Throughout Jamaica's resort areas, you'll find many duty-free shops devoted to the world's best perfumes, jewelry, watches, and leathers. But don't forget Jamaica's home-grown gifts during your shopping tour. Here's what to look for:

Liquors. Jamaica is home to several excellent rum distilleries. Appleton and Myers are the best known; Sangster's is another top name. Tia Maria liqueur, a coffee-flavored delight, is another popular purchase. And there's always Red Stripe beer if you're watching your pennies.

Coffee. Blue Mountain coffee is considered one of the finest in the world. Gift shops at the resorts and the airport sell it in small burlap gift bags for about US$1 per ounce (less than half the price found in American coffee shops).

Artwork. Jamaican crafts are some of the best in the Caribbean. Look for wood carvings; lignum vitae creations are the priciest but the most beautiful.

Duty-Free Shopping. The major resort areas are home to duty-free malls, places where hassling is prohibited and goods are pricey (but security is tight). Shop for fine jewelry in most of these malls.

What's the Price?

Bargaining is also part of the fun at the many craft markets throughout the island. Many travelers avoid the market because of fears of high-pressure sales, but we have found the market delightful. A friendly "good morning," abstaining from photos until a purchase (no matter how small) is made, and general good manners will go far with the salespeople. On a recent visit, one cheerful vendor gave us a small basket as a gift. After shopping, take a break with a soft drink or "sky juice" (like our snow cone) sold from pushcarts beneath the shade trees.

Fixed prices are found in the stores. Stop by a local grocery store for the best prices on liquor (rum, Red Stripe beer, and Tia Maria are especially good values), coffee, and tea. Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is considered one of the finest coffees in the world. Gift shops at the resorts and the airport sell the coffee in small burlap gift bags for about $1 US per ounce (less than half the price found in American coffee shops) but you can find the coffee even cheaper at local markets.