Throughout Jamaica’s resort areas, you’ll find many duty-free shops devoted to selling perfumes, jewelry, watches and leathers. Jamaica isn’t a shopping destination like St. Thomas or Sint Maarten but you will find a good selection of shops especially in Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.

But don’t forget Jamaica’s home-grown gifts during your shopping tour of the island. Here’s a list of things we never forget to pick up when on the island:

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).

Hot Sauces and Condiments. Jerk sauce and jerk spices are top picks but you'll also find Solomon Gundy dip (great on crackers), festival mix, and more. We especially like Walkerswood products.

Artwork. Jamaican crafts are some of the best in the Caribbean. Look for wood carvings; lignum vitae creations are the priciest and the most beautiful. Bargaining is expected with crafts vendors.

Liquors. Jamaica makes several excellent rums. 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. Prices at the airport are just as good as those you'll find in town.