Antigua and Barbuda Shopping Guide

Antigua - Tourist Shopping Information 

Visitors planning to spend a day shopping while holidaying in Antigua or just dropping by as part of a cruise find that there is more than enough in the shops and boutiques of Antigua to satisfy everyone. Capital city St. John's, the English Harbour and Jolly Harbour together form a shopper's paradise. These are the three areas where you are sure to find that perfect Caribbean treasure to take back home with you. From hand-made Antiguan gifts to Caribbean clothes, and everything else in between, you will find it all here.

St. John's is a city where many cultures meet and you can easily spot this in the wide variety of architectural styles visible in the shopping areas. There are the new complexes with their modern styles and then there are the renovated 19^th century buildings, beautiful in their bright colours.

English Harbour is the main village in South Antigua. The best shopping can be done in the delightful stores in and around the Dockyard or the Falmouth Harbour Marina. Gifts, clothing, food - all these and more are available in this picturesque and historic setting. And if you should run out of local money, the bank is located conveniently for changing your traveller's cheques. Use the post office here to stay in touch with friends and family back home.

Jolly Harbour has a marina with rows of shops selling everything needed for daily living. With a bank, supermarket and many clothing stores, the place is quite self-sufficient. The residents of the Villas in the area and the hotels do a lot of their shopping here. There is almost no need to go to the city. Don't be surprised to find great works of art too while you shop for your provisions!

Note - It is important to remember that the duty free shopping allowance permits you to buy 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco, 170ml (6ozs) perfume, 1 litre wine or spirits. Drugs without prescription and weapons of war are strictly prohibited.

What to buy in Antigua and Barbuda

Art - You will find great works by local talent in the galleries and shops all over the island.

Books - Get to know the islands better from the numerous books available and also read books written by authors living in the islands.

Clothing - Buy the local handcrafted Antigua Batiks that are like a piece of paradise on fabric. There are plenty of fashionable and trendy clothes to choose from as well.

Films and Music - Enjoy music by local artists, buy or rent local and international films on DVD. The shops usually deliver to hotels, villas and yachts.

Food, Drink and Provisions - You'll never run out of anything here; buy fresh fruits, wines or anything else you need.

Gifts and Souvenirs - You could buy the not very expensive local recipes or expensive works of art - there is something for everyone here.

Sports Equipment - Goggles or fishing rods or even gym equipment, anything you need to stay fit and have fun is available here.