Best places to shop this Thanksgiving

Cute beach totes from The Mercantile @ Grand Cayman Marriott Beach Resort

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Nope, not Christmas (not yet, anyway). We're talking about Thanksgiving and the amazing Black Friday sales that it brings (the Kirk Freeport Black Friday Weekend Sale is the biggest in history!). If you're fortunate enough to find yourself in the Cayman Islands for the holidays, and fancy a break from the pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and amazing Cayman activities, here's where you can find some highly effective retail therapy and pick up some great deals for loved ones just in time for Christmas.

According to WorldAtlas, the average person spends just over a full working week getting ready for Christmas and the majority of that time is dedicated to trawling the malls, markets, and internet looking for that perfect present.

So, if you can relate, and this year, you’d like to avoid the stress of holiday shopping, read on.

Here’s a selection of unique gift ideas for the whole family that will leave everyone with the warm and fuzzies, rather than an awkward exchange of, “Er..,this is, um…great, thanks.”

Organic skincare from No.11 Spa

Let’s start with momma bear. The matriarch deserves some serious TLC and what better way to show your appreciation than with an indulgent box of organic skincare goodies from No.11 Spa, complete with a gift certificate for a bespoke facial, to really set the tone for a luxury pampering giftbox. Add the new Dior Rouge Ultra Care lipstick in her favourite shade for the perfect lip-look (available at La Perfumerie II), and top it off with an eye-catching piece of Swarovski sparkle (we love their Moon and Star pendants for that super chic layering effect), available from Kirk Freeport at The Strand and Kirk Freeport Bayshore Mall. For the extra wow factor, ditch the usual gift box in favour of the new must-have Guirlande de Cartier tote (available from the new Cartier Boutique), an iconic showstopper, just like Mom. She’ll be so superstar glam, you may have to create her own Instagram account.

Luxury shopping in Grand Cayman

Can’t decide what to get Dad? We find we’re usually heading in the right direction with a sophisticated drinkable gift. Insider tip: Visit the in-house sommelier at Jacques Scott Wines & Spirits Fine Wine Retail Store for his recommendation. We often stop by to see what’s new and his recommendations never disappoint. You tell him what you like, and he’ll find you the perfect match.

Go one step further and make Dad’s gift experiential too, with a bottle of South West Collective’s signature hot sauce - aptly named “Death Sauce” - homemade with local scotch bonnets. Bring the heat! It’s deliciously addictive.

Island Naturals gift boxes do the hard work for you

For grandma (or any leading ladies in your life for that matter), you can’t go wrong with 2019’s rose quartz trend. Not only is the pastel hue soft and elegant, the shimmering rose quartz is a symbol for unconditional love. Island Naturals offers a striking pair of rose quartz earrings encased in a gold setting, perfect for gift box inclusion. Wrap this together with a stylish pair of VamVas canvas sneakers, only at The Mercantile. These cruelty-free shoes are perfect for a comfortable yet stylish stroll on the waterfront - opt for maroon for a standout look.

Lifestyle must-haves from The Mercantile

If you’re buying for the more adventurous type, a paddle board will earn you some mega Brownie points. The super knowledgable staff at Waterman can help kit you out with everything you need to be the ultimate gift-giving hero this year. From Stand Up Paddleboards to kite gear and short boards, they have pretty much everything. Waterman and Bluewave are stockists for leading surf brands including VISSLA, Hurley, Roxy, Ripcurl, Quicksilver and RVCA.

Cayman’s best surf shop has everything you need to hit the beach in style

For an adventure they’ll never forget, give the gift of exploring our underwater realm. Living The Dream Divers offers a discovery scuba course for beginners. The perfectly tailored 3-hour introductory session will give a taste for the underwater world and a fun day out. Nestle this inside a Cayman t-shirt made from recycled plastic bottles, also from Living The Dream Divers. These unique t-shirts are eco-friendly, super stylish and extremely comfortable.

Say hello to Kirby. Small groups and personalized service make Living The Dream Divers one of the best dive operators in Cayman

Before we…wrap up (ahem), we want to mention that it’s not just what’s on the inside - the outside counts too. Christmas wrapping sets the tone for your gift-giving. It’s the first impression your gift makes, sitting expectantly under the tree. This year get creative and sustainable with your gift wrapping. Recycle old magazines and newspapers into customized wrapping paper for that special someone. Forgo the bow and add the finishing touch with a sea-grape leaf, local florals and shells or handmade wooden decorations from Pure Art or Cayman Craft Market to support our local artists. These are surprisingly easy ways to personalize your gifts, show off your creativity and earn you eco-elf status.

PS: When you’re out on your shopping hunt, don’t forget to tell the sales person The Beach sent you!