The first European visitors to the Caribbean were in search of precious metals and spices to take back home.

Little has changed over the centuries: today the Caribbean remains one of the world's great shopping destinations.

As any Caribbean vacationer will tell you, the experience can be summed up in just two words: “Duty Free."

This shopping overview details what each island is known for, whether it's locally made crafts or European imports. For more detailed information, check the link for each island.

Aruba: Seaport Village in the heart of downtown Oranjestad is convenient to the cruise dock. It boasts 85 stores, boutiques and eateries. A discount averaging 30% is available on most watches and china. For more Aruba shopping info . . .

Barbados: Shopping duty-free in Barbados, where the savings often run 30% to 50% lower than in North America, may require that you have your passport and airline ticket or cruise ship ID card. And the items may have to be delivered to the airport or seaport for you. For more Barbados shopping info . . .

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