Happy Holiday Hunting! A Bahamian Gift Guide 2016
Although most people know The Bahamas for its stunning beaches and year long sunshine, it also has a hidden treasure trove of amazing and talented entrepreneurs, artists, designers, and craftsmen. Last year, we uncovered many Unique Bahamian Holiday Finds that we carefully curated for your island inspired celebrations, so we’ve done it again and are sharing our insights for authentically Bahamian gifts this holiday season that we hope even the hardest to please on your list absolutely loves. Happy holiday hunting!
1. Shell Ornaments By The Plait Lady
Known best for their artisanal straw work, we especially love this time of year when The Plait Lady releases Christmas decor in natural fibres, driftwood, and shells! Among our favourites are conch shell, sand dollar, and starfish tree ornaments available at their Paradise Island boutique.
Starting at $10.00, www.facebook/com/theplaitlady
2. Custom Creations 242 Gift Boxes & Packages
These custom wooden boxes can be personalized with initials, quotes, dates, and images, perfect for even the hardest to please people in your life. They can be filled with fun gift items or festive treats (think a bottle of John Watling’s Rum!) to suit whomever receives these handcrafted gift boxes.
Starting at $45.00, www.facebook.com/customcreations242
3. ‘Catch Da Cat’ by Photographer, Alessandro Sarno
A one-of-a-kind coffee table book entitled, Catch Da Cat, makes a super gift for anyone that appreciates the beauty of The Bahamas. Alessandro Sarno’s lifestyle photography captures the amazing details of people, wildlife, and landscapes inhabiting one of our Southern Family Islands, Cat Island.
Starting at $69.00, www.thelonesomephotographer.com
4. Bahari Bahamian Fashion Line
Bahamian made clothing has never been done quite like this. Bahari’s recently launched clothing line is 100% Bahamian owned and its designs have taken the country by storm. Available in a variety of tropical prints and styles, Bahari clothing is a great option for the trend-setters on your list.
Starting at $45.00, www.shopbahari.com
5. Therapeutic Soaps & Body Oils From The Craft Cottage
Infused with native ingredients and other natural oils, these therapeutic soaps smell great while helping cleanse and detoxify! Treat someone special to a luxurious experience by gifting an array of body bars and oils by Orisha sold at Craft Cottage Bahamas.
Starting at $8.00, www.craftcottagebahamas.com
6. Lionfish Jewelry At Bahamas Art & Handicraft
Not only is it a great tasting fish, but it makes a statement too! Lionfish spines have been transformed into striking jewelry in a variety of designs at Bahama Art and Handicraft, including: earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
Starting at $15.00, www.facebook.com/bahamaartandhandicraft
7. Boutique Chocolate Sets From Graycliff Chocolatier
Whether that person on your list has been naughty or nice, these decadent Bahamian-made gourmet treats will surely sweeten them up! Available in downtown Nassau’s Graycliff Chocolatier Boutique (recently hailed by Fodor’s Travel as the #5 chocolate shop in the world!) or in the international departures terminal of the airport- you won’t want to leave the island without a box or two.
Starting at $10.00, www.graycliff.com
8. Vida Cayo Bahamian Currency Sandals
Great for the beach or casual outings, these uniquely Bahamian sandals slip perfectly in your loved one’s stocking! Available in a number of designs, representing our colourful local currency, Vida Cayo flip flops make a super gift for men, women, or children.
Starting at $25.00, www.vidacayo.com
9. Authentic Bahamian Cooking Class & Lunch Gift Certificate
Learn all about Bahamian cuisine and cooking techniques from a local chef. Enjoy a fantastic 3-course feast with wine in a 5-star setting. Your loved ones will thank you for giving the gift of an unforgettable experience when you purchase a gift certificate online for friends or family to make use of their very own private Bahamian Cooking Class & Lunch! PS: Our e-certificates never expire.
Starting at $155.00, www.trubahamianfoodtours.com
10. Pumpkin The Raccoon Children’s Book
We love Pumpkin- even more than the latte and pie- Pumpkin The Raccoon is everyone’s favourite little fella! Explore this wonderful children’s book filled with great photos of the domesticated raccoon living in Nassau with his two Royal Bahamian Potcake friends.
Starting at $10.00, www.pumpkintheraccoon.com
11. Island Inspired Androsia Print Stuffed Animals
These fun Bahamian stuffed animals are primarily sewn with Androsia Batik Fabric, which is handmade on the island of Andros in The Bahamas. Nature and sea life are these sweet toys’ inspiration, but they come in a variety of vibrant colours kids will adore!
Starting at $15.00, www.islandinspireddesigns.com
12. A Gift Basket Of Genuinely Bahamian Products
Build your own special gift basket for the home cook or foodie in your life! Genuinely Bahamian Products are all made with native ingredients- in small batches- and are available for purchase at their boutiques on Paradise Island and on Bay Street in downtown Nassau.
Starting at $5.00, www.genuinelybahamian.com
13. Nadia Irena Fine Jewelry & Accessories
Nadia Irena’s fine jewelry is handmade in The Bahamas, often incorporating metalwork, leather and beaded materials. These beautiful creations offer both subtle, decisive and minimal lines or bold statement pieces with fluid organic shapes to suit all tastes.
Starting at $35.00, www.nadiairena.com