Belize, Costa Maya, Roatan, Grand Cayman Shopping Bargains?

[Woodrow3]

FINALLY. Our cruise leaves next Sunday! (Carnival Valor, 11/27).

We are going to Costa Maya, Belize, Roatan and Grand Cayman.

I was wondering if there are any shopping bargains on these islands.

I ask, because, many times on cruises they will say "This island is known for watches at great prices." Or, "This island is known for great tanzanite jewelry", etc.

But, not knowing this before I get on the ship I really don't know if the prices are good or not.

If these islands are known for having great shopping bargains, if you could share that with me ahead of time, I could research it and go prepared!

Thanks in Advance for your advice!

 

[PRTHED]

Woodrow3, As a past visitor of all three places may I give you some reccomendations...Costa Maya is mainly all shopping right off the cruise pier... Do yourself a favor and look before you buy here.. there are many different shops that sell the same stuff at different prices. Most of the shop owners want to bargain with you so put on your best salesman face and do your best!!! NEVER pay what they want you to pay!!! Next stop Belize... If you are doing a shore excursion here many of the tours will drop you off at a market across from the pier. This market is a trusted marketplace amongst the cruise lines however, the prices are sky high. For the same stuff, at a cheaper price, you may want to stick to the shops at the pier. Again, you have to put on a salesman face to deal with the shop owners. Roatan, I was not impressed at all with any of the stuff that they had to offer. You can get the same stuff at the other stops for cheaper. Now that I have stressed the fact that you must bargain with the shop owners, I will tell you that in Grand Cayman there is no bargaining at all.. The price is the price and thats it.. or at least thats what I have found. Grand Cayman is the most beautiful of all(in my opinion) and you will find the best quality merchandise here. Make sure you visit the shops all along the main street. Even if you are window shopping make sure you take a peek... If you make a right out of the cruise pier and walk down a little ways you will find a great gift shop. I don't remember the name of the shop but look for the big pirate outside... I hope this post can help you with your shopping experience and have a great trip!