4 Best Shopping in Curaçao

You'll see the striking, colorful Chichi characters all around the island, as everything from key chains and other iconic Curaçao souvenirs to larger-than-life sculptures. "Chichi" means "big sister" in the local lingo, and the figures are meant to exude the warmth of matronly Caribbean women. The line was created by the artist Serena Janet Israel, who has trained many local female artists to paint them. If you're looking for one-stop shopping and don't want to travel to Serena’s Art Factory—where the brand originates—head to this store tucked away on an alley near Gomezplein. The outlet is open late during Punda Thursday Vibes. 

Curaçao's oldest established gallery, located in Landhuis Habaai, hosts rotating exhibits of works by top local artists. Browse for shimmering landscapes, dazzling photographs, ceramics, or even African-inspired carnival masks. A separate gift shop sells artsy souvenirs.

You might have noticed brightly painted sculptures of colorful Caribbean women in many public places around the island, not to mention miniature versions of them for sale as souvenirs. These are Chichis®—created by the artist Serena Janet Israel and unique to Curaçao. Chichi means "big sister" in the local lingo, and the figures are meant to exude the warmth of matronly Caribbean women; new characters, including a man and a child, have also been created. Serena has trained many local female artists to paint them, and you're also welcome to paint your own for a one-of-a-kind souvenir at Serena’s Art Factory near the Ostrich Farm. Walk-in workshops are offered twice weekly and private workshops are available on demand. A stand-alone shop in Willemstad's Punda district also sells Chichi items and offers occasional workshops. There's a $12 participation fee for walk-in workshops (Tuesday and Saturday 9 am-noon) plus the cost of materials.