Market in Ocho Rios
Market in Ocho Rios
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
3.0
323 reviews
Excellent
41
Very good
58
Average
117
Poor
59
Terrible
48
M T
9 contributions
Jan 2020 • Family
I was staying at Moon Palace Jamaica in Ocho Rios where I met a very kind lady who was selling accessories at the hotel for an event. She told me that she has also a shop at the craft market a few minutes walk outside of the resort. She explained she also braids hair and would love for us to visit her during our stay in Jamaica. She gave us her phone number and her store number. So, although many people in the reviews said not to go outside of the resort, we ventured to the market the next day and it was one of the best parts of our trip.
There we first looked around. The first few shops were not too pushy for they get easier business. After that, each shopkeeper asked us to come into their shop to see their wares. They are, of course, just trying to make a living, and because so few tourists from the resorts and cruise ships come here, they’re eager to invite everyone they see in. They are also happy to bargain, and we got some great souvenirs at several shops. After we were done shopping, we kept wandering and kindly said no to the many shopkeepers still inviting us in. But even after saying no, they were just happy with a handshake and a friendly conversation.
At the market, the nice lady we met at the hotel found us and gently invited us to come meet her niece and see her store. We went over, and I got my full hair braided at a very reasonable price, and we remembered to give a generous tip. While I was getting my hair braided we had a fun conversation with the women in the shops near that area; Patsy was the kind lady whose store number is 85, and Pril was her niece who had a shop to the left of Patsy’s. My mom and I had such a fun time, we went again the next day, which was sadly also our last. Patsy and her friends were very friendly and happily told us a lot about Jamaica and taught us some Jamaican Creole. Jamaica is a low-wage, high-cost economy, and even the resort employees don’t get paid well. With so few tourists leaving the resorts and cruise ships, the local merchants and craftsmen struggle to get by. I would really love it if when you go to the Ocho Rios Craft Market that you support the people there, rather than just shopping at hotel gift shops. Why go all the way to Jamaica if you’re not going to experience to the country and meet the people? So many of these reviews are very negative about these merchants who are just trying to get by, but I doubt any of these review writers actually took the time to get to know even one of these shopkeepers. So many of them are very kind and friendly. While I was there, I saw about 3 cruise ships very close to the market, but nobody from the boats came to the market. Instead they go to hotel gift shops and duty free stores with kitschy knick-knacks, none of which is a truly Jamaican experience.
In conclusion the people at the craft market are just trying to get by, and have a stable living. Once you get to know them they are really just looking out for themselves, so please be understanding and at least give it some thought and consider going to the Ocho Rios craft market. And when you’re there, just talk to them—you might even make some new friends like we did.
There we first looked around. The first few shops were not too pushy for they get easier business. After that, each shopkeeper asked us to come into their shop to see their wares. They are, of course, just trying to make a living, and because so few tourists from the resorts and cruise ships come here, they’re eager to invite everyone they see in. They are also happy to bargain, and we got some great souvenirs at several shops. After we were done shopping, we kept wandering and kindly said no to the many shopkeepers still inviting us in. But even after saying no, they were just happy with a handshake and a friendly conversation.
At the market, the nice lady we met at the hotel found us and gently invited us to come meet her niece and see her store. We went over, and I got my full hair braided at a very reasonable price, and we remembered to give a generous tip. While I was getting my hair braided we had a fun conversation with the women in the shops near that area; Patsy was the kind lady whose store number is 85, and Pril was her niece who had a shop to the left of Patsy’s. My mom and I had such a fun time, we went again the next day, which was sadly also our last. Patsy and her friends were very friendly and happily told us a lot about Jamaica and taught us some Jamaican Creole. Jamaica is a low-wage, high-cost economy, and even the resort employees don’t get paid well. With so few tourists leaving the resorts and cruise ships, the local merchants and craftsmen struggle to get by. I would really love it if when you go to the Ocho Rios Craft Market that you support the people there, rather than just shopping at hotel gift shops. Why go all the way to Jamaica if you’re not going to experience to the country and meet the people? So many of these reviews are very negative about these merchants who are just trying to get by, but I doubt any of these review writers actually took the time to get to know even one of these shopkeepers. So many of them are very kind and friendly. While I was there, I saw about 3 cruise ships very close to the market, but nobody from the boats came to the market. Instead they go to hotel gift shops and duty free stores with kitschy knick-knacks, none of which is a truly Jamaican experience.
