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5 Things You Can Only Buy In Jamaica!

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montego_bay_craft_market_craft_items5 Things You Can Only Buy In Jamaica

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

You may not be coming to Jamaica just for our souvenirs, but you likely won’t want to leave without a little memorabilia. We have already shared where to shop and even gave you some ideas on what to bring back with you. But can you believe me when I say there are some things you can only buy in Jamaica? I mean the chances are really slim for you to get these anywhere else. So if you are looking for items that will be truly unique to take back home with you, here are 5 items you can only buy in Jamaica.

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Blue Mountain Coffee

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I’m sure you have heard of this, and if you are a coffee lover, no doubt you have tried it. Our Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is regarded as one of the best and most expensive coffees in the world! It’s grown in the Blue Mountain region, which is nestled between Kingston and Port Antonio and is famed for its mild flavour and lack of bitterness. The high altitude, cool climate, and fertile soil contribute to its unique taste. If you have difficulty drinking straight black coffee, you may want to give ours a try.

I know you might be saying, “Well I have seen this in my local grocery store”, and I have no doubt that you have. But the truth is the chance that what you saw is authentic Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is, very slim despite what you see on the label. When you visit you have the incredible opportunity of getting it straight from the source, you can even take a tour of where it's grown and get a firsthand look at the coffee-making process.

Wood Carvings

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Jamaican wood carvings are a stunning example of local craftsmanship and creativity. Made from hardwoods like lignum vitae, cedar, and mahogany, these intricately detailed sculptures often reflect the island’s cultural symbols—such as animals, Rastafarian imagery, and famous figures from Jamaican history.

Whether you’re looking for a decorative piece for your home or a unique gift, these hand-carved items are a great choice. They can be found in craft markets across Jamaica, including in Kingston, Ocho Rios, and Montego Bay.

Charley’s JB Rum

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If you’re looking for something truly strong and distinctly Jamaican, Charley’s JB Rum, also known as John Crow Batty, will give you quite a buzz. This rum is one of the strongest in the world, with a staggering 160 proof (80% alcohol by volume). The name, “John Crow Batty,” is a nod to the fact that only the bravest—or those with the "stomach of a John Crow" (a vulture)—would dare to drink it.

Often mixed with fruity sodas like grapefruit soda or the popular energy drink Boom, this rum is a local favourite, though it’s definitely not for the faint of heart. If you're brave enough to try it, you'll have a story to tell for years to come. And, of course, this potent rum is available exclusively in Jamaica, making it a truly unique gift for those who enjoy spirits with a kick.

Calabash Wooden Bowls

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The calabash, a type of large fruit from the Crescentia cujete tree, is used by Jamaican artisans to create beautiful, hand-carved wooden bowls. These unique bowls are made from the fruit's hard outer shell and are often used in Jamaican households for serving food or as decorative pieces.

Because they are carved by hand, each calabash bowl is one-of-a-kind. They can also be transformed into other craft items such as jewellery or tote bags, but the bowls are by far the most popular.

Jamaican Dolls

For a cute and cuddly reminder of your time in Jamaica, handmade Jamaican dolls are an ideal souvenir. These soft, stuffed dolls are typically dressed in vibrant Jamaican clothing, like the iconic bandana plaid material that represents the country’s heritage. You can also find dolls that speak popular Jamaican patois phrases, adding an extra layer of authenticity and fun to these unique gifts.

These dolls come in all shapes and sizes, from soft plush figures to more rigid plastic ones, and can be found at craft markets and shops across the island. They make great gifts for kids and adults alike, offering a playful, cultural touch to any collection.

With these unique gifts in mind, you’ll definitely have something special to take home from Jamaica.

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References & Sources For 5 Things You Can Only Buy In Jamaica

  1. McLeod, S. (2017, October 13). 11 things you can only buy in Jamaica. Culture Trip. https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/jamaica/articles/11-things-you-can-only-buy-in-jamaica
  2. Strongest Jamaican Rum | The Top 5 Strongest Rums On The Island. (n.d.). My-Island-Jamaica.com. https://www.my-island-jamaica.com/strongest_jamaican_rum.html
  3. Strongest Jamaican Rum | The Top 5 Strongest Rums On The Island. (n.d.). My-Island-Jamaica.com. https://www.my-island-jamaica.com/strongest_jamaican_rum.html

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