Shopping in Dominica

The great thing about shopping in Dominica is that it is a duty free shopping port.  Still, shopping is not as prominent here as it is on other Caribbean islands, so you may have to be on the look out for shops touting good deals.

The Goods

Dominica is well known for its variety of handmade products that make great souvenirs.  Many of the crafts are available in shops throughout the country, but you may also enjoy the cultural experience of purchasing them in Carib Indian Territory.  These items include  baskets made from dyed larouma reeds and  balizier leaves, hand painted t-shirts, natural soaps, pottery, screw-pine tableware, Vertivert straw rugs, and wood carvings.

You can also bring some locally produced grocery products home with you.  Local herbs, coffee, jams, jellies, sauces, and rum are popular souvenirs. 

Duty free shops in Dominica carry a wide array of luxury goods that can also be purchased a rates lower than what you are probably used to back home.  At these place you will find china, cigars, cigarettes, clothing, jewelry, perfumes, and more.

Where to Shop

Roseau is the spot for shopping Dominica, mostly because cruise passengers can step right off their ship and head into the surrounding shops.  In Roseau you can shop in a location shrouded in history.  Once a slave trade post, today the Old Market Plaza houses three craft shops.  These shops offer Carib crafts, coconut goods, and straw crafts as well.  Every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday mornings you  also find a vegetable market, where local farmers set up booths to sell their produce.

Craft sales are an important part of the local economy, and you can find numerous shops that sell hand made products throughout Roseau.  Some other notable craft shops include  Crazy Banana, Dominica Pottery, Ego Boutique, and Tropicrafts Island Mats.

Otherwise, there are no huge shopping complexes on the island, you will have to keep your eyes peeled for smaller shops as you explore.

Duties, Taxes, and Tips

The official currency of Dominica is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar, but shopkeepers readily accept currency from around the world, including the U.S. Dollar, and the Euro.  Major credit cards and traveler's checks are often accepted as well. 

You can expect shops in Dominica to be open between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.,  Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.  Don't plan on getting any shopping done on Sunday, because most shops will be closed for the day.

Whether you're stocking up on discounted luxury goods or looking for a handmade souvenir to bring home and commemorate your vacation, a day of shopping in Dominica is a day well spent.