In conclusion the people at the craft market are just trying to get by, and have a stable living. Once you get to know them they are really just looking out for themselves, so please be understanding and at least give it some thought and consider going to the Ocho Rios craft market. And when you’re there, just talk to them—you might even make some new friends like we did.
Written January 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
travelbob1
New Windsor, NY1,135 contributions
Dec 2021
With the pandemic the tourists were restricted to just this part of the city. Not all the stalls and shops were open, but enough to get find what interested us. The area was clean and easy to move about. The vendors were friendly and offered to negotiate. Many took the time to chat about themselves and take an interest in our journey to Jamaica.
Written December 22, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anna R
Copenhagen, Denmark1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Family
Craft Market Ocho Rios. You can buy stunning art made from different types of wood; Large figures, wall decor, bowls, animals, masks, plants - all are incredibly well made and detail oriented. In many other countries these men making them would be well- known artists, no doubt about that. When I was there there was a huge cruise ship in the harbour yet not a single tourist there. Naturally when I entered the market the vendors would try to convince me to see their stuff. This is how they make a living so I get it, just be kind and move on. Don´t get annoyed and don´t feel guilty for not buying. But if you want authentic Jamaican souvenirs buy from one of the crafts men or other artists making bags, paintings etc. Also please keep in mind if you want a bargain, that living in Jamaica isn´t cheap and this is their livelihood. Enjoy Jamaica!:-)
Written November 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ela03
Johnstone, UK369 contributions
Dec 2019 • Couples
This was our first visit to thos market our hotel ran a shuttle bus to Ochio Rios Market twice a day so it was the perfect way to see a little more of Jamaica and have chance to buy a few souvenirs.
We found a lot of the stalls sold similar items but some were varied with their items. This was our 4th trip to Jamaica so we felt quite comfortable and safe moving around market. We found all the sellers very friendly and truly grateful of a purchase, even those we didnt buy from were not pushy.
We enjoyed a few red stripes at market and explored some of town centre. We enjoyed our afternoon and would visit again.
We found a lot of the stalls sold similar items but some were varied with their items. This was our 4th trip to Jamaica so we felt quite comfortable and safe moving around market. We found all the sellers very friendly and truly grateful of a purchase, even those we didnt buy from were not pushy.
We enjoyed a few red stripes at market and explored some of town centre. We enjoyed our afternoon and would visit again.
Written January 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andrea GC S
1 contribution
Jul 2023 • Family
I was in Jamaica for the first ever reunion of my father’s family and we decided to go to a few touristy places as well as the old neighborhood, church, school, cemetery, etc. While enjoying the attractions at Ocho Rios, I took time to visit the market and buy some souvenirs such as clothing, jewelry, pens and pencils, purses and tote bags. I wish they had a website so we could purchase their wares abroad.
Written January 19, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SanderTheTravelMan
Antwerp, Belgium255 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
OCHO RIOS CENTRE (craft and fruitmarket)
We paid $35 to get from RIU Ocho Rios to the centre of ocho rios (single ride).
TOURIST TRAPS
- The cab driver dropped us at a mall where he probably gets commission from if you buy something. It’s a large shop from an Indian owner, they sell overpriced souvenirs, coffee and jewelry.
- We got a small tour from a guy who said he worked at our hotel. He showed us around and bought some spices for us. At first he told us everything was free but afterwards he tried to charge us $60 for the small tour. He got a bit mad when we didn’t want to pay the full amount. At the end we gave him $20 and we kept the spices. Don’t be afraid to say no to the locals.
- The cab driver dropped us of at some other tourist craft markets that weren’t that special.
- The average week income in Jamaica is around $45, so don’t give away all your money to a scammer.
RECOMMANDATIONS
- If you want to explore the city centre and the local markets, do it by yourself and don’t listen to your cab driver or any other locals. If you are lost, just ask directions to someone who seem normal/ decent. Most Jamaicans will help you with pleasure.
- TIP: look at the pictures to see an image of the cab prices in Ocho Rios.
We paid $35 to get from RIU Ocho Rios to the centre of ocho rios (single ride).
