The best fashion and gift stores Rodrigues

Run with heart by Louis, a member of the family of writer Jean-Marie Le Clézio, this pretty gift shop offers products that are different from the average one, such as handmade magnets, ceramic paintings, typical Rodrigues canvases, T-shirts with funny messages, decorative stationery, costume jewellery, etc. The items offered and the rustic décor of the shop (especially the custom-made wooden furniture) give the place its identity.

The style of the store, clear and neat, contrasts with the charming but busy clutter of the other stores in town. It is the initiative of an association of men and women from Rodrigues who want to promote local know-how. The main and exclusive products at the origin of the company: amazing bags made with recycled packaging (food boxes and briquettes of all kinds). Also hats, dresses, painted basketry, handmade products with a capital A. New: pretty silver jewelry with beads.

On the road leading to Pointe Coton and Saint-François, at the entrance of the village of Roche Bon Dieu, stands this pretty store which enjoys a fine reputation. It offers a selection of basketry and handicrafts, made with great care by a dozen ladies of the village - baskets (mostly), hats, trays, etc. Most of the items are woven from vacoa or vetiver fibers using a technique that has been passed down from generation to generation. 50 meters further on the right, a stall sells other woven objects and jars.

Cuter than the average, this charming shop sells hand-made articles: pouches, crochet purses, paintings on ceramics, dish towels printed with Rodriguan recipes, basketry made of vacoas, vetiver or aloes, etc. Anxious to put forward the local know-how and to make it known to the travellers, the association only works with the best Rodriguan craftsmen, which explains the small selection of products.