As a US territory, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands has the duty free status that is reflected in all prices. Tourists receive a higher customs allowance than other Caribbean islands, and unset precious stones, as well as locally produced goods are duty free. Also, there is no sales tax, not only for retail shopping, but also for restaurants and attractions.
Charlotte Amalie hosts hundreds of stores where you can find just about anything: jewelry, watches, collectibles, fragrances, liquor, souvenirs, local art, you name it. The shopping areas are spread all over St.Thomas island: the downtown historic district (Main Street, Waterfront, side streets, alleys and passage ways), Haven Sight (at the main cruise ship dock), Yacht Haven Grande (at Yacht Marina), Crown Bay (at alternate cruise ship dock) and Red Hook (at the ferry to St. John).
Havensight Mall - located at the main cruise ship dock. In full season there could be more than 3 cruise ships docked, so imagine the flux of people coming down the mall for duty free shopping. Average number of passengers 2000/ship :)
And here is another slide with Havensight Mall pics and clips. As you can tell, I like to shop and mingle with tourists from all over the world.
Ohhh... and I sell my art pieces and jewelry in some of those cute stores. But that's another aspect of my half-time living here, in St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.
The last slide compiles a few photos of Yacht Haven Grande, where you can experience the most luxurious shopping experience on the island.
I hope you enjoyed my slides and if you ever visit St. Thomas, USVI, shop with confidence, there are lots of amazing stores there!