TOURIST TRAPS
- The cab driver dropped us at a mall where he probably gets commission from if you buy something. It’s a large shop from an Indian owner, they sell overpriced souvenirs, coffee and jewelry.
- We got a small tour from a guy who said he worked at our hotel. He showed us around and bought some spices for us. At first he told us everything was free but afterwards he tried to charge us $60 for the small tour. He got a bit mad when we didn’t want to pay the full amount. At the end we gave him $20 and we kept the spices. Don’t be afraid to say no to the locals.
- The cab driver dropped us of at some other tourist craft markets that weren’t that special.
- The average week income in Jamaica is around $45, so don’t give away all your money to a scammer.
RECOMMANDATIONS
- If you want to explore the city centre and the local markets, do it by yourself and don’t listen to your cab driver or any other locals. If you are lost, just ask directions to someone who seem normal/ decent. Most Jamaicans will help you with pleasure.
- TIP: look at the pictures to see an image of the cab prices in Ocho Rios.
Written January 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Christopher A
Allegany, NY47 contributions
Feb 2017 • Friends
One of the main concerns people express when visiting the Ocho Rios Market (or any market of it's kind in tourist areas of Jamaica) is that the market vendors are very pushy, harassing at times, to try to sell as many of their wares as possible. I felt uncomfortable my first time there (back in 1993). But try to understand what is happening here: These wonderful people are trying to support their families with what they're selling in these souvenir stalls. Yes, many of the stalls have the same items and some of them are mass produced and of poor quality. But if you take your time and really look, you can find some items that are good quality and unique. When you are purchasing t-shirts, ask the vendor for "hefty" or thick t-shirts. They will be a much better quality. Then before agreeing on a purchase price, consider what you would pay for the same item at your home town clothing store and then add a few dollars (Euros, etc), keeping in mind that this sale may be one of only a few the vendor makes that day. (Also, keep in mind the currency exchange rate. They all take US currency in addition to Jamaican dollars. Your rate won't be as good as at a cambio currency exchange but they will still take US dollars.) This way you are not being taken advantage of and you know you were fair with them. Don't make it a game to try to get them as low as they can go. They are often good people, with families to feed. But if you really do not want an item or even to go into their "shop", then keep walking and say "no thank you" politely but firmly. Enjoy your time!
Written November 27, 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
jzartman2009
Augusta, GA2 contributions
I was a little concerned as not many people made reviews of it. I still chose to go there. Ok, here is my explanation. First of all, I am about 5'2" 98lbs. So, with that I am a small framed girl. The people there are by no means mean to you, they just do not allow you to look at things as they will tell you I have better things, come to me instead. I honestly just wanted to look. If you in a "NICE" way tell them I am just looking, please let me look, they will leave you alone. I also had to realize that if I buy something from 1 place, it takes the money away from another. Go to the market for handmade crafts if that is what you are looking for. I got most of my gifts for others there. I am not good at bargaining. So, remember this.......they WILL go furthur down on the price if they want to sell it. Don't try and rip them off, but after I was out of money and told them I have no more money, the price of things went much lower than the things that I did buy. Tell them all you want to or can afford to pay. It was a great experience overall!
Written June 10, 2009
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
streetheart001
Regina, Canada3 contributions
Mar 2011
Five of us just got back from a week in Jamaica and we all went to this market. We shopped inside the market as well as some of the surronding stores. We experienced very little of what is mentioned in the other reviews, mind you we were not there when any ships were in port. Keep this in mind as you read on, the minimum wage in Jamaica is $500 US / month, this means a trip to the store is for the bare necesities only. So when 3000 people come to town it creates alot of excitement in the local population.
Do your research, know where and what you are getting into. If you come on a cruise, be aware how it affects the locals and that you are part of their earnings. You have choices if you don't want the hassles. Stay on the ship if you want or go on a tour arranged through the cruise company. And, most importantly loose the "tourists eyes", don't be all wild eyed and try and take in everything in the first 3 minutes. If you are approached, hold up your hand and say "no thank you", be frim but polite and mean it, keep walking. Don't shake hands as they will probably slip something into yours. Don't be afraid but be aware of what you are doing, where you are and who is around you.
