Top Ten Things To Bring Back Home From Your Trip To The Bahamas

If you are planning to take a trip to the Bahamas, bring back some of the bounty of locally-made products, only found on the islands. Vendors are often eager to negotiate prices, as long as you are paying in cash. Be sure to bring small bills and try to haggle a bit to get the most for your money when shopping in this tropical locale.

Ten things you definitely want to bring home from your trip to the Bahamas are:

1. Pure vanilla extract. This area is known for its pure vanilla extract, made locally with rum.
2. Organic bamboo linens and apparel. Look for local bamboo linens, towels, and even clothing! This is an eco-friendly fabric that is as soft as brushed-cotton.
3. Rum. Don't forget to take home a bottle of local rum when visiting the islands. If you are traveling from the US, you can bring one liter home without paying a tax at customs; Canadian visitors are permitted to bring two before paying a tariff.
4. Gems. There are many gem mines in the Bahamas that feature diamonds and some distinctive Bahamian stones. Don't be afraid to haggle with vendors over the price.
5. Knock-off handbags. Can't afford a Dior? No worries- you can find any number of designer knock-offs in the Bahamas, from Chanel to Coach.
6. Hand-dyed sarongs. Many vendors offer hand-dyed fabrics and textiles, including gorgeous silk or cotton sarongs. These are the perfect souvenir to bring back home to loved ones!
7. Local jams and jellies. Remember your time on the islands when you get home with delicious guava jam and pineapple jelly. This is the perfect way to start your day after vacation has ended.
8. Hot sauces. Many locals offer homemade and bottled hot sauces, and some of them incorporate local produce and fruits to give their product a distinct and delicious flavor that you can't find in the States.
9. Handcrafted wood souvenirs. Watch the local woodworkers as you walk around the Bahamas. Many have walking sticks, statues, and trinket boxes for sale.
10. Rum cake. There are several rum distilleries in the Bahamas which offer their own rum cakes for visitors to purchase. Pick one up to enjoy in your room, on the boat, or to take home for loved ones left behind!

Remember your time in the Bahamas with some of these ten souvenir suggestions. Look for locally-made, handcrafted products whenever possible, and don't forget to make a note of your purchases on your travel documentation when returning through customs. Contact a company like Charter Bonaparte to learn more.