Duty Free Shopping

I was up early this morning for a good workout in the gym before coming to work. Since I went to the gym this morning I didn’t want to run when we got to Grand Bahama. I decided to take a taxi to Port Lucaya, about 12 miles from the Lucayan Harbour, to do a little window-shopping.

Effective January 1, 1992, the Government of the Commonwealth of The Bahamas abolished all import duties on certain items. Perfumes, Crystal, Leather Goods, Jewelry, Fine Linens, Watches, Photographic Equipment and China, are now all duty free. Savings on these items are between 25% - 50% below US prices.

Port Lucaya Marketplace features numerous shopping and dining opportunities in a charming waterfront setting. Boat lovers love the luxurious yachts docked at the marina, an official port of entry. Port Lucaya is also home to Count Basie Square, which often features dancing and live entertainment by local bands in the evenings.

The Straw Market is also quite an experience. Mrs. George Phenney, wife of the then Governor of the islands, started the straw work industry in The Islands of The Bahamas in the 1720s. Straw markets began to spring up around Freeport with the development of Tourism in the mid 1960s, and the vendors have become a major contributor to the industry. Goods ranging from straw work, T-shirts, woodcarvings, jewelry and other arts and craft are sold.

I stopped by one of Discovery’s recommended stores Colombian Emeralds International. They have a wide selection of Gold, Silver and Gemstone jewelry as well as brand name watches. Watches are my weakness so that was the counter I headed for. Colombian Emeralds International offers a FREE 90 day insurance policy against loss damage and theft, as well as a certified appraisal with all jewelry purchases.
After spending about 45 minutes drooling over watches that I really can’t afford after a 2-month vacation I headed back to the ship with nothing more than a Subway Sandwich.