This being said, we found everything we wanted. I was looking for a bottle of Appleton 30 year old rum. In one shop the clerk offered to call another shop. I agreed and a quick trip outside the gated strip mall, I had my prize. I should mention that the gate is not like a jail, it is just a metal pole that can be raised and lowered, it is to keep traffic out and there is a unobstructed walkway for people.
If you really want to a truly uniqure shopping experience, in many of the stores they offer ice cold Red Stripe beer; don't pay more than $3 US for one. Then continue shopping beer in hand ;) Barter for just about everything, just pick a fair price and head for it. I recommend 30% to 50% of asking price. I found that the 30% mark usually got me what I wanted and on my way faster. Yes the odd vendor will hold firm at maybe 10% off, just walk away see if they follow and if the don't give it to you for what you are willing to pay find it in another shop and try again.
Be aware you are in their country and have to play by their rules, but they want you and others to come. So, Decide for yourself.
Do your research, know where and what you are getting into. If you come on a cruise, be aware how it affects the locals and that you are part of their earnings. You have choices if you don't want the hassles. Stay on the ship if you want or go on a tour arranged through the cruise company. And, most importantly loose the "tourists eyes", don't be all wild eyed and try and take in everything in the first 3 minutes. If you are approached, hold up your hand and say "no thank you", be frim but polite and mean it, keep walking. Don't shake hands as they will probably slip something into yours. Don't be afraid but be aware of what you are doing, where you are and who is around you.
This being said, we found everything we wanted. I was looking for a bottle of Appleton 30 year old rum. In one shop the clerk offered to call another shop. I agreed and a quick trip outside the gated strip mall, I had my prize. I should mention that the gate is not like a jail, it is just a metal pole that can be raised and lowered, it is to keep traffic out and there is a unobstructed walkway for people.
If you really want to a truly uniqure shopping experience, in many of the stores they offer ice cold Red Stripe beer; don't pay more than $3 US for one. Then continue shopping beer in hand ;) Barter for just about everything, just pick a fair price and head for it. I recommend 30% to 50% of asking price. I found that the 30% mark usually got me what I wanted and on my way faster. Yes the odd vendor will hold firm at maybe 10% off, just walk away see if they follow and if the don't give it to you for what you are willing to pay find it in another shop and try again.
Be aware you are in their country and have to play by their rules, but they want you and others to come. So, Decide for yourself.
Written April 15, 2011
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dennis B
Findlay, OH25 contributions
Dec 2018 • Family
A lot of the reviews are correct - these folks are aggressive when it comes to getting your money for the wares the offer. For me, I did't mind a bit. I took my wife and son through this and while at first they were aggressive, we worked our way toward the back of the market and met with some very great, everyday people. We did buy a good deal of stuff for not only ourselves but also stuff for those at home. Mr Clive, the sandman at the back of the market - what a heck of a guy. HE and I sat together for at least 30 minutes as I watched him finish a project he had started sometime ago. He was AWESOME. There was a young lady there with a 3 month old baby who let me hold him and we chatted for a good 20 minutes with them. So sweet. Met the young ladies mother who was also very sweet. We had run out of Jamaican dollars and well, we wanted to buy somethings from these folks so told them we would return which we did 2 days later. Mr. Clive had finished his piece with some input from my son so we felt it was a little unique to him and we bought that (Mr. Clive was not there at the time which was a a little disappointing for me as I was looking forward to chatting with him some more) but met the young ladies mother again and we chatted with her and another lady (a vendor) and made some additional purchases from them as well. One can be very shell shocked if not prepared to say no but that is all it takes. For those who say stay in the resort or stay on the ship......why even go to places like this is you are not willing to experience the local life? I'd much rather spend my money with real folks who may or may not be struggling everyday than keep the money all tied up in the resort or boat.
Written January 12, 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
How many flea markets and where are they in Ocho Rios Jamaica
Written February 13, 2019
Hi Charlene,
We found only one while we ere there. It is a good sized craft market. I believe it is called the Ocho Rios craft market and if you search for it say on Google, they do use an address but we found it rather easily. From the main road coming from St Ann's turn left onto Main Street and the market is about half mile on left. I would recommend parking in the parking lot next to the market and enter the market from the parking lot entrance instead of the road side entrance. Look for Mr. Calvin, the sandman, and the folks around his booth sere excellent.
Written February 13, 2019
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