Let's be honest! Studying abroad comes in handy with a good shopping culture! Everyone wants to get time to explore markets and pick a few goodies to add to the cart list! Shopaholics welcome to Sint Eustatius, the land of beauty and charming crafts!
St Eustatius is not known as a main shopping destination, as most products here are imported. However, no duty is charged on imports, so luxury items, such as perfume, jewelry, and alcohol, come much cheaper in St Eustatius than in neighboring Caribbean countries. Most restaurateurs travel over to the island from nearby St Kitts to grab a bargain, as even imported food is cheaper here.
The capital of Oranjestad provides the best shopping, and is the major trading hub of the island. The usual shopping hours in St Eustatius are between 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., and then 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m., but some stores shut on Saturdays. For souvenir shopping, head to Mazinga, which sells a range of products and books about St Eustatius from its location in Oranjestad Upper Town.
The store is closed on weekends, but there is another branch, set in a historic warehouse by the bay. Stenapa, located in Oranjestad Lower Town, is the main office of the National Parks Foundation of St Eustatius, and auctions guidebooks, postcards, and souvenirs. For historical-related souvenirs, head for the St Eustatius Historical Foundation, which sells books, postcards, jewelry, artwork, and local vehicle plates.
Lijfrock in Vannesweg is an awesome jewelry store that stocks a mixture of imported goods and pieces made by local designers. Alois Boutique is a common fashion store in Vantonningen, while surf wear and other apparel can be sourced from the Golden Rock Dive Center in Oranjestad Lower Town.
Paper Corner in Vantonnigen is a restored wooden rum shop, merchandising a selection of Caribbean rum and other liquor; however, shoppers should be aware that the rum is no longer made on St Eustatius itself. To buy other food and drink products, go to one of the locally-owned supermarkets, such as Brown’s Superette on Whitewall Road, or Duggind Supermarket and Department store in De Windtweg. For health food, look out for the Herb Center in Statia Mall.
