Mensing’s Caminada has been a Curaçao institution since 1971, and it bills itself as the largest bookstore on the island. You’ll find books for adults, teens, and kids in English, Dutch, Spanish, and Papiamentu, with new releases arriving every week from the Netherlands and the USA. There’s also a dedicated section of books about Curaçao and by local authors, which makes for a great souvenir.
It’s much more than books, though. Mensing’s is a true one-stop shop with magazines, school and office supplies, toys, greeting cards, and gifts all under one roof. They also sell event tickets, stamps, and prepaid cards, and if a title isn’t on the shelf, they can order it for you.
When you need a break, Chit Chat Café inside the store serves coffee, sandwiches, and local snacks like pastechi and empaná, with seating indoors and on the covered terrace. There’s even an enclosed play area for little ones, which makes it an easy stop for families. You’ll find it on Schottegatweg in Rooi Catootje, just north of Zuikertuin Mall, with free parking out front.
Details We Appreciate
● Largest bookstore on the island, open since 1971
● Books in English, Dutch, Spanish, and Papiamentu
● Special section of books about Curaçao and by local authors
● Toys, gifts, and school and office supplies under one roof
● Chit Chat Café and a kids’ play area on site
● Free parking and a wheelchair accessible entrance