Caribbean rum, pottery, jewelry, and fresh produce are some of the many great products to shop for while visiting Saint Lucia. Travelers may also enjoy some of the many outdoor activities the island has to offer, such as surfing, snorkeling, hiking, and perhaps a mud bath.
Here is the traveler’s guide to shopping in Saint Lucia:
What type of budget do you need to shop in Saint Lucia?
A $100 per day budget will be enough for travelers to enjoy many of Saint Lucia’s great shopping experiences without being too modest. However, a daily budget of $50 or less is certainly reasonable as well.
Be sure to take into account any potential customs or duty fees that may apply to your purchases, as these can add up quickly if you are not mindful of them.
What are some popular shopping souvenirs from Saint Lucia?
Some popular souvenirs from Saint Lucia include rum, spices, locally made jewelry, and even cigars. Of course, there are also plenty of other options available, so be sure to take your time browsing through all of the different shops before making your final decision.
Caribbean rum: Saint Lucia’s climate is ideal for growing sugar cane, which is one of the main ingredients in rum. Additionally, the island’s volcanic soil adds a unique flavor to the rum that you won’t find anywhere else. Finally, the distilling process used on the island results in a smooth and flavorful rum that is perfect for sipping on a hot day. Or consider a rum tasting to try them all!
Jewelry: Saint Lucian jewelry is famous for its unique designs and high quality. The island’s skilled artisans create beautiful pieces that are perfect for any occasion. Additionally, the island’s natural resources allow for a wide variety of materials to be used in the jewelry, resulting in unique and one-of-a-kind pieces.
Handmade pottery: The pottery of Saint Lucia is impressive for its variety of colors and designs. But importantly, the island’s potters use a variety of traditional techniques to create beautiful and unique pieces, such as a coalpot, which requires an immense amount of skill and manual labor to master.
Where are the best local markets in Saint Lucia?
If you’re looking for some souvenirs to take home with you from your trip to Saint Lucia, then be sure to check out some of the island’s best local markets. Here are a few of our favorites:
Castries Market: The Castries Market is one of the best places on the island to find souvenirs. Visitors can find a wide variety of items for sale, including handmade arts and crafts, fresh produce, and locally made food and drink.
Anse La Raye Market: The Anse La Raye Market is another great option for those looking for souvenirs. Visitors can find a wide variety of items for sale, including handmade arts and crafts, fresh produce, and locally made food and drink.
Soufriere Market: The Soufriere Market is one of the best places on the island to find souvenirs. Visitors can find a wide variety of items for sale, including handmade arts and crafts, fresh produce, and locally made food and drink.
No matter what you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it at one of these amazing markets. So, be sure to check them out during your next trip to Saint Lucia.
General budget tips for Saint Lucia
If you plan on doing any duty-free shopping, be aware of the limits on what you can bring back into your home country. These limits vary depending on where you are coming from, so be sure to research this ahead of time.
Prices for souvenirs and other items can vary greatly depending on the store and the item itself. If you are looking for a good deal, it is often best to shop around at different stores before making your purchase.
Some stores may offer discounts if you pay in cash, so it is always worth asking about this ahead of time.
Budget tips for Saint Lucian food and groceries
If you are staying in a resort or other type of accommodation that includes meals, be sure to take advantage of this as it can save you a lot of money.
For groceries and other food items, it is often best to shop at local markets rather than at more expensive supermarkets. This can help you to stretch your budget further.
When dining out, be aware that some restaurants may add a service charge to your bill. If this is the case, it is usually already included in the listed prices on the menu.
How to get around Saint Lucia without spending a lot of money
The best way to get around Saint Lucia on a budget is to use the local bus system. This is an affordable option that can get you around to most of the major attractions and sites on the island.
Additionally, many of the trails and paths on the island are free to use, so be sure to take advantage of this!
What activities and attractions are worth spending your money on
The Pitons: These iconic twin peaks are one of Saint Lucia’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can hike to the top of either peak for stunning views of the island and surrounding waters. There is a small fee to access the trails, but the experience is well worth it.
Marigot Bay: This picturesque bay is one of the most popular spots on the island for swimming, sunbathing, and simply taking in the stunning views. There is a small fee to access the beach, but it is well worth it for an enjoyable day in paradise.
Soufriere Volcano: The Soufriere Volcano is one of Saint Lucia’s most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can hike to the top of the volcano for incredible views of the surrounding area. There is a small fee to access the trails, but the experience is well worth it.
Rodney Bay: Rodney Bay is one of Saint Lucia’s most popular beaches. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling in the clear waters. There is a small fee to access the beach, but it is well worth it for an enjoyable day in paradise.
Saint Lucia Zoo: The Saint Lucia Zoo is a great option for those interested in seeing some of the island’s unique wildlife. The zoo has a wide variety of animals, including monkeys, reptiles, and birds. There is a small fee to enter the zoo, but it is well worth it for an up-close look at some of the island’s amazing wildlife.
East Winds Resort excursion: Of course, we are happy to help our guests arrange a variety of bespoke excursions such as a boat cruise out to Pigeon Island, windsurfing, golfing and more.
How to keep your money safe and secure when traveling in Saint Lucia
When traveling in Saint Lucia, it is important to take steps to keep your money safe and secure. Here are a few tips to help you do just that:
- Keep your cash and valuables hidden away in a safe place;
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you;
- Be aware of your surroundings and don’t flash your cash or valuables around in public;
- Use a reputable tour company or travel agency when booking tours or activities; and
- Pay for items with a credit card whenever possible.
Following these simple tips can help you to avoid becoming a victim of crime while traveling in Saint Lucia.
Are there any shopping malls in St Lucia?
There are a few shopping malls in St Lucia, though they are not as large or plentiful as in some other countries. The most popular mall is probably the JQS Shopping Centre, which is located in the capital city of Castries. This mall features a variety of stores, including both international and local brands, as well as a food court and other amenities. Other shopping malls in St Lucia include the Rodney Bay Mall and the Point Seraphine Duty Free Complex.
Can you negotiate with vendors in Saint Lucia?
It is usually possible to negotiate with vendors in Saint Lucia, though the extent to which you will be successful depends largely on the vendor themselves. In general, it is best to try to negotiate prices for items that are not fixed, such as souvenirs or handmade goods. If an item has a set price, it is less likely that the vendor will be willing to budge on this. However, it never hurts to ask!