"Tobago Cays" by Christian Lendl via Flickr Creative Commons

Contrary to popular belief that all Caribbean countries are expensive, St Vincent and the Grenadines offers good prices on many products. Although since they are islands, many products are imported, which can bring somewhat increased prices. The best things to buy are locally made products, such as locally made straw crafts. Many smaller retailers will offer a discount if you approach them for a bargain.

For the best shopping you should head to Kingstown in St Vincent. The city has a small business district containing a number of retail stores. Here you will be able to find a great range of products, such as crafts, clothes, and local produce. If you are seeking crafts such as grass floor mats, fabrics, and handmade West Indian dolls, you can go to the St Vincent Craftsmen’s Centre on Frenches Street. If you head 30 minutes north of the city you will get to the Wallabou Craft Centre on the Leeward Highway, which is a cooperative store selling baskets, handbags, hats, and toys.

If you are on the island of Bequia, a great place to go for gifts and souvenirs is Noah’s Arkade in Port Elizabeth. It sells handicrafts and contemporary art, as well as a range of other souvenirs. Another great store in Port Elizabeth is Local Color, which sells handmade jewelry, wood carvings, and clothing.

There are several duty-free stores in the capital, Kingstown. If you show a copy of your passport with your tourist stamp you will be able to purchase luxury goods such as alcohol and perfume at reduced prices. Halifax Street has a couple of duty-free stores called Carsly and Voyager. There is also another branch of Voyager on Bay Street.

Spas and Wellness

With 32 islands dotted around the Caribbean Sea, St Vincent and the Grenadines provides a tranquil and relaxing setting for spa resorts. There are several spas located around the islands, such as Bamboo Spa and Oasis Spa, which offer complete day spa packages. Dani’s Spa is a good option if you are staying on the island of Bequia, and Amrita Spa on Canouan is popular. Beachcombers Hotel and Spa is one of the most popular all inclusive spa resorts on St Vincent.

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