The best fashion and gift stores Cape Verde

Timetable

Most stores are open Monday to Friday from 8am to 12:30pm and from 3pm to 7pm, and on Saturday from 9am to 1pm. This applies in particular to the major chains and stores in town and in shopping malls. In tourist hotspots, on islands such as Sal, close to resorts, store opening hours are much more flexible, and shops sometimes stay open all day non-stop, to cater for holidaymakers.

Budget & Tips

Shopping is usually easy, convenient and well-practiced. What's more, the vendors speak to visitors in several languages. However, it is important to take into consideration that there are a lot of small stores, stalls or street vendors, which can offer tempting merchandise, but which do not accept credit cards. It is therefore wise to carry small bills in local currency to be able to meet your purchasing needs. Otherwise, you should know that almost all stores accept the euro, but payment in foreign currency will have an extra charge of about 10% (stores as well as restaurants), as shopkeepers tend to round the exchange rate in their favor. (1 € to 100 CVE).

Another tip is to shop around to compare prices and compete, especially for handicrafts from mainland Africa. Depending on the vendor or store, you may be able to get a discount or even a small souvenir gift.

What's very local

Some markets are veritable souks, like those of Sucupira and Assomada in Santiago. In addition to the picturesque aspect of the place, it's also an opportunity to do some shopping. In recent years, the country has been invaded by handicrafts from neighboring countries such as Senegal, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau, as Cape Verdeans produce far less than they used to, when there was a real wealth of handicrafts. Nevertheless, there has been a noticeable awakening among craftspeople. Whether at the famous markets or in small stalls, you'll find basketry, pottery, hats, shells, ceramics, wood, carved coconuts or African musical instruments. The women also produce beautiful doilies and embroidered bedspreads, all made by hand over long hours. That's why, although negotiating prices is commonplace in the markets, and bearing in mind that the local population is relatively poor, you don't necessarily have to play along. Shop and haggle, but do as you please!