Shopping

Like most places in the Caribbean, shopping can be a fun, rewarding experience in Jamaica. Products such as leather, jewelry, perfumes, silver, crystal electronic equipment are duty free. Cigarettes and alcohol are also duty-free but if you wish to carry them out of the country then you can only purchase them at the airport duty-free stores.

Foremost among the local products is the island pottery. It is an excellent collection of fine, hand-painted articles in bright and rich colors. The beauty of the island generally inspires the designs carved or painted on the article. Collectively it is referred to as Wassi art. T-shirts, caps and bags from Jamaica by and large bear marijuana and reggae motifs and are also a great fashion buy.

Another special from the country is Blue Mountain coffee, a single origin, high flavor produce. It can be bought in both powder and bean form. Another perishable that can be bought in Jamaica is the traditional Jerk spice-mix in easy-to-use processed form.

The main shopping centers are located in Montego Bay and Ocho Rios. The following are some shopping hot spots for Jamaica:

Wassi Art Pottery Works

Location: East side,

Ocho Rios

Tel: 876 974-5044

Timing: 9 am to 5 pm (Monday to Saturday)

Tile, sculptures, art, vases, pots and candles holders made in the typical, original Wassi style. They provide overseas shipping and also special packaging for on-flight carrying.

The Ocean Village Shopping Centre

Location: Ocho Rios

Timing: 8am to 6 pm (Mon- Sat)

This place has well over a hundred shops selling a variety of arts and crafts.

Things Jamaican

Location: Montego Bay

This place, sells all things Jamaican. Go here for pepper sauces, rum, clothing, artwork and wood carvings.

Gallery of West Indian Art

Location: Montego Bay

This is an art gallery that showcases and sells painting and sculptures done by the local artists.