Shopping is another activity that is almost always present during any vacation. It may be hunting for the perfect memento that will remind you of one of the best times in your life. It may be a leisurely walk along the shopping district just to see if there is anything worth buying. Whatever your purpose may be, Bermuda has a lot to offer in terms of shopping. However, if you are looking for bargain prices and discount shopping, then you will be very disappointed.
Shopping in Bermuda is more about quality and not really about discounts and bargains. You will find a lot of good things to buy here, but at a price. Still, many of their imported goods are quite cheaper than if bought in the US, due to lower tariffs. Here are some of the things that you should look for when you go shopping in Bermuda.
Clothes
Clothing traditionally associated with the UK and Ireland abounds in Bermuda, due to their “colony-like†status with Great Britain. Shetland and cashmere sweaters, Harris tweed jackets, Scottish woolen goods and tartan kilts are generally at a lower price than in the UK and Ireland. The best shops are found in Front Street in Hamilton.
China, Silverware, Porcelain, etc.
These do not come cheap but when compared to the US, they are great buys! What many visitors do is stock up on table ware, silverware, crystal, and even jewelry. You can arrange them to be shipped to you for an additional fee.
Liquor
It is said that buying liquor is the best thing that you can do in Bermuda, if only because it offers the largest savings. Of course, you would have to remember that you can only bring in 1 Liter of liquor duty free. However, liquor is so much cheaper in Bermuda than in the US that even if you add taxes, it will still be well worth your while.
Antiques
Perhaps one of the best things that you can take back home with you. Of course, antiques do not come cheaply. Bermuda also abounds with all sorts of collectibles that do not really have a practical use but is a joy to own. You can get your hands on anything from furniture to engravings and nautical trinkets.
Tobacco
Cigar lovers will find Bermuda the perfect place to smoke that Cuban cigar without any censure. Illegal in the US, you can buy as many of these cigars as you want to in Bermuda but you have to smoke them there as well. If you want to bring something home with you, the cigar shops have other tobacco-related products and trinkets that you can purchase as well.
Bermudiana
This is the term used to refer to products produced in Bermuda or products made specially for local stores. Bermudiana covers almost any product – from watches to engravings to jewelry. Other decorative things made of wood, ceramic, or pewter are quite popular souvenirs. Of course, you can’t leave without getting at least a pair of Bermuda shorts!