Dominica shopping can be a fun and wonderful social and cultural experience. The bigger shops in Dominica are located in the capital Roseau. The town of Roseau is relatively small and is not as commercialized as other neighboring island, but does offer a unique and different shopping experience. For the visitor in Dominica, shopping for souvenir items local crafts and art are available at the local craft and produce markets. Dominica duty free shipping is limited to just a few shops and boutiques that are located on the main shopping area in the capital. What is familiar about Dominica shopping is the colorful and true Caribbean atmosphere.

Though the primary languages of Dominica are English and tehlcoal creole, many major shops in Dominica that offer tourist services and products have bi lingual employees. Most locals understand French owing to the fact that we were once a colony of France and speak a local dialect known as French Creole. The fact that the shop attendants are most likely versed in a foreign language will make for an easier Dominica shopping experience.

The local Currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC), which as it names suggests is used on other islands in the eastern Caribbean. The EC Dollar exchanges at EC$2.70 to US$1. Other currencies which are accepted at the banks on the island include Canadian Dollars, European Euro, and Great Britain Pounds. Traveler's checques are also accepted. All banks on the island accept major credit cards such as Visa, American Express, and Master Card among others. For quick withdrawals or other such transactions there are numerous Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) available around the town, namely the National Bank of Dominica at their Hillsborough Street Branch, Canefield Branch and Independence Street Branch, The Royal Bank of Canada on the Dame Eugenia Charles Boulevard, The Scotia Bank on Hillsborough Street and The First Caribbean International Bank on Old Street in Roseau. Most Dominica shops will accept the local EC dollar, and US, sterling and Euro currencies. Almost all major stores and duty free shops accept all major credit cards, while street vendors and market vendors may not.

Shopping in Dominica for souvenirs is truly a unique experience. Souvenirs have not been commercialized therefore one can find lots of one of a kind pieces here. There are a lot of craft items on display made by local artists at inexpensive prices. A must have though are the products by the native Carib Indians. These indigenous people pride themselves in making art from natural resources like their forefathers before them. They work with straw, wood, coconut branches and husk and banana leaves. Their products include beautiful handmade straw bags, jewelry and wall hangings. Souvenir shopping in Dominica is available in the area designated The Old Market Plaza and at every tourist site on the island.

For that person who is looking for a T-shirt or wants to send a post card with pictures of this wonderful island there are small souvenir shops in Dominica's capital where such purchases can be made. Post cards can be posted at the General Post office located on the Dame Eugenia Charles Boulevard.

Duty free shopping is expanding there are a few more shops providing the service, these include, Ashbury's located at the Fort Young Hotel, Baroon's International at the Prevost Cinemall, Land Leather and Pirate duty free shops. These Dominica shops carry wide array of luxury goods such as perfumes, jewelry, cigars, and eyewear, liquors fine international and Caribbean rums among others. The goods at these shops are duty free as their name suggest carries no sales and importation taxes.
When shopping for food in Dominica there are a number of supermarkets carrying a wide array of local and imported goods. Payments can be made in eastern Caribbean Dollars and United States Dollars. Some accept credit cards. For a truly colorful and live Caribbean experience one should visit the Roseau Market on a Saturday where local vendors sell fresh local produce and spices. It has a carnival atmosphere.

It is important to note that Shops open at eight o'clock (8:00 a.m) in the morning and close at four o'clock (4:00 p.m) in the afternoon.

Dominica shopping is not fast tracked like other modern cities but is a great experience. The city itself is not very crowded so one can move about with little hindrance and can be guaranteed that if lost help can be obtained from any friendly, helpful local. The shopper can get an opportunity to communicate with the artists and locals and learn a lot about the gifts being bought. One is also guaranteed that every gift bought and wrapped on the Nature Island is full of sunshine, love and warmth of its lovely people. Dominica Shopping, a memorable experience.