Are you planning to visit the captivating island of Aruba very soon? If that is the case, make sure to allocate a small place in your luggage and your budget for a few souvenirs before returning home. Shopping in this beautiful island will lead to modern malls, exploring the flea markets for hours, or visiting seaside souvenir stalls to buy some pretty gifts for your dear friends and family. Irrespective of how many attractions you plan to see in and around Aruba, you will definitely get bowled over by the many intriguing things to purchase. Also, the Dutch heritage of this island and its proximity to South America leads to a wide array of offerings that are ideal for all kinds of budgets. Here are our suggestions for what to buy in Aruba on your upcoming vacation.
1. Aruba One Happy Island license plate
The moment you arrive on this island, you will find license plates that are displayed in every store and souvenir stand. The reason for this is because Aruba happens to be one of those rare places on the globe that requires vehicle owners to change the license plates of their vehicles every year. The newly issued plate each year features a new color scheme and a distinct design, making the previous year’s plates easily available for collection. The added charm to these plates is the catchy slogan - “One Happy Island” that will make you feel nostalgic about the time spent here when you go home. This is a popular souvenir or gift item to buy from Aruba.
2. Jewelry
Sales taxes in Aruba are quite low, which means you can save a little when buying costly jewelry. Also, the island boasts several high-end jewelers in locations such as Oranjestad. In case you are not fond of emeralds and diamonds, you can visit one of the jewelers on the island that maks unique pieces of jewelry that are available in different price ranges. The handmade ornaments made locally are easy to locate in gift shops and market stalls. You can even purchase some beautiful coin jewelry for your loved ones.
3. Reusable bag
If you believe in going green and want to give away eco-friendly gifts to your dear ones back home, reusable bags make for great souvenirs. They can be packed easily and are a cheap yet useful gift that is quite famous on the island. The bags are washable and are manufactured from plastic bottles that have been recycled. Featuring colorful designs, you can find motifs and famous landmarks on these bags, including license plates and cave paintings. This is ideal to carry to the beach or for shopping. You can fold it easily and it helps minimize your carbon footprints.
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4. Gourmet chocolates
It is hard to find someone who does not love chocolate. So, if you are contemplating what to gift your friends or family, you can opt for gourmet Dutch chocolates from Aruba. These are a popular choice for souvenirs among travelers. However, these chocolates are so delicious and sinful that the entire lot may not even make it home. The Netherlands has a rich history of making chocolates, so you will come across exquisite gift boxes and delectable samples all over the island. Savor as much as you can and learn your favorite chocolate brand so you can purchase some as souvenirs.
5. Delft cheese
The island of Aruba is known for its rich Dutch influence. Delft cheese is another excellent gourmet offering on the island and is a kind of exotic Dutch cheese that has been specially made in the Netherlands, like stinky Limburger, Edam, and Gouda, with a trademark red wax coating. Travelers can either choose gift boxes or even purchase entire wheels of cheese while vacationing in Aruba and take them back home for their cheese-loving relatives and friends.
6. Aruba Aloe products
Did you know that the Carribean island is home to the most ancient aloe company in the world? Established in 1890, Aruba Aloe ensures that you get a wide array of suncare, hair care, and skincare products in Aruba. Made from aloe that grows on the island, these products have a healing effect on the skin. They are easily found in shops throughout Aruba. Aloe plants happen to be an integral part of the island’s heritage, and the products made from them can create magic for the sun-exposed skin. The aloe vera gels and lotions are very useful gifts for your loved ones back home.
7. Mopa Mopa art
Another excellent gift item to buy while in Aruba is a Mopa Mopa art piece that includes decorative items such as masks, trays, boxes, and ornaments. You will find them available for sale at some of the galleries on the island. They are not only pretty to look at but also has an intriguing background. These works of art have been crafted by artisans of a special tribe. The Mopa Mopa tree’s leaf buds are boiled to create colored resins that are then used to add exquisite patterns on wooden carvings. While these art pieces are a bit expensive, you can consider buying smaller figurines, a more luggage-friendly and reasonably priced option.
8. Dutch stroopwafels
If you have a sweet tooth, satisfy your cravings by purchasing a few packages of stroopwafels while vacationing in Aruba. It is another famous Dutch specialty and is a crispy and thin waffle that is layered with a filling of cinnamon or caramel. The Dutch stroopwafels are a perfect combo to go with your coffee or tea. They can be broken down into small fragments and enjoyed with ice cream, or you can just eat them as they are. This Dutch specialty is easily found in grocery shops and is an excellent choice if you are looking for a lightweight and cheap gift to take home.
9. T-Shirts
Designed for travelers of varied tastes, souvenir t-shirts are easily available in shops across the island, and also in high-end apparel stores. A great souvenir for your friends or family, you will have a tough time choosing from a wide array of quality shirts displaying the landscape, culture, or national bird of Aruba. Aruba Rocks is a quality brand that offers innovative designs, and they sell superior quality shirts, tumblers, and caps, among others.
10. Delftware
In case it is unfamiliar, Delftware is a well-known blue and white pottery made in the Netherlands. Thanks to the Dutch influence on the island, you can easily find them in stores all over Aruba, like Little Holland located inside Royal Plaza Mall. However, Delftware is hand-painted and uses a signature tin glaze, making it extremely pricey and collectible. If you wish to surprise one of your family members with an exquisite souvenir from Aruba, go for this one.
Enjoy shopping in Aruba
Irrespective of whether you are looking for an ideal souvenir while vacationing on Aruba, or you simply wish to get a taste of this beautiful island even after returning home, check out our recommendations so that you can make up your mind about what to buy in Aruba for yourself and your dear ones.