Shopping in George Town is a very casual event, especially at the Exuma Straw Market, open Monday through Saturday from 7am to 5pm. Here in the shade of an old ficus tree in the center of town, you can talk to the friendly Exumian women and perhaps purchase some of their handicrafts. They make straw baskets, colorful handbags, dolls, and other keepsakes. Bargaining is permissible, and prices go from $25 for a hat to $150 for an intricate basket.

Otherwise there's not too much shopping here, but there are a few places where you can purchase souvenirs and gifts. Exuma Liquor and Gifts, Queen's Highway (tel. 242/336-2101), is the place to stock up on liquor, wine, and beer.

The Sandpiper, Queen's Highway, across from Club Peace & Plenty (tel. 242/336-2084), features original serigraphs by Diane Minns, as well as a good selection of Bahamian arts and crafts, sponges, ceramics, watches, baskets, jewelry, books, postcards, and Bahamian straw baskets and other hand-crafted works. Diane designs and silk-screens T-shirts here in the shop, and she welcomes anyone to watch her work.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.