Are luxury goods cheaper in the Bahamas?

Most people equate the shopping scene in Nassau and sister island Paradise Island to the plethora of name-brand duty-free shops selling perfume, liquor, cigars, electronics and especially jewelry. It is true you can save around 40 percent on such luxury items, but not as much as in some other Caribbean destinations.



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Generally speaking the bahamas is about 1 and 1/2 times MORE expensive than the states, even more expensive the NY and LA. But items imported from Europe, such as designer clothers, jewelrly perfume etc are duty free. Especially liquor. Know your prices at home.

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Gucci is less expensive than the US because they mostly sell last seasons merchandise. I got a pait of shoes and a handbag there for $700, plus no tax (you do have to pay duty on over $800, I think. Makeup is no cheaper, but no tax, so you do save a little.

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Nassau, Nassau & Paradise Island Gucci: Nassau You can purchase Gucci watches, clocks, leather goods, accessories and shoes, designer wear, perfume, and bath products at the Gucci boutique.

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Duty-Free Shopping in the Bahamas Owing to the liberal duty-free policies of the Bahamian government, buying your must-have items in the duty-free shops means you can bring home an array of items that would be prohibitively expensive if you bought it on the sales floor of your average American store.

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On a stroll, you'll find an excellent array of luxury and designer boutiques, duty-free outlets, and shops selling authentically Bahamian souvenirs.

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High-end designer boutiques are among the 34 shops, including Carlo Milano, Leather Gallery, and Columbian Emeralds International. Bahamian arts and crafts are also available from various kiosks and art galleries.

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The world-renowned Bahamas gated community of Lyford Cay, is an exclusive luxurious residential community located on the Western tip of New Providence, Bahamas. Originally developed in the 1950's, Lyford Cay remains pristine, sophisticated, safe, and extremely private.

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Running through Downtown Nassau, the street is a lively mix of shops, restaurants, and tourist attractions. On a stroll, you'll find an excellent array of luxury and designer boutiques, duty-free outlets, and shops selling authentically Bahamian souvenirs.

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On your island trip, it's easy to save big money on expensive items – especially in the duty-free world of the Caribbean. With already-cheap prices and no sales tax, the islands are great places to find jewelry, watches, and gifts for your loved ones, or yourself. Expect to save 25 percent or more on your purchases.

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The best-known souvenirs of the Bahamas are the products made with dried palm leaves. They make baskets, sombreros, wallets, fans and many typical items of the country. Without a doubt, one of the things to buy in the Bahamas which is most representative of the Bahamian culture are these handicraft objects.

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The broad based consumption tax is applied to almost all goods and services that are imported, bought and sold for use in The Bahamas. Two rates of VAT are applied which is the standard rate of 10% and a zero rate of 0%. Goods exported to customers abroad are classified as exempt from VAT or zero rated.

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Who qualifies for a Bahamas VAT Refund? The VAT tax is meant to tax consumption of good within Bahamas, not goods exported to a foreign country. Therefore, Bahamas allows tourists and others who purchase goods within Bahamas for export to receive a refund of any VAT taxes paid.

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Anything except fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products can be brought into The Bahamas. All meats must be canned or frozen.

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Conch Shell Jewelry The conch is much more than a delicious menu item in The Bahamas. Its pretty pale pink shell is polished and crafted into jewelry that's sold in many souvenir shops. Bracelets, necklaces and earrings are available to suit all tastes and budgets.

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However, should you decide to visit some of the local attractions, tours or shopping, you will need money. You'll find that merchants on the island do accept most major credit cards, though we recommend some cash for smaller, local merchants and restaurants who may require cash. Taxis in The Bahamas will require cash.

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If you are traveling from the US, there is no need to change your money. US dollars are used as readily as Bahamian Dollars in the bahamas and are equal in value. If you are coming from another country, it's wise to change your money before you get to the bahamas.

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  • Avoid Nassau's “over the hill” (south of Shirley Street) and Fish Fry (Arawak Cay) areas, especially at night.
  • Stay alert to your surroundings at all times.
  • Don't walk alone, particularly after dark.
  • Don't carry large sums of cash or wear expensive jewellery.


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