Shopper's Guide: Antigua And Barbuda's Best Buys

Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island paradise in the Caribbean, boasting turquoise lagoons, tropical rainforests, and white sandy beaches. With its stunning natural beauty and exclusive lifestyle, it's no surprise that this destination is a favourite among travellers. When visiting this island nation, there are plenty of unique souvenirs and gifts to bring back home. Here's an introduction to the top things to buy in Antigua and Barbuda.

Jade jewellery and art pieces

Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island paradise in the Caribbean, known for its turquoise lagoon, tropical rainforest, and friendly people. The islands offer a range of unique souvenirs and shopping experiences for visitors.

Lavender-coloured jade stone is believed to have healing properties and is linked with a popular legend that this stone is carried by angels. Antigua has mines of this colourful jade, making it an excellent opportunity to buy jade jewellery at a reasonable price. You can find jade in the form of beaded necklaces, earrings, and pendants.

If you're looking for something more extravagant, consider investing in a jade sculpture. These sculptures are truly unique and make for a stunning souvenir or gift. The stone's mesmerising colour, ranging from pale blue to deep oceanic tones, is due to the presence of trace minerals during its formation, making each piece one-of-a-kind.

Jade is considered a symbol of love and virtue and is believed to offer healing properties for various health issues. Its rich cultural and historical significance dates back thousands of years to the time of the Olmec civilisation, the earliest known civilisation in the Americas.

When it comes to jade shopping in Antigua, head to St. John's, the capital city, and explore shopping areas like Woods Mall, Heritage Market, Redcliff Quay, and The Heritage Quay Shopping Centre.

In addition to jade, you can also find a variety of other jewellery options in Antigua, including designer collections and an assortment of coloured gems, diamonds, and pearls at luxury retailers like Abbott's Jewellery & Perfumery.

Wood-carved masks

Antigua and Barbuda is a twin-island paradise in the Caribbean, known for its turquoise lagoons, tropical rainforests, and friendly people. The islands offer a range of souvenirs and handicrafts that showcase the local culture and traditions. One such popular souvenir is the wood-carved masks.

The masks are meticulously handcrafted by local artisans, who put their skills and creativity into carving intricate details and intricate patterns. The masks feature a range of expressions, from joyful and mischievous grins to more sombre and contemplative visages. The designs often depict animals, mythical creatures, and important figures from folklore and history.

When purchasing a wood-carved mask in Antigua and Barbuda, it is essential to support local artisans and practice ethical shopping. The Chichicastenango Market is a great place to start your search for these handcrafted treasures. The market is known for its vibrant atmosphere and the wide variety of handicrafts on offer, including wood-carved masks in various styles and sizes.

Whether you plan to use your mask as a decorative piece in your home or as a prop for creative play, wood-carved masks from Antigua and Barbuda are sure to add a touch of cultural charm to your life. So, if you're looking for a unique and meaningful souvenir that captures the spirit of the Caribbean, be sure to consider the wood-carved masks of Antigua and Barbuda.

Linen clothing and bedding

Linen is a popular fabric choice in Antigua and Barbuda, thanks to its lightweight and breathable qualities—perfect for the warm Caribbean climate. The fabric also holds cultural significance, with a long history dating back to ancient Egypt. So, when in Antigua and Barbuda, linen clothing and bedding are must-buy items.

Antiguan linens are known for their bright and bold colours, reflecting the festive and vibrant spirit of the islands. The Linen Shop Antigua is a great place to start your linen shopping spree. Here, you'll find a wide range of colourful textiles, from bedding to table linens, all showcasing the beauty of Antiguan linen.

If you're looking for linen clothing, Cattleya Clothing Boutique in Heritage Quay, St. John's, is the place to go. They offer a selection of soft and beautiful linens for every occasion, empowering women to feel and look amazing. Their collection includes both casual resort wear and chic, designer pieces, so you can stay stylish and comfortable during your time in paradise.

Linen is also a popular choice for headwear in Antigua and Barbuda. The traditional "head ties" or "head kerchiefs" are often made from Madras fabric, a colourful plaid material that is a staple in Antiguan culture. These head wraps are elegantly styled and can be worn as part of everyday outfits or more formal attire. So, whether you're strolling along the beach or attending a special event, a linen head wrap will keep you stylish and cool.

When it comes to men's fashion, the Wadadli shirt is a signature piece of traditional men's clothing. This loose-fitting, casual shirt is crafted from lightweight fabrics, making it ideal for the Caribbean weather. With its vibrant colours and floral patterns, the Wadadli shirt embodies the relaxed elegance of the islands.

So, whether you're looking for comfortable clothing, stylish accessories, or luxurious bedding, linen is the perfect choice in Antigua and Barbuda. Embrace the local culture and the tropical climate with this versatile and historic fabric.

Pottery and ceramics

Antigua is an excellent place to purchase pottery and ceramics. The island is known for its generous use of colour, with a sparkling paint saturation on every pot. From tea sets to clay-made relics, there is a wide range of options to choose from.

One notable pottery studio is Sarah Fuller's Pottery, located in St. John's. Sarah Fuller's Pottery offers a variety of colourful island pieces, including small pottery bowls, dishes, wall sconces, and lamp bases. Each piece is unique, and the studio is highly regarded for its handcrafted original souvenirs.

Another notable studio is Cedars Pottery, where Imogen Margrie and Michael Hunt produce original pieces in urban ware and porcelain clay. Their eclectic portfolio includes ceramic wall pieces, relief carvings, highly individual fountains, and imaginative ceramic sculptures. Their work is admired for its craft skill, sense of design, and attention to detail.

For those interested in purchasing local art, Antigua has a community of artists, potters, and craftspeople inspired by the natural wonders and purity of light and colour on the island. The use of local clay and glazes inspired by the turquoise Caribbean Sea makes the pottery and ceramics from Antigua truly unique.

Mayan handbags

Mayan Hands offers a range of handmade, fair-trade handbags, totes, and zip pouches. The collection features fabric handwoven by Maya women in Guatemala, with prices ranging from $12 to $225. The Matea Tote Bag, for example, is available in Blue Stripe, Jaspe, or with a Randa accent for $68. For smaller accessories, they offer zip pouches in various colours and patterns, such as the Zipper Pouch in Indigo Jaspe for $26.

Another option is MayaBags, which offers uniquely fashionable purses and home decor items. MayaBags works in partnership with indigenous female artisans from Belize, ensuring they are fairly compensated. Their collection is inspired by nature and crafted with the artisanal skills and spirit of the Maya.

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