Work hard. play hard. shop harder

If you want to find the perfect souvenir to take home from Jamaica, continue reading.

Before you board your flight, we highly recommend that you hit the duty-free stores on the island.

You’re already taking a well-deserved vacation so it’s the perfect time to treat yourself to the watch or diamond earrings you’ve been eyeing forever for way less than you would ever pay at home.

What many people don’t know is that there are also fantastic Jamaican-themed necklaces, bracelets, and more for those looking for something truly unique.

You can find duty-free stores and souvenir shops islandwide, especially in the popular tourist towns of Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril.

So here are some quick tips to find the perfect Jamaican souvenir.

Get crafty

Vibrant craft markets can be found in major tourist hubs like Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Negril.

Wander from stall to stall exploring items from earrings to keepsake boxes, and buy yourself a ‘tam’ in Jamaican colors or a handcrafted straw basket, all while honing your haggling skills to get the perfect price.

If you don’t make it to a market, don’t worry! Keep an eye out while driving around the island as there are many independent craft vendors who set up shop along the roads.

Tour your hotel

Every hotel has at least one gift shop on the property that is bound to have a wide range of great souvenirs for you to find the perfect gift for everyone back home, and maybe even a special something for yourself.

Make a day of it

Don’t want to walk or drive yourself?

Check in with your hotel concierge; they can connect you with a tour company that will take you out for the day.

Imagine an entire day stopping at some of the best spots around for Jamaican souvenirs, art, crafts, and duty-free shopping.

Spot a souvenir

Pop into one of the specialty souvenir stores that can be found in shopping centers and most main roads in major towns and cities across Jamaica.

There’s also always a gift shop at the attraction you may choose to experience that offers unique keepsakes from t-shirts to funny signs, tiny bottles of delicious dark rum to fiery hot sauces the island is famous for.

by Deanne Allgrove