sperkins921

Hello all, was wondering, for those that don't want to just bring back t-shirts and mass produced souvenirs or gifts.....where did you shop and what did you bring back?

I know many who go to the Carribean/Bahamas want to bring back Rum, but I'd also like to bring back something above and beyond that if possible.

Any ideas are greatly appreciated!

Callaloo

It's not easy to find something "local" from the Bahamas, because not a whole lot is produced there. But it can be done! I've sought out Androsia batiks -- they are handmade on the island of Andros, and include everything from apparel to table linens. A set of napkins make a great hostess gift, for example.

mymoosie

I usually buy art prints by local artists. We stumbled onto a store in Nassau where everything is made in the Bahamas. I bought some prints by John Paul, some ceramic bowls by Jessica's Tileworks, seaglass jewelry. Also good to take home are locally made jam. I bought a dilly jam and was surprised how good it was. Grocery stores are a good place to find local edible products.

joan

I agree - grocery stores for local jellies and hot sauces, androsia batik (sold on a few islands not just andros), there are Bahamian baskets (you really have to look) that are woven so tightly they can be used to hold liquid (we found ours at a gift shop on Eleuthera).

Which island are you going to?

sperkins921

I will be going to Nassau and Freeport. 3 days in Nassau and 1 day in Freeport.

Forgive me, I'm studying and haven't slept much in the past few days so I don't know the island names (heck, i'm so tired I don't think I know *my* name at this point lol) right off the top of my head. But basically, the 'main tourist' islands that everyone seems to go to. I wouldn't mind going to one of the more off the beaten path islands- but it's a family vacation and it wasn't really up to me

But the baskets, art, jellies, batiks- those are exactly the things I'm looking to bring home. I keep reading in the Fodor's and Frommer's guides that the actual bahamian baskets are wonderful- but you have to look hard. something about many are made in china?

How do the local foods go through customs? Or rather, what is the US custom rule for edible food? I keep hearing/reading what seems like misleading info on the subject.

Surge

We bought gorgeous black coral necklaces on our way out of the airport. They were underpriced as we were told they could not sell anything over $100. My wife's lucky day.

ishkribbl

Not so sure about Nassau and Freeport- in places like Long Island and Exuma you know the baskets are not made in China because you can actually see the women make them in their tiny little shops- I have some very beautiful ones. I agree about the local art - watercolors and prints- it is such a wonderful reminder of your trip if you can find something special.