Your guide to shopping in Barbados

In addition to cricket and water sports, shopping is another pursuit that Barbadians love.

It’s no wonder, with an irresistible selection of high streets, vibrant markets, stylish department stores and unique souvenir shops on the island.

During your stay, you might head to Holetown and treat the family to a few gifts, just to rub it in exactly how much fun your vacation was.

Perhaps you want to treat yourself to a new outfit for an evening meal down at Mullins Beach Bar or a star-studded event in Bridgetown. Whatever you’re looking for, shopping in Barbados can be a fabulous morning or afternoon out.

From duty free to the island’s new modern shopping centre, take a look at our quick guide to everything you need to know about how the Bajan people approach retail therapy:

Make the most of duty free
Duty free is popular with visitors, and it’s no surprise, with savings of 50% in comparison to North American and European prices.

Looking across the island, there are a number of stores that offer duty free shopping, such as all Diamond International (handily located at Royal Westmoreland), all Cave Shepherd stores, the Royal Shop and the Limegrove Lifestyle Centre.

But if you’re after designer goods such as watches and jewellery, make sure you head to Broad Street, Bridgetown.

Don’t forget to take your passport or travel documents (flight / cruise, otherwise you’ll have to pay tax on your purchase.

Holetown
Holetown’s Chattel Village is home to a selection of stores that are nestled within thriving tropical gardens.

Amongst the flowers, shrubs and bushes, you’ll find gift shops, clothes stores that sell everything from beachwear to casual clothing, and numerous cafes for when you need to take a break.

The best thing is that it’s only a five-minute-drive from Royal Westmoreland.

Info: Chattel houses are small moveable wooden homes that are traditional in Barbados

Cheapside Market
You’ll find every fresh fruit and vegetable you could imagine at the bustling Cheapside Market, a thriving hubbub of local people that’s perfect for getting to know the local vendors.

Head down to Cheapside on Saturday morning, and mix with the pleasant people whose magnetic charm and welcoming nature is perfect for experiencing Bajan culture first hand.

Info: Cheapside is a common street name in the English language, meaning “marketplace”. Originally there was no connotation with the word cheap, although in the 18th century this began to be inferred.

There are Cheapsides in cities across the globe, including London, Manchester and Nottingham in England, Lexington, Kentucky in the USA, and London, Ontario in Canada.

Gift Shops
If you’re looking for family presents, there’s no better place than the Best of Barbados Gift Shop. First opened in 1975 by artist Jill Walker and her husband, it sells a wide variety of souvenirs and locally made items, ideal for picking up some holiday memories.

You’ll be spoilt for choice, especially with all the local Caribbean arts and crafts, all made with the love and passion you can only find in the region.

Info: The Best of Barbados Gift Shops are located across the island, including the airport departure lounge, Chattel Village in Holetown (closest to Royal Westmoreland), the Quayside Centre and Southern Palms Hole in St. Lawrence Gap.

Limegrove Lifestyle Centre
Located in the heart of Holetown, there’s a lot on offer at Limegrove Lifestyle Centre, including stores from famous brands such as Dior, Cartier, Gucci and Louis Vuitton. All offering great-value, duty free prices for overseas visitors.

Take a look at the stores at Limegrove. We also have a Royal Westmoreland outlet that’s open between 10am – 7pm, Monday to Friday, 10am – 7pm on Saturdays, and 10am – 5pm on Sundays between December and March.

Info: Limegrove Cinema shows all the latest blockbuster movies. Check out the latest show times.

Shopping in Barbados
There are plenty of options if you’re looking to shop until you drop while in Barbados. We’ve provided just a few ideas but if you want more insight, speak to your Royal Westmoreland concierge.

Alternatively, ask us more on Twitter or keep an eye on our blog which is updated regularly with handy island guides.