It's obvious even before you enter the Lighthouse that it is no ordinary souvenir shop. The first thing you notice about it is the wonderful aroma. Second, the eye drifts to the front shelves, where row upon row of handcrafted candles are displayed. Scented candles are responsible for the lovely smell. Beach sand candles and seashell candles are uniquely Bahamian souvenirs. There are other souvenirs at this store, if you have the urge to buy smaller gifts for friends back home. Stock up on T-shirts, hats, shot glasses and other inexpensive trinkets.

The Bahamas are well known for their production of handmade straw products. At this market, browsers will find countless vendors peddling a cavalcade of handbags, placemats, hats, baskets and more, all made from straw. Non-straw items include T-shirts, mahogany and native pine carvings, as well as a wide selection of costume jewelry. Merchants will expect haggling and welcome customers who are willing to haggle. It is a local tradition. The market is located behind the International Bazaar.

The sign out front proclaims this to be "Freeport's Most Recommended" shop. Indeed, if you're looking for Bahamian memorabilia and souvenirs, this store seems to offer the lowest prices, making it a must-visit. T-shirts are 4/US$10, key chains are 6/US$5, and coffee mugs are 4/US$10. The shelves are filled to bursting with an amazing array of other items, including perfume, rainsticks, figurines, dolls and magnets. Sandals, board shorts and other beachwear is also available. You'll be able to buy something for each of your friends and family members, and still walk away with money in your pocket.

Although this used to be an antique shop, it now carries all manner of merchandise. Chinese eggs, ceramics, copper music boxes, and intricate candles are just a few of the items for sale. The front counters display 14-karat gold and sterling silver jewelry. Stunning laser foil wall hangings with iridescent colours on a black setting that depict everything from King Tut to marine fantasies. The motto of the store is "something different." Indeed, if you're looking for an unusual item that is different than anything you've seen in the Bahamas, this is the place to visit. On Sundays, the shop opens at 10a.

Even nonsmokers should stop by this store if they're in the neighborhood. Smokers should make a point of getting to the neighborhood. The store has gorgeous statuettes made of ebony and soapstone, rich Cuban coffees, incense holders and other unique gift items on display. But let's not forget the main attraction! Cuban cigars, specialty cigarettes, pipes and other items are available here. You can find any kind of tobacco you desire, from a pack of Marlboros to a decadent US$15 stogie.

Women's clothing, much of it imported from Greece, is for sale at this store. Daytime garments are long, flowing and pastel, while eveningwear is short and sassy. If you're feeling daring, you might want to pick up a fluorescent thong bikini here. Clothing is not the main attraction, however. What is billed as "the largest selection of shell souvenirs in the Bahamas" is displayed in the front of the store. Shell ornaments and statuettes make excellent gifts, while conch shells, starfish and coral are lovely reminders of time spent in the tropics.

Located in Downtown Freeport, this unassuming coffee shop also hosts a cute boutique gift store within its confines. While the Starbucks coffee and delicious smoothies served here go a long way in putting a smile on people's faces, it is the gift store that really takes the cake. At incredibly inexpensive prices, find interesting Bahamian curios, souvenirs and gift cards for every occasion. The Art of Giving is located within the Seventeen Center, and also features outdoor seating.