to help you refuel and recharge for more shopping adventure.
The Spanish may have called this island “useless” as it had no precious minerals, but they were wrong. There was gold found on Aruba later in history. And though, the mills have long since closed, that doesn’t mean there’s no treasure still to be found here. And you need not battle like a pirate to secure them either. Just arm yourself with enough energy to navigate the multitude of shopping venues, malls, and districts – indoor and out – that hold loot aplenty for those searching for superb keepsakes.
in resort shopping arcades and secreted away on side streets. More take-home treasures are items like Dutch Delft Blue pottery, local spicy sauces, gourmet chocolates, and fine Dutch cheeses. For those wanting whimsy, there are scads of Aruba logo emblazoned souvenirs, beachwear, and clothing – even flip-flops! Locally made spirits are also a treat. You need never settle for ordinary grog on this island when you can snag some excellent locally made rum or unique liqueurs like ponche crema, Aruba’s answer to potent rumladen eggnog.
More spoils to plunder
Most of Aruba’s stores offer very low duty and no tax, so top-name cameras, electronics, Swiss watches, and brand name technology can be had at great prices. And of course there are lots of duty-free shopping opportunities at the airport too! You should also look for cool items like crafts made from the “lucky nut” called djucu, beautiful hand-carved masks, rare antiques, fine linens, quality perfumes, popular cosmetics, top-notch leather goods, and even Cuban- and Arubanmade cigars. These are all ideal steals to
add to your treasure chest. And if haggling is your pleasure, then visit the stalls of the open-air flea markets. You can even bring back your own “One Happy Island” license plate! And don’t forget the island’s famous aloe products. Aruba’s aloe is among the best quality in the world and you can even tour the aloe farm and factory at their main site. So set your course for shopping nirvana. You won’t need a map to find treasures on this island! !
Seek out swashbuckling styles
All that glitters and then some
Gold, silver, diamonds, designer jewelry, precious gems, pearls, and more are to be found at upscale and reputable shops throughout Aruba. Artworks and fine crafts also dot the landscape in bespoke family-run outfits and funky boutiques
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Men, women, and children will have no problem finding a vast array of designer fashions, casual wear, and tropical holiday styles at the many boutiques and quality clothing shops here. There are also stores that specialize in sportswear, baby clothing, footwear, eyewear, and even hats! Famous brands abound such as Tommy Hilfiger, Nautica, and Benetton to namedrop just a few!
Bottom left photo by Paul van Driel
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