Curaçao is not only a paradise for beach lovers, but it also offers a variety of supermarkets and local markets where both locals and tourists can find everything they need for their groceries. Whether you’re looking for fresh produce, local products, or international brands, Curaçao has something for everyone. In this blog, we’ll explore the most popular supermarkets, local markets, and provide helpful tips for shopping on the island.
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Popular Supermarkets in Curaçao
Curaçao has several supermarkets offering a wide range of products. The most popular include:
- Van den Tweel Curaçao: One of the largest and most well-known supermarkets on the island, Van den Tweel offers a wide selection of fresh products, from fruits and vegetables to meat and dairy. You’ll also find international brands and local specialties.
- Lunapark Curaçao: If you’re looking for lower prices and bulk purchases, Lunapark is the perfect supermarket. This chain offers products at lower prices, making it ideal for larger shopping trips or families. They carry both local and imported items.
- Goisco Supermarket: Goisco is an affordable option for daily groceries. They offer a variety of fresh products, as well as well-known brands. It’s a go-to for locals and tourists who are looking for reliable and budget-friendly shopping.
- Mangusa Supermarket: Mangusa is a well-established supermarket known for its wide range of products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and imported goods. It’s a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
- Centrum Supermarkt: Centrum is one of Curaçao’s leading supermarkets, known for its wide selection of products at fair prices. From fresh produce and meats to household items and imported goods, Centrum caters to a diverse range of shoppers. Its central location and reliable stock make it a go-to option for many residents and visitors.
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The Floating Market in Willemstad
In addition to supermarkets, Curaçao also offers the chance to shop directly from local markets. The Floating Market in Willemstad is one of the most famous markets, where boats from Venezuela dock to sell fresh vegetables, fruits, and fish. Here, you can find tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and bananas, as well as local spices and seafood.
The Floating Market is a great place to buy fresh, local products at reasonable prices. It offers a unique experience and is a must-visit for anyone looking for authentic island products.
What to Expect from Supermarkets and Markets in Curaçao
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables in Curaçao: Supermarkets like Van den Tweel, Vreugdenhill, and Goisco offer a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. If you’re looking for even fresher produce, the Floating Market is an excellent option for locally grown fruits and vegetables at competitive prices.
- International Products: Since Curaçao is an international island, many supermarkets carry imported products from around the world. Whether you’re looking for European cheeses, American snacks, or Asian spices, you’ll find plenty of international products at places like Van den Tweel or Cost u Less.
- Local Specialties: While we’re not diving into local food in detail, supermarkets carry a variety of local spices and other ingredients that are essential for Curaçao’s cuisine. If you want to try cooking local dishes, you’ll find what you need in the larger supermarkets.
Helpful Tips for Grocery Shopping in Curaçao
1. Choose Local Products
Local products are often much more affordable than imported goods from the Netherlands or other countries. By tailoring your shopping list to include fresh, regional ingredients, you can significantly cut costs. From locally grown fruits and vegetables to regional specialties, shopping local not only saves money but also supports the community. Groceries in Curaçao don’t have to be as expensive as you might think!
2. Tipping Etiquette for Bagging Groceries
In Curaçao, it’s common to find someone at the checkout counter helping to bag your groceries and even offering to carry them to your car. Unlike in many other countries, including the Netherlands, this is a standard practice. These helpers often rely on tips as their primary source of income. If you have a full cart of groceries, it’s customary to tip a few guilders. If you’re not planning to leave a tip, it’s polite to pack your own bags and decline their assistance.
3. Check Expiration Dates Carefully
In many supermarkets across Curaçao, it’s not uncommon to find products that are close to or past their expiration date. While canned goods might still be safe a few days past their best-before date, perishable items like meat and dairy require extra attention. Always inspect the expiration dates to avoid unpleasant surprises at home or worse, during cooking.
By following these tips, you’ll shop smarter and stretch your budget further while enjoying everything Curaçao has to offer. Happy shopping!
4. Paying with Credit Cards: Most supermarkets in Curaçao accept credit and debit cards, making it easy for tourists to pay. Just make sure your card is internationally accepted.
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