Ins & Outs of Barbados 2020

INS& 72  SHOPPING Since 1906... and still going strong Barbados’ historic department store, Cave Shepherd, has been a landmark in Bridgetown since 1906! It remains the ‘go to’ for premier international brands at very attractive duty free prices, a wonderful selection of local products and the remarkable Pages bookshop on the top floor. With several branches islandwide, it’s not surprising that after more than a century, Cave Shepherd was recently voted one of the top 50 department stores in the world by retail trends specialists, Insider Trends. So, when in Bridgetown, be sure to stop in and have a browse... from fragrance, liquor and confectionery to luggage, sunglasses and beachwear – Cave Shepherd is the ideal store for visitors of all generations. To Market, to Market Built in 1810 and brimming with authenticity, Cheapside Market doesn’t merely provide you with food, but with an experience of vitality. There, you’re connected with the source of bounty and the people who bring it to you. Every purchase is a transaction with a person, and each has a comment or a story, if you’ve got the time. A few stall holders have bunches of medicinal bush tea and can tell you how to use them. You can find just about everything here, from salt-fish to bay leaves and spices; sticks of bitter, barely refined chocolate; bottles of shark oil, essences and local honey, Bajan seasoning and pepper sauces. For refreshment, sample the fresh juices or mauby. Don’t see them? Ask. It’s a good excuse to start a conversation! Add Some Sparkle To Your Life Diamonds are trending globally, and Bridgetown has no shortage of diamond retailers! With no import duties or VAT charged, tax free shopping in Bridgetown is as much as a third more economical than prices in Europe, the U.K. and North America. At Diamonds International you can custom create your signature piece of jewellery; simply choose your diamond, select the setting, and their on-site jewellers will have your piece ready to wear before you leave the island! The Royal Shop is a family-owned watch and jewellery store – in fact, it’s the oldest on the island! It’s the exclusive retailer of Rolex and Tudor timepieces with an authorised Rolex Service Centre. You will also find the exquisite Modani diamond collection there. Also worthy of attention is Milano Diamond Gallery , their own Unity brand, focuses on ‘Big Look’ diamond jewellery and diamond tennis bracelets of all carat weights. Milano also represents LeVian all natural Chocolate Diamonds. In addition to fine jewellery and watches, Colombian Emeralds International now has a dedicated Pandora boutique and at Tropicana Jewellers on Swan Street, you’ll find a wide selection of traditional West Indian bangles in gold and silver to fit all ages. Full of Character (and characters) Running parallel to Broad Street, Swan Street is a pedestrian only street, lined with dozens of small, owner-run shops, odd specialty stores and roadside vendors all selling a vast selection of merchandise at bargain prices. A stroll through Swan Street offers a culturally rewarding experience. Best for Browsing!