Shopping

St. Vincent isn't a shopping destination, but while you're here, you might pick up some of the Sea Island cotton fabrics and clothing that are local specialties. Vincentian artisans also make pottery, jewelry, and baskets.

Since Kingstown consists of about 12 small blocks, you can walk, browse, and see about everything in a single morning. Try to be in town for the colorful, noisy Friday-morning market. You might not purchase anything, but you'll enjoy the riot of color.

If you're searching for regional souvenirs, head for St. Vincent Craftsmen's Centre, on Frenches Street in Kingstown (tel. 784/457-2516), a 4-minute walk from the wharf. Here islanders sell handmade items such as place or floor mats, along with straw products, local paintings, and St. Vincent dolls.

At Sprott Brothers, Homeworks, Bay Street (tel. 784/457-1121), you can buy clothing designed by Vincentians, along with an array of silk-screened T-shirts and even Caribbean-made furniture.

St. Vincent Philatelic Services, Dee's Service Building, Bay Street (tel. 784/457-1911), is the largest operating bureau in the Caribbean, and its issues are highly acclaimed by stamp collectors around the world.