Barbados has been an entrepôt and trading center ever since the English arrived in 1627. Drawing on their many years of experience, Bajan retailers have successfully established this island as the Tax-Free Haven of the Eastern Caribbean and one of the best shopping and duty-free destinations in the entire region. With long-standing links with the world's major business houses, retailers in Barbados sell only the best, genuine, high quality products; and, best bets include fine jewelery, watches, crystal, fragrances, cameras and audio equipment, leather goods, local crafts and more.
From Harrison’s to Cave Shepherd, Bajan department stores present leading designer names; and, gemstone boutiques are world renowned for their abundance of quality jewelery. Talented island craftsmen have also emerged, releasing unparalleled creative collectibles and fine arts. Local crafts are available at craft fairs held throughout the year and there is also a weekly market on Wednesdays exhibiting the finest Bajan arts and crafts at Pelican Village that also showcases local culture, dancing and music.
Some hot spots for local retail therapy include...
Bridgetown: The most extensive shopping opportunities with shuttle service from most hotels on the island operating Monday to Saturday for US$3.00 per person. Book with your hotel activities desk or call Cave Shepherd at 227-2200.
Speightstown: A charming seaside village with a distinct architectural heritage, offering plenty of stores and casual restaurants serving hearty local foods.
Holetown: Offering a variety of restaurants, stores and the West Coast Mall.
Hastings and Worthing: Offering the Quayside Center, Big B Super Center supermarket and the Sheraton Center, which houses over 80 specialty stores, an elegant food court and a new cineplex with six movie theatres.
Chattel House Shopping Village: Based at an authentic Bajan chattel house village, this unique shopping complex features a range of fine crafts and colorful collectibles.
Fine hotel boutiques: Casuarina Beach Hotel, The Colony Club Hotel, Crystal Cove, Glitter Bay, Royal Pavilion, The Sandpiper, Sandy Lane Hotel, Southern Palms and Tamarind Cove.
