Shopping is a favourite tourist activity in The Bahamas. While bargain hunting for big ticket items is the number one draw, the Bahamian shopping experience is diverse and colourful and extends far beyond Bay Street.

Luxury items – including china, crystal, fine jewellery, watches, leather bags, linens and tablecloths, wine and liquor, perfume, cologne and toilet water, cameras and accessories, and cashmere – are duty free. This translates into savings of 40% and more on North American or UK prices for the same choice brands. The absence of any sales tax ensures that you pay no more than what the price-tag reads.

The best selection of luxury goods is found in Nassau (Bay Street), Paradise Island, Grand Bahama (the International Bazaar and Port Lucaya Marketplace), and Abaco.

Wandering through the International Bazaar in Grand Bahama is an experience in itself. Practically a town within a town, this huge shopping mall’s architecture reflects the global collection of goods on offer including English, Scandinavian, Chinese, Japanese, Turkish, Indian, French and Spanish.

Throughout the islands, keep an eye out for clothing, accessories and toys made of Androsian fabric. These beautiful batiks are manufactured in Andros and are sold throughout the Caribbean region.

Whether you’re shopping with children, or for them, there are a few spots you won’t want to miss. The Pirates of Nassau Museum offers items that are sure to bring out the swashbuckler in your little ones including eye-patches and swords.

Business hours throughout the islands vary. Most stores and malls are open Monday through Saturday with many malls offering evening shopping. At present, most stores are closed on Sundays, although an increasing number are opening their doors for a full day of business.

The Straw Market
First established in 1901, straw markets have become a Bahamian institution – a place where native craft is king and bartering is de rigueur. The straw markets sell Bahamian straw work – including baskets, hats, mats and dolls – t-shirts, native jewellery and wood carvings, and are found on most of the islands.

The largest, on Bay Street in Nassau, burned down for the second time in its history in September 2001. But we are happy to report that it is business as usual in the Straw Market’s temporary location – steps away from their old spot on Bay Street – until a new, permanent home is ready.