Bahamas
Local craftsmen who have resisted mass-production to satisfy surging tourist demand produce some distinctive souvenirs. Coconut-shell artefacts and jewellery are said to be nearly indestructible. Conch shell, whelk shell or sharks' teeth may also be used. Printed fabrics, particularly batiks from Andros, are hand-waxed and dyed with colourful island designs. Straw goods take in everything from sunhats and carry-alls to straw aeroplanes complete with pilot or straw models of Nassau surreys. Wood-carvings are also popular.
Rum is a firm favourite, especially Eleuthera pineapple rum and the coconut variety.
Freeport/Lucaya's bonded area offers a range of tax-exempt European and Commonwealth goods at attractive prices: china, cutlery, fabrics, glass, leather, perfumes, silver, watches, cameras and spirits. Nassau is advertised as one of the best places to buy duty-free watches; also look for jewellery, crystal, china, leather and spirits here.
